Started the Hike from the Trapper Creek TH on #192 and then onto #133 to the lake at ~4000 ft. The trail is clearly marked at strategic places and one of the best maintained trails. The entire hike in pretty much under treeline with views of adjoining peaks, but an occasional break in the tree line to reveal Helens, Hood and Adams. Plenty of giant furs and old growth trees, which is a treat. But the real bounty is the glacier cirque formed fresh water lake at the top, very clear with plenty of fish (several jumped out of the water before my eyes, about 6~8 inches, there are probably bigger ones). A family with toddlers were even swimming there. Several level camping spots around the lake. Mosquitoes and insects are about and Picaridin did the work of keeping them at bay for me. My GPS base camp read 11.2 miles RT and ~2900 EG, and Lake at 4008 ft. It took me 5hr 30 min RT with breaks. Much of the gain happens in the last 2 miles. Not a soul passed me on the way up, but on the way down passed 5 people. If you are looking for a quiet and solitude hike, this might just be it.
Directions from Pdx: 84E to Bridge of the gods, 14E to Carson, LT on Mineral springs to RT on FR5401, drive over a bridge into a large parking/TH.
Red Tape: NWFP, or pay $5, there is a sign for a sno-park (not sure if it is needed this time of year), and a self issue registration is required at TH
Soda Peaks Lake hike - 072218
Soda Peaks Lake hike - 072218
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sheilakpdx
- Posts: 70
- Joined: June 3rd, 2017, 6:05 pm
Re: Soda Peaks Lake hike - 072218
I have been eyeing this hike for a while - thanks for the description!
Re: Soda Peaks Lake hike - 072218
Sheilakpdx,
A picnic at the lake and stick the tired feet into the cool waters and just submerge into the peaceful serenity of the surroundings. ummh ... cant ask for more.
-Mani
A picnic at the lake and stick the tired feet into the cool waters and just submerge into the peaceful serenity of the surroundings. ummh ... cant ask for more.
-Mani
Re: Soda Peaks Lake hike - 072218
So you did the bigger hike from below. Most people do the shorter hike from what I call the back side, though it is by far the common route. It's just as steep, but for a far shorter distance. It gains less than half the altitude. It's sometimes now a little hard to find since vandals keep destroying the road sign for that trailhead.
Re: Soda Peaks Lake hike - 072218
drm,
yeah, i wanted to do the longer route and get some extra workout and soak in the old growth along the way.
From the same TH, one can do the observation peak (14 miles) which would provide 360 views at the summit. I almost wanted to the observation peak this weekend and changed at the last minute due to the heat warning.
yeah, i wanted to do the longer route and get some extra workout and soak in the old growth along the way.
From the same TH, one can do the observation peak (14 miles) which would provide 360 views at the summit. I almost wanted to the observation peak this weekend and changed at the last minute due to the heat warning.
Re: Soda Peaks Lake hike - 072218
Note: Northwest Forest Pass is not required unless you use the amenities at the trailhead. Sno*Park passes are for 30 Nov - 30 Apr, if I recall correctly.
Re: Soda Peaks Lake hike - 072218
The snopark is on the Mineral Springs Road just before you turn right to the trailhead. It's mainly for people accessing the cabins in winter.
As to the NWFP, the rangers don't know if you used amenities so it is required of everybody who parks there. Last I heard a ticket was $99 - I have seen tickets being given out. If you get one, you can then get a lawyer and challenge it. Maybe you could collect some DNA from the outhouse to prove your case.
As to the NWFP, the rangers don't know if you used amenities so it is required of everybody who parks there. Last I heard a ticket was $99 - I have seen tickets being given out. If you get one, you can then get a lawyer and challenge it. Maybe you could collect some DNA from the outhouse to prove your case.