Recreation Region: Deschutes NF - Sisters-Metolius Area

Jefferson Lake Trailhead

This trailhead accesses several trails for beautiful views of lakes and lava flows.

Provides access to:

Jefferson Lake Trail #4001
Cabot Lake Trail #4003 (10 miles from trailhead)

This trailhead enters the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness. Wilderness Permits are required. See "Permit Info" below for more details.

General Information

There are two types of entry permits required between June 15 and October 15 for entering the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness from this trailhead.

Overnight Use
- Central Cascades Wilderness Permit between June 15 and October 15.
Day Use
- Free, self-issue Wilderness Permit (available at the trailhead) between June 15 and October 15.

Check out Recreation.gov for more information or call 1-877-444-6777.

Wilderness restrictions apply in the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness.
Pamelia Lake – No camping within 100 feet of high-water mark of lake or any other water source
Campfires are prohibited above 5,700 feet and within these lake basins:
- Marion Lake
- Ann Lake
- Table Lake
Motorized and mechanical equipment (including bicycles and drones) are prohibited in the Wilderness
Groups must be under 12 people and 12 head of stock
Build campfires at least 100 feet away from water
Pack in / Pack out!

Getting There

Directions

From Sisters, travel 9.6 miles northwest on Hwy 20, then 13.6 miles north on Forest Road 14.

Take Forest Road 1270 west (near Lower Bridge Campground). Stay right at the fork, then stay left. Take a right on Forest Road 1290 and then go left on Forest Road 1292.

You'll come to the end of Forest Road 1292 and you'll see the trailhead.