Pear Lake

For Colorado residents with a passion for true wilderness adventure, Pear Lake offers an unparalleled backcountry camping experience deep within the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park. Located near Allenspark, this destination is not a typical campground with drive-up access or amenities; rather, it is a designated wilderness campsite reached by a challenging but incredibly rewarding hike. Pear Lake is perfect for those who seek solitude, breathtaking alpine scenery, and the satisfaction of earning their views through effort and self-reliance.

Rocky Mountain National Park is globally renowned for its majestic peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and extensive trail systems. Pear Lake, nestled high in the Wild Basin area, exemplifies the park's commitment to preserving its untouched wilderness. We understand that many local Coloradans are drawn to these more remote areas for the profound sense of connection to nature, the rigorous physical challenge, and the chance to escape the everyday hustle. This is an environment where the principles of Leave No Trace are not just guidelines but essential practices for a sustainable and respectful visit.

This article is designed to provide a clear, factual, and engaging overview of Pear Lake as a backcountry camping destination, drawing from official park information and the experiences of previous trekkers. We will detail its challenging location and accessibility, clarify the very limited services offered, highlight its most captivating features for wilderness enthusiasts, and provide essential contact information for trip planning. Finally, we will conclude by outlining why Pear Lake is an exceptionally suitable, albeit demanding, destination for Colorado locals who are prepared for a genuine backcountry adventure in one of the state's most iconic natural treasures.

Pear Lake is a designated wilderness campsite situated within the boundaries of Rocky Mountain National Park, accessible from the vicinity of Allenspark, CO 80510, USA. It is not a roadside campground but a backcountry site, requiring a significant hike to reach. The primary access point is via the Finch Lake Trailhead, located in the Wild Basin area of Rocky Mountain National Park.

The hike to Pear Lake is described as a challenging 13.5-mile out-and-back journey from the Finch Lake Trailhead. The initial section of the trail, particularly the first 1.3 miles, has seen changes in recent years due to pine beetle infestation, with many trees being cut down. This has, however, opened up new vistas, allowing for clearer views of iconic peaks like Longs Peak, Mount Meeker, and Mount Alice, as well as the expansive Wild Basin itself.

From Finch Lake, the trail continues for another two miles, gaining approximately 600 feet in elevation to reach Pear Lake. Early in the summer season, hikers should be prepared for deep snow along the trail, particularly as it passes Pear Creek. Experienced hikers advise keeping to the right and hiking parallel to the creek to navigate these snowy sections. The elevation of Pear Lake itself is substantial, reaching approximately 10,925 feet (or around 10,610 feet depending on the source). This high altitude requires proper acclimatization and preparedness for rapidly changing weather conditions, even in summer.

Accessibility to Pear Lake means self-sufficiency. There are no roads, shuttle services, or conveniences once on the trail. Hikers must carry all their gear, water, and supplies. While the journey is physically demanding, the reward is an immersion in a pristine alpine environment, far from the sounds of civilization. The route is considered difficult, and hikers should be prepared for significant elevation gain and potentially rugged terrain. For Colorado residents with a love for strenuous hikes and remote beauty, the challenging access to Pear Lake is part of its allure, offering a true escape into the high country wilderness.

• Designated Wilderness Campsites: Pear Lake offers a designated wilderness campsite, meaning specific, marked locations where overnight camping is permitted within the larger wilderness area of Rocky Mountain National Park. These sites are designed to concentrate human impact and preserve the pristine nature of the surrounding environment.

• Wilderness Permit Required: A mandatory wilderness permit from Rocky Mountain National Park is required for all overnight backcountry camping, including at Pear Lake. Permits are highly competitive, especially for peak season (May 1 to October 31), and are reserved in advance through Recreation.gov. A non-refundable administrative fee is associated with each permit ($36 as of 2025 information, which includes a $6 reservation fee and $30 Wilderness Administrative Fee).

• No Amenities: Pear Lake is a true backcountry site, providing no facilities such as potable water, restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, or trash disposal. Campers must be entirely self-sufficient, packing in all necessary supplies (including water or purification methods) and packing out all waste, including human waste (following Leave No Trace principles, which may involve using wag bags or digging catholes at appropriate distances from water sources and campsites).

• Bear-Resistant Food Storage Required: From April 1 through October 31, all food and scented items must be stored in a commercial hard-sided, carry-in/carry-out bear-resistant food storage canister. These canisters must be placed at least 70 adult steps away from the campsite.

• Campfires Prohibited: To protect the sensitive alpine environment and mitigate fire risk, campfires are strictly prohibited at Pear Lake and all other RMNP backcountry sites. Campers must use portable stoves for cooking.

• Limited Party Size: Designated individual wilderness campsites typically limit party size to 7 people to minimize environmental impact and maintain solitude. Larger groups (8-12 people) must reserve specific group sites or split up and camp at least 1 mile apart.

• Maximum Stay: During peak season (June through September), campers may stay in the wilderness for a maximum of 7 nights, with no more than 3 consecutive nights at the same campsite.

• Stunning Alpine Lake Environment: The most compelling feature of Pear Lake is the lake itself. It is a pristine alpine lake, offering dramatic views framed by surrounding peaks like Mount Copeland and Ogalalla Peak. The raw, high-altitude beauty is a significant draw.

• Remote Wilderness Solitude: Pear Lake provides an authentic wilderness experience, far removed from the noise and crowds of frontcountry areas. For those seeking true quiet and solitude, the demanding hike acts as a natural filter, ensuring a more secluded camping experience.

• Exceptional Hiking: The journey to Pear Lake along the Finch Lake Trail is a highlight in itself, offering a challenging and rewarding trek through diverse ecosystems. From the initial forest sections to the higher alpine terrain, hikers are treated to changing landscapes and, in recent years, newly opened vistas of Longs Peak and the Wild Basin.

• Proximity to Finch Lake: The route to Pear Lake passes Finch Lake, allowing hikers to experience two beautiful alpine lakes in one trip. Finch Lake itself offers stunning views and can be a good intermediate resting point.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The Wild Basin area is rich in wildlife. Backcountry campers at Pear Lake have increased chances of spotting various animals, including elk, moose, mule deer, and a wide array of birds, in their natural habitat.

• Photographic Opportunities: The dramatic mountain cirque, the clear waters of Pear Lake, and the surrounding alpine tundra provide endless opportunities for landscape photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.

• Challenge and Accomplishment: Reaching Pear Lake requires significant physical effort and preparation, providing a profound sense of accomplishment for experienced backpackers. This challenge is a major draw for many outdoor-oriented Coloradans.

• Clean Air and Pristine Environment: Being deep within a national park's wilderness, Pear Lake offers incredibly clean air and a pristine, untouched environment, providing a true escape from urban pollutants.

Address: Allenspark, CO 80510, USA (This address serves as a general geographic locator for the Wild Basin area and trailhead. Pear Lake itself is a specific backcountry campsite within Rocky Mountain National Park).

Phone: (970) 586-1206 (Rocky Mountain National Park Visitor Information)

Mobile Phone: +1 970-586-1206 (Rocky Mountain National Park Visitor Information)

For all information regarding wilderness permits, reservations, current trail conditions, regulations (including bear canister requirements and fire restrictions), and specific details about the Pear Lake campsite, it is essential to contact the Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Office directly.

Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Office Phone: (970) 586-1242

Wilderness permit reservations are handled through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to visit the official Rocky Mountain National Park website and Recreation.gov well in advance of your planned trip, as permits are highly sought after, especially during peak season.

Pear Lake, as a backcountry camping destination within Rocky Mountain National Park, is uniquely suited for Colorado locals who are experienced in wilderness travel and seek the most authentic and challenging outdoor experiences their state has to offer. For those who have grown up with the Rockies in their backyard, Pear Lake represents the pinnacle of immersion into the high country, demanding self-reliance and rewarding it with unparalleled natural beauty and profound solitude.

The significant hike required to reach Pear Lake serves as a natural filter, ensuring that those who embark on this journey are truly committed to a wilderness experience. This creates an environment where like-minded individuals can appreciate the quietude and pristine nature without the common distractions of more accessible campgrounds. For Coloradans, who often pride themselves on their outdoor prowess, the physical challenge and the subsequent reward of camping in such a remote and stunning location are deeply satisfying.

Furthermore, the opportunity to camp directly amidst the dramatic alpine scenery, with views of towering peaks and the clear waters of Pear Lake, offers an intimate connection to the landscape that few other places can provide. It's a chance to truly unplug, relying on one's skills and embracing the principles of Leave No Trace, which are second nature to many responsible outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado. The access to extensive hiking opportunities in the Wild Basin, with trails leading to other hidden gems, further enhances its appeal for locals looking for multi-day adventures.

While the lack of amenities and the need for a permit and bear canister require meticulous planning, these are not deterrents for the dedicated Colorado adventurer; rather, they are integral parts of the authentic backcountry experience. Pear Lake is more than just a place to sleep; it’s an expedition into the wild heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, offering a deep sense of accomplishment and an unforgettable connection to the rugged, untamed beauty that defines Colorado. For the prepared and adventurous local, Pear Lake is an essential and truly rewarding destination.

Pear Lake

Allenspark, CO 80510, USA