Mud Lake Trail 406A

This trail is in the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. This is a pleasant hike to Mud Lake from a remote area on the Herman Creek Trail #406. Mud Lake has nice views of Waucoma Ridge and the top of the Herman Creek drainage. The small shallow lake basin can be buggy during the warm months. There is a campsite near the trail’s end at the lake.

This trail begins at Herman Creek Trail #406 and ends at Mud Lake. For the shortest route to this trail, begin at Wahtum Lake trailhead and follow Ant Hill Trail #406B 1.9 miles north to Herman Creek Trail #406. Turn right onto #406 and follow it for 0.8 mile to the beginning of Mud Lake Trail #406A. Turn right onto #406A and head east down through heavy timber to Mud Lake. The trail drops 100 feet over its 0.2 mile to the lake. This trail can also be accessed from the north via Herman Creek Trail #406 (8.8 miles from Herman Creek Campground).

Link to Trail Description and Map (PDF File)

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Open, but expect hazards due to 2017 fire. Watch for fire-weakened trees, rockslides, landslides, stumpholes, and washouts. Avoid during high winds and heavy rains.
Permit Info:	Wilderness Permits are required for the trails leaving from Wahtum Lake between May 15 and Oct 15. Permits are free and self-issued at a permit box at the trailhead leaving Wahtum Lake Campground.
Open Season:	June
Restrictions:	Wilderness restrictions apply
Closest Towns:	Hood River, OR
Passes:	A valid Recreation Pass is required at Wahtum Lake trailhead.
Operated By:	Forest Service

General Information

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.

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, during the summer expect heavy traffic. 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. Stay on the pavement until Wahtum Lake Campground is reached. This is the trailhead for trails heading down to and around Wahtum Lake.

CAUTION: WATCH FOR ROCKFALL ON ROADFrom Herman Creek Horse Camp and trailhead (area is unavailable)in the Columbia River Gorge.

Mud Lake Trail 406A

At a Glance

General Information

Activities

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Quick Links

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities