Bowen Gulch (#119)

Length: 7.4 miles ONE-WAY

Elevation: 8,832 feet at the Bowen Baker Trailhead; 11,465 feet at Bowen Pass

Trail Description: Begin at the Bowen Baker Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park. Begin a steady climb west into the Never Summer Wilderness to the top of Bowen Pass.  

Download a trail profile here.

View a trail map here.

At a Glance

Current Conditions: Only accessible from Rocky Mountain National Park. Other access closed due to the East Troublesome Fire.
Fees: A daily fee is required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park.
Permit Info: No permit required to camp overnight in the Never Summer Wilderness. A "no-fee" permit is required to park overnight at the Bowen Baker Trailhead. Contact Rocky Mountain National Park for more details.
Usage: Medium
Best Season: Hiking conditions are best from July through September.
Restrictions: The Bowen Gulch Trail is in the Never Summer Wilderness, therefore wilderness regulations apply:
  • Motorized and mechanized equipped is prohibited.
  • 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: Dogs are not allowed on any trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, even if connecting 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

Activities

Backpacking

General Info:

Directions

Take 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.


Know Before You Go

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Related Links

Campgrounds At-A-Glance

Location

 
  Latitude : 
40.354797

  Longitude : 
-105.858