Parker Lake Trail

Parker Lake is tucked beneath the giant mountains of Mount Wood, Mount Lewis, and Parker Peak. I hiked the Parker Lake trail during peak foliage season and I was blown away by the amazing fall colors. The trail starts off with a steady and rocky climb. After you pass the elevation gain, the trail levels up. In the beginning, the Parker creek is running below the trail; however, when you get closer to the Parker Lake, you start walking along the aspen-lined rushing creek where you can spot people fishing along. Even though it was very warm along the trail, when I reached the Parker Lake it was windy, so I would recommend bringing a light jacket if you are planning to hang around lake a little bit. On the way back, you walk along the same trail you came from but this time you are awarded with stunning views of Mono Lake.

You can reach Parker Lake trail from the north end of Hwy 158 (June Lake Loop), take the Parker Lake Road to the trailhead parking. Parking is very limited therefore you might need to park along the dirt road that leads to the trailhead and walk up. I have not but this is also a great place to camp and fish. You can fish along the Parker Creek or you can fish when you reach to Parker Lake. I even saw a guy carrying his little blow-up fishing watercraft up to the lake.