Sometimes instead of driving for hours upon hours and hiking up a mountain, you just want to simply chillax outdoors in a beautiful location. Cue Trillium Lake! If you grew up anywhere near Portland, you're probably familiar with this location. It's not exactly a secluded location, so if you're looking for privacy, this one's not for you. But if strolling and picnicking are your jam, read on my friends.
Trillium Lake offers many different recreational activities. It seems to be quite popular for fishing, paddle boarding and kayaking. It also features overnight camping. Some of the sites require you to pack your supplies in and park in a nearby lot. The best thing about this lake is that motorized boats are not allowed! So even though it's pretty crowded, it's fairly quiet. The lake also features a complete loop trail.
Hiking Trillium Loop Trail
Length of Hike: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
What to wear: Comfortable shoes
What to pack: Camera, Water
Enjoy a Picnic at Trillium Lake
There are a number of day-use picnic spots available at Trillium Lake. If you're lucky enough to beat the crowds, you might snag one of the lakefront spots. The only downside is that they are right along the highly-trafficked trail. If you don't mind some shady tree action, you can grab a table further back from the lake -- they're a bit more private. There is also a covered group picnic shelter available for events. Reservations for the picnic site and most camp sites can be made here.
Hiking Around Trillium Lake
My favorite thing about Trillium Lake is leaving the crowded day-use area and walking around the lake. It's 2 miles, but flat, so very family friendly. We took my 5-year old nephew and he walked the whole time. Aside from about 1.8 miles in, saying "I can't take it anymore!". It's fine. He's fine.
If you haven't noticed, I have a great love for foot bridges. I don't know what it is, but they're my favorite. This hike is basically half trail, half footbridge. And they're actually old and rickety and really interesting. Winding through trees, wetlands, and grassy areas, they go on for ages. Ah! So good. Here, just look at 'em!
Postcard Perfect Beauty
If you have friends or family visiting from out of town and you want to rub Oregon's beauty in their faces, this is the spot. Mt. Hood is perfectly situated behind the lake, making Instagram lovers squeal with joy. It's ridiculous. Throw in a little drive up to Timberline Lodge and a stop in Government Camp for some famous Huckleberry Pancakes, and your visitors will start considering relocation.
I think my next new adventure might have to be kayaking or paddle boarding on Trillium Lake. I've never done it, and it just looks SO peaceful. What about you? Have you visited Trillium Lake lately? What was your experience? We want to hear about it in the comments section!
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