Pamelia Lake
How to get there:
From Salem head east on HWY 22 for approximately 62 miles, passing Detroit Lake and the little town of Idanha. Just past milepost 62, turn left onto road 2246 and drive 3.7 miles, keeping to the right when you come to a fork in the road. You’ll come to a large parking area and even a public restroom.
Distance and elevation gain:
This is a short 4.6-mile round trip hike and rather easy. Elevation gain is only 800 feet.
Fees and permits:
A federal Northwest Forest pass is required to park here. You can purchase one for $5 at the Detroit Ranger Station. (Station is closed on Sundays during the winter). Or purchase at Bi-mart. If you plan to hike a lot throughout the year, it is easier and cheaper to purchase an annual pass for only $30.
Pamelia Lake is a very popular area and from Memorial Day to October 31st, you will also be required to plan ahead and obtain a Wilderness Limited Entry Permit. This is a free pass and obtained only at the Detroit Ranger Station. If you chose to go during the popular season, I recommend that you call ahead and reserve your permit because visitation to this lake is limited. Detroit Ranger Station phone number: 503-854-3366.
What to see and do:
This is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Mt Jefferson Wilderness area, so we felt very lucky last weekend, when we went hiking to Pamelia Lake and saw only three other people. Where is everyone? It never ceases to amaze me, the beautiful places we have so close to Salem and no one is there!
Roads were clear on the drive up, but there was a light dusting of snow on road 2246 when we turned off HWY 22. We have a front wheel drive car and it took the snow covered, paved and gravel road just fine. This road and trail are open year round, unless weather prevents you from getting there. I recommend carrying tire chains at this time of year or snow tires.
This is a lovely hike and not very difficult. The trail meanders gradually uphill as it follows the raging Pamelia Creek. There are massive logjams from previous winter storms where high water took away the soil supporting the majestic trees. The forest is lush with moss and old growth douglas fir, western red cedars and hemlock. Huge boulders are piled upon each other, evidence from old debris flows and rockslides.
As you approach Pamelia Lake, pacific rhododendrons become thick and bear grass is scattered everywhere. There is a trail junction at this point, to the right is Grizzly Peak (a steep 2,000 foot climb) and to the left the trail leads to campsites, Hunts Cove and eventually to the Pacific Crest Trail. We chose to go to the left and circled the frozen, snow-covered lake. There are a few campsites scattered among the trees, and fires are prohibited within 100 feet of the lake. Fishing is supposed to be good, with abundant trout, though small in size. There are areas roped off for restoration, most likely due to the popularity of this trail and lake.
The day we went the skies were partly cloudy so we were unable to view Mt. Jefferson, though we’re pretty sure it was there, just hidden from our view.
During these cold and wet months, there are still plenty of trails that are accessible but please remember to plan ahead. With the shorter days and cooler temperatures, pack extra protection in case of emergencies. I recommend extra food, water and clothing and space blankets to keep you warm. And don’t forget your parking pass.
