Sometimes hiking is challenging. Grueling, even.
And sometimes it is a relaxing stroll that allows you to notice the sharp scent of pine needles, the smallest, most delicate flower petals, and the rushing sounds of a creek. All without breaking a sweat.
Copeland Falls is just such a “hike.” At just under 1 mile round trip with a very modest 75 foot elevation gain, the trail is perfect for families with young children, grandparents, or anyone wanting to get outside and enjoy a lovely set of falls without having to work too hard for it.
While camping at Olive Ridge over Labor Day weekend, my parents, sister and brother-in-law joined us at our camp site for lunch, and then we made the short drive to the Wild Basin entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Being a busy holiday weekend, the ranger in the booth advised us that we may not be able to find parking.
Fortunately, hikers that had hit the trail early to destinations further up the mountain were now returning to their vehicles, and we were able to find precious parking at the trailhead.
There is plenty to keep kids busy having fun on this short hike.
The weather was a very agreeable 70 degrees, and the high clouds and tall pines shaded us from the heat of the sun. The trail rose gently along North St. Vrain Creek, and at .35 miles we reached Lower Copeland Falls.
Lower Copeland Falls
Photo by Larry W. Jones
Here the creek falls about 3 feet from a wide slab of rock and spreads out into a shallow pool with areas for rock hopping and cooling your toes.
Another tenth of a mile up the trail we reached Upper Copeland Falls, a series of falls where the creek rushes and foams over and around boulders and fallen trees, then finally sails over a large rock ledge to complete the set.
Doyle and Brogan on a section of Upper Copeland Falls
Me and Mom
We explored the many rock outcroppings along the falls, and stayed a while to enjoy them.
There are so many places to sit and enjoy the falls. Bring lunch!
Further up the trail are Calypso Cascades, and Ouzel Falls, both larger and more impressive. But that could wait for another day. It was refreshing to explore and enjoy this one beautiful spot on earth, without having to hurry on up the trail.