6 Lakes at Mt Hood for Summer Cool-down Fun
Posted by Mt Hood Vacation Rentals | Tuesday, May 11, 2021
What better way to cool down on a sunny summer day at Mt Hood than to visit the lake? There are actually more than 150 lakes and 14 wild and scenic rivers throughout the Mt Hood National Forest, but these six are some of our favorites (and they are nearby our Mt Hood vacation cabins).
Six Lakes at Mt Hood to Enjoy this Summer
- Burnt Lake – in the Mt Hood Wilderness and ideal for hikers
- Trillium Lake – just 3 miles east of Government Camp
- Timothy Lake – 12 miles southeast of Frog Lake
- Frog Lake – just 5 miles past Trillium Lake
- Lost Lake – about 15 miles up Lolo Pass Road
- Mirror Lake – just off the highway, 1 mile west of Government Camp
#1 – Burnt Lake
Burnt Lake is a high-alpine lake that is only accessible via a 6-8 mile out-and-back hiking trail which can be accessed from the north or the south. Access to the trail is a ways down LoLo Pass, so even though the hiking distance is relatively common, you can usually expect Burnt Lake to be a little less crowded than other lakes. You can also do a thru-hike if you pre-arrange a shuttle – either way you’ll want to bring food, water, and a towel if you plan to take a dip.
#2 – Trillium Lake
Trillium Lake is perfect for swimming because only non-motorized boats are permitted. Being a smaller lake, the water is warmer! You can fish, canoe, kayak and paddle board at Trillium Lake. There are also several trails for all abilites for hiking, running and biking around the lake. Stay at the Marshall Cabin in the Trillium Lake Basin and you will be just 2 miles to the lake. Mt Hood is also popular for romantic retreats. Many of our cabins have played a part in engagements, honeymoons and anniversaries.
#3 – Timothy Lake
Timothy Lake offers spectacular views of Mt Hood, several trails, fishing, boating, picnic tables and a bathroom. It is the one of the few lakes that allows motorized boating (10 MPH speed limit) making it easier to explore the entire lake or to go fishing. Timothy Lake Trail #528 is the most popular trail and offers views of Timothy Lake, Mt Hood and Mt Jefferson. The trail is 7.4 miles one way, and you can either turn around or take one of several loop options. Timothy Lake Trail #528 is open to hikers and horses and most of the trail is also open for mountain bikers.
#4 – Frog Lake
Frog Lake is named for the frogs that live in the trees near the lake (they are actually Western Mountain Toads). During the early summer, you will find lots of tadpoles swimming in the shallow areas of the lake, and by mid-July they will be toads! There are several trails you can access from the Frog Lake parking area including the Twin Lakes Trail. This is a great spot for kids to explore on your next family reunion trip at Mt Hood.
#5 – Lost Lake
Lost Lake is the most difficult to get to requiring some gravel road driving, but the views are well-worth the drive and some of the best in the Mt Hood area. Lost Lake is surrounded by rugged mountains and you’ll enjoy an abundant amount of fauna and flora. You can fish, canoe, kayak, paddle-board and hike at Lost Lake. Boat rentals are available at the lake, too!
#6 – Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake is just off the highway near Government Camp. This is one of the most popular hiking trails in the area, so you will want to hit it early. The good news is that the Forest Service has built a new parking lot and trailhead at the west end of the Mt Hood Adventure Park parking lot to ease the congestion. Dogs are welcome to take a dip at Mirror Lake, and they’re also welcome in our pet-friendly vacation rentals.
Where to Rent Gear for Your Lake Excursion
No need to bring heavy, bulky water gear with you – you can rent what you need once you get here. Kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddle boards are all available at Mt Hood Outfitters in Government Camp. They will even meet you at the lake with the boats and pick them up when you are finished boating!
Plan Your Mt Hood Getaway
Your Mt Hood adventure awaits! We’ve got all the details on planning the perfect Mt Hood getaway in our area guide. Plus, browse a huge selection of vacation cabins with pet friendly amenities and riverfront settings.
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