Burnt Lake

It was a beautiful spring day. Time to get outdoors and enjoy a wonderful hike. The thought of one of the prettiest lakes in the Mt. Hood Wilderness was in my mind as I drove to the 2,700-foot Burnt Lake Trailhead. The last 1 1/2 miles on a steep, dirt road with huge potholes. Not a road for the family sedan.

After walking through a stile I followed the trail along Burnt Creek for several miles, climbing over and around large trees that had fallen over the trail. After crossing the Creek I saw many huge burnt-out cedars left as reminders of a severe forest fire in the 1800s.

Mt. Hood

In the next one-half mile I came to Lost Creek Falls, a series of four waterfalls in a small canyon. The Trail then gained 700 feet in the next mile as it ascended the steep headwall.  Soon Burnt Lake was reached.

There was a light breeze and lots of sunshine. I found a nice spot near the lakeshore, took off the pack and enjoyed the beautiful setting. The fresh snow on Mt. Hood reflecting in the lake made for a dramatic backdrop.