Ouzel Lake

Compelling scenery, prized fishing and thinner crowds distinguish the hike to Ouzel Lake. A subalpine forest culled by recent fire yields sweeping views of the Wild Basin Area, while illustrating the natural recovery and ecological succession of plant communities in a burn area. Following North St Vrain Creek, the trail begins on a groomed path lined by lodgepole, fir and aspen. Two short spurs lead to Lower and Upper Copeland Falls (.35 and .45 miles, respectively), and are worthwhile detours if time permits.