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Explore Mt. Jefferson

Marion County, Oregon

5.0/5
based on 2 reviews

Description

Added by Andy Best

Plan on hiking crossing snow/ice. Treat this place like heaven, because it is. Get some of the greatest views in Oregon. Chat with PCT hikers. Duration: Overnight.

I went for a quick overnighter. The end of August is great for weather, very little bugs, and perfect time to meet and chat with PCT through hikers.

The weather was absolutely perfect for night photography and lounging around camp. It's also one of the best views in Oregon if you ask me.

If you're thinking of heading up, remember to snag your northwest forest pass. It's best to head up in a 4x4 vehicle with good ground clearance. The road up is a little gnarly. Once you're in the park, there are designated camp spots. Just remember, that there are no campfires allowed in the park.

Once you're done, swing by Fearless Brewing in Estacada for a brew, or if you go the other way, stop by the town of Detroit. There is plenty to see and do there.

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Features

Camping
Fishing
Photography
Backpacking
Hiking
Forest
Lake
River
Scenic

Explore Mt. Jefferson Reviews

Pamelia Lake, Jefferson Park, Grizzly Peak, Triangulation Peak, and the list goes on (all of these have adventures on the Outbound). If you're planning on a backpacking trip in Oregon, skip the Portland barrage of hikers on Mount Hood and head to the second highest peak in the state instead. The views are incredible and there are tons of alpine lakes to pitch your tent around. Unfortunately, people have begun to notice how spectacular the Jefferson wilderness is, and the USFS has responded by requiring entry permits on the Pamelia Lake trailhead and overnight reservations in Jefferson Park - so do plan ahead, or better yet, explore off-season (it's extra spectacular in winter and spring!).

The best of the best in Oregon. It is absolutely stunning. I plan to summit the mountain in 2016, but anywhere around it is so beautiful. From the rocky subalpine lakes of Jefferson Park to the burned out remnants on the south side, to the breath taking views on the glaciers it is all staggering beauty. I traveled down into Pamelia lake and it must of been frog breeding season because the trail was carpeted with them. 10's of thousands of little frogs everywhere, plus giant bull frogs it is an amazing sight. I could go on forever about Mt Jefferson as it is by far my favorite place in Oregon

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike Mt. Jefferson's Park Ridge

Olallie Lake North Basin Loop

Hike to Gifford Lake

Russell Lake via Whitewater Creek Trailhead

Boca Cave & Triangulation Peak

Pamelia Lake Trail