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Recreation Region: Hood River Ranger District

Wahtum Lake Trailhead & Day Use

The Wahtum Lake Trailhead leads to several trails within Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. The parking area is for both the trailhead and day use area, located adjacent to the Wahtum Lake Campground.

Provides access to: Eagle Creek Trail #440, Pacific Crest Trail #2000, Rainy-Wahtum Trail #409Chinidere Mountain Trail #445, Herman Creek Trail #406.

General Information

Free, self-issued wilderness permits are required from May 15 to October 15 when provided at a portal.  
Annual Northwest Forest Pass may be used as fee payment.

$10/vehicle/day to park at the trailhead/day use area. This trailhead is concessionaire-operated.

Hood River Ranger District

Address: 6780 Highway 35 Parkdale, OR 97041
Phone: (541) 352-6002
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed 12 to 1 for lunch. (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Directions

From Hood River, OR - Travel south on OR Hwy 281 Dee Highway (it goes past the Hood River airport) about 11.5 miles to the Lost Lake turn-off. Bear right here and cross the East Fork of the Hood River. Keep to the left and follow the signs as if going to Lost Lake.

Travel Considerations

One half mile after crossing the West Fork of the Hood River, a signed junction will indicate Wahtum Lake to the right (Forest Road 13); take this road. Although paved, this is a narrow road; there may be heavy traffic during the summer months. At the next intersection (4+ miles), keep right onto the Forest Road 1310. This road is even narrower and traffic may be just as heavy.

Use caution and watch for rockfall on the roads to Wahtum Lake.

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are not available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Recreation Opportunities

Last updated September 9, 2025