Features:

Here is another outstanding hike with incredible payoff. From the trail head you head east on Trail #3375, which is one of the three main trails that take a hiker to Jefferson Park at the base of Mt. Jefferson. The first two miles the trail climbs through a dense forest, crossing several small streams along the way.

You then come to the junction of Trail #3342, which leads to the left and to the summit of Bear Point. You, however, keep hiking straight ahead. The trail wanders through very rugged terrain, and because of water run-off there are a number of places where you need to watch your step because of the large rocks left in the trail from the erosion.

The trail becomes a lot steeper now, as it begins to work its way up into the Jefferson Park Basin. From time to time you will catch some glimpses of Mt. Jefferson and behind you the Breitenbush River Valley. To the southwest you can see Triangulation Peak.

About 4 miles into the hike, you will not only be more out in the open, and in season surrounded by wildflower, but you will come upon the only large tarn along the trail.

The trail continues to climb for another half mile or so, then passes over a ridge and you begin to actually desend into the Jefferson Park Basin. At times the rocky trail gets very steep, but only for a short distance. Most of the trail from here on out is in great shape.

Finally, you will come to the junction of the Pacific Crest Trail. At this point you are in Jefferson Park, so just wander where you will and enjoy all the lakes, tarns, flowers, and mosquitos that your heart desires..... did I say mosquitos??? Oh dear..... Enjoy!

Wildflowers along the trail to Jefferson Park

Tarn along the trail to Jefferson Park