Backpacking at Parika Lake, Never Summer Wilderness

Want to experience Rocky Mountain Nat. Park, but having trouble getting a backpacking permit? Not digging huge crowds? Parika Lake sits in the Never Summer Wilderness located just to the west of RMNP, and backpacking access is free and tends to not get as crowded as other areas close by. Starting in RMNP, you'll get some of the great views and shortly into the hike, cross over into the Never Summer Wilderness.  Getting to this lake can be achieved with an early start day hike, but I recommend packing up and spending the night.

Starting off on the Bowen-Baker trail, head west. You'll start the first few miles in dense forest with a mild grade. It won't be long until you reach RMNP boundary and enter into Never Summer. This is clearly marked, make sure you register for backpacking. The trail reaches the Baker Gulch Trail split (3.55 miles) and begins a moderately strenuous climb. Look for moose and elk here!

At about 4.25 miles, you will reach a smaller lake in an opening. We decided to set up camp here for the night, more trees for coverage and you are still allowed to have a campfire at this location. Plus it is a great place to drop your (now really heavy) pack before the final climb up to Parika Lake (another .75 miles).

Only staying one night, head back the way you came, this is the easiest way back to your car. Although, on the trail, I ran into a few more backpackers who turned this trip into a loop and continued the trail to Bowen Lake. Next time!

Getting there: From Grand Lake, Colorado, head north on US 34 to the Kawuneeche Entrance Station of Rocky Mountain National Park. You will need to pay the access fee ($20), but you will be able to park overnight. Continue north for about seven miles and turn left (west) at the sign for the Bowen-Baker Trailhead. Here you will find parking and a quick restroom stop.