Hikers heading for the Pacific Crest Trail and the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness often start at Wahtum Lake Trailhead, which shares its parking with a day-use area beside Wahtum Lake Campground in the Hood River Ranger District. From Hood River, follow the Dee Highway (OR 281) south for roughly 11.5 miles until the Lost Lake turnoff, then branch onto Forest Road 13 and later Forest Road 1310.
Both forest roads are narrow and can get busy, so drive slowly and keep an eye out for rockfall. Besides the PCT, trails such as Eagle Creek, Herman Creek, Rainy-Wahtum, and Chinidere Mountain head out from here. Vault toilets are on site, but there’s no drinking water.
Photos
Getting there
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.
Road notes
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.
From the Forest Service
Good to know
This site is operated by a concessionaire.
Rules and restrictions
Wilderness restrictions apply.
All fees
Day Use:
$10 per vehicle per day
$30 per annual
Passes and permits
The Annual Northwest Forest Pass is accepted.
Ranger office
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)
