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Trailblazers are ready for Ouzel Falls. [photo by Lin]
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| Vicki, Mike, Jeff, Hong Li, Jan, John, Edith, Nicole, Felix, Ron, Mona, Grey, Gene, Neil, Eidth, John B, Sonny, Carol, Robyn, Lin and Ann. |
Ouzel Falls trip report by Lin. On Aug 24, we arrived at the YMCA, I stopped by the Mountain Center and spoke with Sunday Jeff
for some last-minute advice, maps, trail information, and shuttle details. Jeff recommended we get to the trailhead no later
than 7:30 a.m. Rocky Mountain National Park sits at a high elevation, averaging above 9,000 feet. To give our bodies time to
adjust, we chose an easier and shorter hike for our first day, Ouzel Falls, a perfect introduction to the park. Based on his
suggestion, I ordered sack breakfasts for everyone, and we planned to leave Eagle Cliff Lodge by 7:00am.
Mike and Lin are talking to Sunday Jeff. [photo by Robyn]
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On Aug 25 by 6:45am, everyone had gathered in the parking lot, and at 7:00am sharp we hit the road. Rodney had arrived at
the YMCA early, and we were so glad to see him. The drive to Ouzel Falls took about half an hour, and we had no trouble
finding parking spaces. After a quick group photo, we set off.
Anna and Ron were waiting at trailhead for us. [photo by Lin]
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Edith asked- should I take my raincoat?, Gene said - YES. [photo by Lin]
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Rodney is testing the Radio - Testing, Testing, can you hear me? [photo by Lin]
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Coming from hot Phoenix weather, the conditions felt like paradise—clear skies, cool temperatures, and a gentle breeze.
The trail snaked through shady forest, opened to mountain views, and followed the sound of rushing water. Around each bend was
another beautiful scene.
Our plan is hike to Quzel Falls, however, some of us are planning to go to Ouzel Lake, [photo by Vicki]
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Take a picture before continues. [photo by Vicki]
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Our leader - Rodney. [photo by Vicki]
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Along the way we passed Copeland Falls and Lower Copeland Falls. The group’s excitement and the cool mountain air carried everyone
forward a bit too quickly—I had to call out a few reminders to slow down and savor the views. Some almost missed the beauty of
Lower Copeland Falls!
The sound of Rushing water is like the music in the ears. [photo by Lin]
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Haha,theree are Roby, Mike, John and Ann. [photo by Lin]
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Our hikers truly enjoy the cool weather. [photo by Lin]
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Stop and enjoy the waterfall. [photo by Lin]
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More waterfall. [photo by Lin]
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Happy girls post a picture at Lower Copeland Falls. [photo by Lin]
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At last, we reached Ouzel Falls. The cascading water was the true highlight of the hike. We lingered there,
enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, taking photos, and having snacks at the bridge.
Some in our group—Felix, Mona, Anna, Ron, Jan, Jan D., Laurie, and Neil—were so energized they decided to
continue for extra miles.
Ouzel Falls. [photo by Robyn]
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John is happy and enjoy the moment. [photo by Lin]
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Yes, we had selfies. [photo by Robyn]
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Hi Guys, do not forget to hike up to see the Ouzel Falls. [photo by Lin]
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On the way back, we met another hiker, Mohammed, who had started later but was moving at full speed. Later, the extra-mile crew
told me he had passed them all and hiked like a champion.
Vicki - are you ready?! Grey asked. [photo by Lin]
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Less than half a mile from the trailhead, light rain began to fall. I was glad to slip on my rain jacket.
After so many years in Arizona, any rain feels worth celebrating! I’ve been to Rocky Mountain National Park twice before
in different seasons, and I’ve learned that rain in the high mountains is almost unavoidable. But it always feels like a
gift—every drop is gold from the sky.
The happy hour gang - Robyn, Nicole, Mona, Edith, Neil, Felix, Grey, Gene, Rodney, Jeff, Hong Li, Jan, Carol, and Mike. [photo by Lin]
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Back at the trailhead, everyone was in high spirits, chatting and laughing in the parking lot. Before long, someone
suggested a happy hour stop—beer or wine after a hike? Why not! Hong Li and Jeff recommended Estes Park Brewery, and after a
quick call for reservations, we were on our way. The food was excellent, the service friendly, and the company priceless.
Thank you, Grey, for treating me to a Reuben sandwich!
Lets us order food, we are hungry. [photo by Lin]
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It is Brewery, let us order beer. [photo by Lin]
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The Easte Park Brewery. [photo by Lin]
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The day had fantastic weather, beautiful scenery, wonderful company, and a great meal to end it with.
It was the perfect reminder of why we love getting out on the trail, and why we love our AZ Trailblazers Hiking Club.
It is the YMCA. [photo by Lin]
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It is raining, It is Raining, It is Happy Trails to everyone. [photo by Lin]
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