2 min
Overview
Parker Lake is one of the smaller lakes near the June Lake Loop, but while foliage-seeking tourists will flock to the easily accessible aspen groves of June, Gulf, Silver, and Grant Lakes, for a tiny bit more effort hikers can enjoy the absolutely stunning views at the end of the Parker Lake Trail. There is a handful of trails I have hiked over the years that have taken my breath away – causing me to just sit in awe at what’s before me. Parker Lake is one of those trails. Head down the dusty Parker Lake Road (bumpy, but navigable for passenger cars) and park at the trailhead. From here, you’re given no clues as to what you’re about to hike through. To your east, you have great views of Mono Lake over the serene chaparral, and to the west, all you can make out are the distant summits of Mount Wood, Mount Lewis, and Parker Peak. The trail starts off with a noticeable climb, gaining 315 feet in the first 0.4 miles. There’s a bit more elevation gain after that but most of the hard work is done right at the beginning of the trail, so don’t get discouraged. As you climb, you’ll be able to see into Parker Creek Canyon itself. Although you’ll still be above the creek for a while, the effect that steady water flow has on the chaparral is very apparent as sagebrush gives way to mountain mahogany, Jeffrey Pine, and red fir – along with quaking aspen closer to the creek itself. The trail makes a few more short climbs before hitting a mostly flat stretch of trail that continues until you reach Parker Lake. You’ll pass through a few different aspen groves along the way here, so be prepared to take some extra time to snap some photos – especially if you’re coming during peak color. After making its way through a small pine grove, the trail skirts the banks of Parker Creek – creating one of the most photogenic non-lake or peak scenes I’ve ever encountered in the Sierra. You may see some anglers casting into the creek here, or shutterbugs snapping scenes, or just fellow travelers taking a moment to soak in all the beauty. It’s
Trail Stats
6.1 km
196 m
2536 m
2367 m
—
Photos
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.