9. Wahtum Lake Loop
2024 Status
Based on recent aerial photography, the old forest along this hike appears to be in good shape. I plan to field-check and update the hike description, photos and map later in 2024.
Summary
Length 3 ½ mile loop
Difficulty Moderate
Season Summer to early autumn
Elevation range 3,740 – 4,270 feet
Human imprint Moderate (campers, hikers, nearby road)
Information Mount Hood National Forest (Hood River Ranger District)
Primary old growth features
Mixed Douglas-fir and true fir old growth.
Description
Old-growth forests surround peaceful Wahtum Lake, a glistening gem tucked into the head of the Eagle Creek basin along the eastern margin of the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. Douglas-fir and western hemlock, species typically found at low elevations, intermingle with noble fir and Pacific silver fir on the hillslopes above the lake. Portions of three trails can be linked together to form a 3 ½ mile loop around the basin.
Start by stepping down the seemingly endless 254 stairs to the lake on the Wahtum Express Trail (406 H), then turn right onto the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT, 2000). Alternatively, take the longer but less steep Wahtum Switchback Trail (407) down to the lake. Hike around the east side of Wahtum Lake through an exemplary stand of true fir and Douglas-fir old growth. Head up across the slope curving westward, first passing a junction with the Herman Creek Trail (406) on the right, then coming to a junction with the Chinidere Cutoff Trail (406M). Head steeply downhill to the left on the Chinidere Cutoff Trail back to Wahtum Lake. Turn left onto the Eagle Creek Trail (440), then rejoin the Pacific Crest Trail for the final leg of the loop.
If the sky is clear, a detour to the top of Chinidere Mountain is well worth the time and energy. Continue straight on the PCT at the junction with the Chinidere Cutoff Trail and take a right about 100 yards later on the Chinidere Mountain Trail (445). Switchback up the slope for less than a half mile to reach the summit for top-of-the-world views of Mt. Hood and other Cascade peaks near and far. Views down Eagle Creek overlook the aftermath of the Eagle Creek Fire (2017).
25 Years of Change
The Eagle Creek Fire (2017) burned nearby and is visible from the top of Chinidere Mountain, but did not affect the forests along this loop. I plan to field check the entire loop in 2024.
How to get there
Head south through the town of Hood River (55 miles east of the 1-84/1-205 junction) on 13th Street and follow signs towards Odell. Cross Hood River after 4-3/4 miles, then bear right towards Dee. At a junction 6-1/4 miles later bear right towards Lost Lake Campground. Stay left on the Lost Lake Road after crossing the bridge 1/4 mile later. Turn right onto paved FR 13 towards Wahtum Lake 5 miles later. After another 4-1/4 miles, turn right onto FR 1310. Park at the Wahtum Lake Campground pullout 6 miles later.
Map note
The map below was created in 1993 and accurate at that time. I plan to field check and update the map in 2024. Note that the Pacific Crest Trail (2000) circling around the north side of the lake is incorrectly labeled as trail ‘409’.
