Trail Description

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Parika Lake is a beautiful, isolated alpine lake located just west of Rocky Mountain National Park. Though the Bowen-Baker Trailhead is located within Park boundaries, the trail to Parika Lake quickly crosses the boundary and into the Never Summer Wilderness Area. Despite its unwelcoming name, the less-traveled Never Summer Wilderness is home to a wealth of biological diversity and some of the best scenery accessible within or from Rocky Mountain National Park.

The trail begins on a mild but steady grade through a densely wooded and vegetated forest. After 1 mile the forest opens and diversifies, accented by aspens, wildflowers and rocky outcroppings. The trail pushes along a moderate grade through pleasant but unspectacular scenery until reaching the Grand Ditch service road at about the 3.25 mile mark. Cross the service road (veering slightly left) and continue along the main trail.

From here the trail flattens out as it travels along the north side of a spectacular meadow framed by towering peaks to the southwest. In .35 miles the trail reaches a split for the Baker Gulch Trail (which leads to Baker Pass - 11,253'). Bear left and continue towards Parika Lake. The trail crosses a small stream on a makeshift log bridge, then another on a smaller but ageing footbridge. These are very short bridges but may prove tricky for those with heavy or imbalanced packs.

The final 1.25 miles are stunning. From the split the trail begins a steady, moderately strenuous climb through an exceptionally attractive spruce and fir forest. Small damp meadow openings promote an abundance of wildflower growth, and the thinning forest allows for dramatic views of nearby peaks and valleys. Approximately .7 miles beyond the Baker Gulch split is a small but pretty pond (about 75 yards off to the trail's right); a quick and worthwhile diversion for the return trip.

The trail grade levels off as you pass through treeline and approach the lake. Parika Lake sits in an alpine basin just below Parika Peak (12,394'), Fairview Mountain (12,246') and an unnamed peak (12,253'). Views back down valley are exceptional. A well-maintained social trail circles the lake's south shore and leads to Parika Peak.

Worth Noting

• Given Parika Lake's lack of noteriety, this is an ideal choice during busy summer months.


• Hunting is allowed in portions of the Never Summer Wilderness. Be cognizant of regulations and aware of hunters in the area.

Directions to Trailhead

From Grand Lake, head north on US 34 to the Kawuneeche Entrance Station of Rocky Mountain National Park. After paying the entrance fee, continue north for 6.7 miles and turn left (west) at the sign for Bowen-Baker Trailhead. Parking is readily available at the main trailhead lot or you can drive another .8 miles to the 'Hunters Access' trailhead where parking is very limited and generally reserved for hunters during season.

If coming from the east side of the park from Estes Park across Trail Ridge Road, the Bowen Baker trailhead is approx 10.6 miles south of Milner Pass on the west side of US 34 / Trail Ridge Road.

Contact Information

Visitor Information:
970-586-1206

Backcountry:
970-586-1242

Campground Reservations:
800-365-2267