Recreation Region: Detroit Ranger District

Opal Lake Trail #3372, Opal Creek Wilderness

This trail drops down extremely steep to the level of Opal Lake. It then meanders through the meadows upstream on its way to the lake. The trail was rerouted in 2015 and now follows the contour from the trailhead north and east at a much gentler grade than the prior trail.

Current Conditions

This trail is in an area impacted by the Beachie Creek and Lionshead Fires. Before visiting areas affected by wildfire, make sure to review the 4 Steps for Safety for recreating in burned areas.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

#3372

General Information

Be ready for questionable footing and steep terrain.

Close to:

Wilderness Self-Issue Permit required for both day use and overnight stays from June 15 through October 15. Free permits are self-issued at the trailhead.

Opal Lake and Opal Creek. No potable water. Water from streams and lakes should be filtered or treat

A sign that says, "detroit ranger station willamette national forest" with a building in the background

Address: 44125 North Santiam Highway SE Detroit, OR 97342
Phone: (503) 854-3366
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: sm.fs.mf@usda.gov

Getting There

Trailhead/Starting Points

Access from:

Opal Lake Trailhead

Directions

From Salem, Oregon, travel east on Highway 22 for 49.5 miles and turn left onto French Creek Road (Forest Road 2223). Continue approximately 5 miles to the junction with Forest Road 2207 and turn right. Continue on Forest Road 2207 approximately 9 miles to the Opal Lake Trailhead on the right.

From Detroit, Oregon, head west on Highway 22 just across the Breitenbush Bridge turn right up French Creek Road (Forest Road 2223), travel up Forest Road 2223 to the Forest Road 2207 junction and veer right onto Forest Road 2207. Follow Forest Road 2207 for 5 miles, trailhead is on the right.