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BPX 3-Day: Parika and Bowen Lakes via Baker Gulch and Bowen Gulch


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BPX 3-Day: Parika and Bowen Lakes via Baker Gulch and Bowen Gulch

A spectacular loop to two scenic lakes and on top of the Continental Divide in the Never Summer Wilderness. This difficult trip is a 20.2 mile loop with 5,900 feet of vertical over three days.

Suggested Backpacking Section (BPX) itinerary for 3-day trip to be used for CMC trips led by BPX leaders for BPX members:

Day 1. From the trailhead go right at the Y-junction and hike up the Baker Gulch Trail (#29). At just over 4 miles at the junction with the Parika Lake Trail (29.2) continue straight on the Parika Lake Trail to Parika Lake and camp near the lake. (5.6 miles/2700’).

Route Day 1

Day 2. Start early because of the possibility of afternoon storms and climb over the Continental Divide on the Parika Lake Trail. Turn south on the Never Summer Trail (#1141) and climb back to the Divide then turn right on the Continental Divide Trail. Hike to the junction with the Bowen Lake Trail (#118) and descend to Bowen Lake and establish camp. (6.8 miles/2700’) 

Route Day 2

Day 3. Hike north on the Bowen Lake Trail to the Bowen Gulch Trail (#119). Turn right on that trail and return to the trailhead.  (7.8 miles/500’)

Route Day 3

Driving Directions: From Granby follow Highway 40 west to Highway 34. Go north on Hwy 34 to Rocky Mountain National Park's West Entrance. From the park entrance, follow Trail Ridge Road for 6.4 miles to the Bowen/Baker Trailhead parking area.

General Requirements: The Bowen-Baker trailhead is in the Rocky Mountain National Park which requires an entrance fee and dogs are not allowed. However, nearly all of the hike is not in RMNP. An early start is essential on the second day to avoid storms.

IMPORTANT: MUST have RMNP reservations made ahead of trip as of Oct 31, 2020

  • Difficulty: Difficult
  • Length: 20.2 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 5,900 ft
  • 12,200 ft
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    Never Summer Wilderness Area, Sulphur Ranger District (ARNF)
  • Parking Permit Required: National Park Entrance Fees
  • Recommended Party Size: 6
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
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  • Trails Illustrated 200
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