Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail - Irish Mtn.

This section of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail is between Charlton Lake and Sisters Mirror Lake. It wanders through remote areas of old growth forest, past numerous lakes, and across treeless pumice plains.

Trails in Mt. Jefferson, Mt. Washington, and Three Sisters Wilderness Areas require a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit June 15 - October 15 for overnight use, and some will require one for day-use.

Visitors with a long-distance hiking permit issued from the Pacific Crest Trail Association for hikes greater than 500 miles do not need a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit. Check Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail #2000 for long-distance hiking permits, conditions and closures.

Current Conditions

Please use caution when recreating in areas that were impacted by the 2022 Cedar Creek Fire. A burned landscape presents a number of safety hazards that either did not exist prior to the fire or have been exacerbated by the effects of the fire. In some cases, these hazardous conditions may persist for several years after a fire. Be very aware of your surroundings, follow warning signs, area closures and directions from agency personnel, and pay particular attention to these potential safety hazards. Be especially wary of hazard trees after rain events or during wind.

General Information

Visitors with a long-distance hiking permit issued from the Pacific Crest Trail Association for hikes greater than 500 miles do not need a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit. Check Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail #2000 for long-distance hiking permits, conditions and closures.

Wilderness restrictions apply
Maps of areas where special restrictions apply: Dog leash restrictions, Camp Chambers, Green Lakes, Matthieu and Golden Lakes, Moraine Lakes, Sisters Mirror Lakes area.
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!
“Take only pictures, leave only footprints” — please refrain from cutting, damaging, or gathering vegetation or other forest items (e.g. rocks, artifacts, etc.)
Please bury human waste 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet away from water