Parika Lake (#29.2)


Length: 1.1 miles from the Baker Gulch Trail junction, which is 5.3 miles from the Bowen Baker Trailhead. DISTANCES ARE ONE-WAY.

Elevation: 10,440 feet at the junction of the Baker Gulch Trail and Parika Lake Trail; 12,000 feet at the saddle between Fairview Mountain and Parika Peak

Trail Description: The Parika Lake Trail travels through some of the wildest and most primitive country in the Sulphur Ranger District.

Download a trail summary here.

View a trail map here.

At a Glance

Fees: An entrance fee is required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park.
Permit Info: No permit required to camp overnight in the Never Summer Wilderness.
Usage: Medium
Best Season: Hiking conditions are best from July through September.
Restrictions: Parika Lake is located in the Never Summer Wilderness, therefore wilderness regulations apply:
  • Motorized and mechanized equipment is prohibited in the Never Summer Wilderness.
  • Pets must be under control at all times.
  • No camping or campfires within 100 feet of a developed trail or bodies of water.
  • Group size is limited to 15 people and livestock.
  • Follow Leave No Trace principles.
Unless seasonal restrictions are in effect, campfires must be attended at all times and cold to the touch with the bare hand before being abandoned. Collection of dead and down wood is allowed; do not break branches from standing trees for firewood. NOTE: Pets are prohibited on all trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, even when crossing through to the Never Summer Wilderness.
Closest Towns: Grand Lake
Water: Lakes and streams; treat water for drinking.
Restroom: Practice Leave No Trace principles.
Operated By: U.S. Forest Service

General Information

Directions: • Highway 34 to Rocky Mountain National Park’s (RMNP) west entrance. • From the park entrance, follow Trail Ridge Road (HWY 34) for 6.4 miles to the Bowen/Baker TH parking area. The junction for the Parika Lake Trail is 4 miles up the Baker Gulch Trail.

Activities

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Know Before You Go

Related Information

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Related Links

Campgrounds At-A-Glance

Featured Events

Location

 
  Latitude : 
40.3812074

  Longitude : 
-105.9396905