The southeast corner of Rocky Mountain National Park boasts one of the loveliest portions in the park known as Wild Basin. The trails in this area access a wide variety of landscapes including gurgling mountain streams and fast-flowing falls, cascades and an alpine lake.

In hiking terms, the 1.8-mile trail to Calypso Cascades is categorized as easy! Those writing these descriptions don’t seem to take into account that the starting elevation is over 8,500 feet above sea level and that the hike is upwards!

The trail follows the course of North St. Vrain Creek as it flows out of the rugged high country and snowfields in the wild corner of Rocky Mountain National Park. After about 0.4 mile the trail splits – one side leads to five different backcountry camping sites which visitors can reserve.

The left-hand trail leads south towards Calypso Cascades along the Finch Lake Trail system. After crossing a large log bridge spanning North St. Vrain Creek, the trail follows Cony Creek to the site of Calypso Cascades. The waters of Cony Creek tumble over boulders and fallen trees in a moss-covered landscape. What makes Calypso Cascades unique are the Calypso Orchids, also known as Pink Lady Slippers, that, sadly, were not yet in bloom at the time of my hike.

En route to Calypso Cascades.

The photo opportunities were certainly worth the 1.8 mile hike to the Calypso Cascades!

So much easier going down hill!