Oregon's Idyllic Alpine Lake Offers Camping And Recreation With Majestic Mount Hood Views

Oregon is home to some of the most amazing alpine lakes in the U.S., each offering stunning vistas and exceptional experiences. One such gem is Trillium Lake in Mount Hood National Forest. This lake provides a reflection of the snow-capped peaks of Mount Hood, a dormant volcano with the highest peak in the state at just over 11,000 feet. If you're interested in a peaceful day trip or fun camping weekend, Trillium Lake is a great destination in the U.S. to add to your bucket list. Trillium Lake is about 60 miles east of Portland, and just south of the majestic mountain. 

The nearest town is Government Camp (population under 100) about four miles away, making Trillium Lake an ideal getaway for those who prefer to unwind in tranquility. The nearest major airport  is Portland International (PDX) about 60 miles northwest, and the drive along Route 26 offers plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat or stretch your legs.

Trillium Lake was created in 1960 by the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife when a dam was built along Mud Creek, a tributary of Salmon River. The lake is named after the Trillium flower, a native perennial that can be found along the trails in the area.

With more than 50 campsites for tents, trailers, and large RVs, Trillium Lake is set up for whatever you need. The sites are well-shaded and come equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, clean water, and pit toilets (but no showers).

The campground's biggest draw is its panoramic view of Mount Hood, which changes dramatically with the seasons. Summertime campers can start their mornings with a stroll along Trillium Lake Loop Trail, a two-mile path around the lake. This is an easy walk with plenty of flowering plants, beautiful views of the lake, and picnic spots shaded by walls of giant evergreens.

If you love playing in the water, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on Trillium Lake. The calm waters are perfect for exploring the 63-acre lake and taking in views, and in summer, canoes, paddle boards, and other non-motorized watercraft are available for rent from Mt. Hood Outfitters in Government Camp. The lake is also a fishing hotspot with a large year-round supply of rainbow trout. Get an Oregon fishing license online and cast from shore or a boat on the lake. In winter, snow covers the trees and trails, and the road from the highway to the lake is closed. This is time for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, and visitors can follow the Snowshoe and Ski Trail, an easy 3.6-mile loop.

A popular nearby attraction is Timberline Lodge, about 10 miles from Trillium Lake on the slopes of Mount Hood. During the winter, Timberline is one of the best ski lodges in the U.S. thanks to well-maintained runs, varied terrain, and long ski season that can stretch from November to May. The lodge and surrounding landscape was featured as the exterior of the Overlook Hotel in the 1980 horror classic "The Shining." For more hiking and scenic exploration, the Mirror Lake Trail is a short drive from Trillium Lake. This  4.4-mile loop starts at the Mirror Lake Trailhead near Ski Bowl West and ends at the lake's edge; there you can see Mount Hood reflected in its waters.

The Pacific Crest Trail that leads to the Zigzag Canyon Overlook is another spectacular hike. This trail begins at the Timberline Lodge, and runs five miles out and back with an elevation gain of 950 feet. As you get closer to the overlook, you can see the ridgesand canyons around Mount Hood.

When it's time to recharge, head to the nearby town of Government Camp for a refueling break. Mt. Hood Brewing Co. is a popular destination for craft beers and a menu that includes pizza, burgers, wings, and a good selection of appetizers. Another notable eatery in the mountain village is the Ratskeller, which has wide-ranging food and drink menus to choose from. About 13 miles down the highway is the town of Rhododendron, where you'll find a coffee shop and a couple more casual restaurants.