PATJENS LAKES LOOP
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Big Lake is the starting and ending point for a loop through the Mt. Washington wilderness area past the four Patjens Lakes. Reflected across Big Lake - 225 acres in size - is Mt. Washington on a mid-October day. The lake has some nice camping sites and is known for its good trout fishing. |
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The trail leads through new and old growth timber, with lupine in the summer months and a bit of red foliage in the fall.
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At 1.5 miles, stay left where the trail forks and begin climbing a low ridge. At the top of the ridge are peek-a-boo views of Broken Top and South Sister. |
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You can see the first three Patjens Lakes through the trees, with side trails leading down to each lake (pictured here is the third and largest lake). The fourth lake is far enough off the trail that you can't see it as you're hiking. |
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At a little over 5 miles, the trail loops back around to Big Lake. Hayrick Butte shows up between the trees, with Hoodoo Ski Bowl just off to the left. |
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Shortly after the trail joins up with Big Lake, you'll come to a fork. The left fork will take you back to the trailhead, while the right fork stays within sight of the lake and brings you back to the campground and parking area. |
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We were at Big Lake in mid-October and were amazed at the aquamarine colors of the water. |
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There are several great picnicking and photo op spots around Big Lake. |
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On a gorgeous warm spring day in April, we packed our snow-shoes and headed back to Big Lake. The road was closed near the Hoodoo Ski Bowl, so we left our snow shoes and walked the 2 miles to the lake, wishing we had our snow shoes for the last half mile. We anticipated taking photos of a snow-capped Mt. Washington reflected in Big Lake, but were disappointed to find the lake mostly covered with ice. |
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This photo shows the backside of Hayrick Butte. |
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Hiking back to our vehicle, Three Fingered Jack loomed in front of us. |
Elevation: Approximately 400 feet elevation change Trail distance: 6.5 mile loop Rated: Easy Latitude: 44.37139 Longitude: 121.87139 Directions: From Bend, travel west on Hwy 20 past Sisters. Turn left at the Hoodoo Ski Bowl sign onto Big Lake Road. Travel about 3 miles to a dirt pull-out parking area near the trailhead kiosk, which is on your right and just across the road from the Big Lake Campground. Fees: Free wilderness permit. |
