Trillium Lake snowshoeing is a great way to get out in the mountains in Oregon when the weather isn't ideal. Plus, it's easy enough for all snowshoers to enjoy!
The Trillium Lake trail is one of the most popular trails near Oregon. But in the winter you're more likely to have it to yourself. Located off Highway 26, Trillium Lake snowshoeing is a family-friendly activity that has a wonderful payoff.
Trillium Lake Snowshoe Trailhead
The trail starts at an obvious parking lot off Highway 26. Keep your eyes peeled for it as you pass Government Camp and the entrance to Timberline Lodge. The trailhead is in a large parking lot that you can find on the west side of Highway 26.
Trillium Lake Snowshoe Map
Use the map below to get directions to the Trillium Lake trailhead.
Trillium Lake Snowshoe Trail
Trillium Lake is one of the most popular trails near Mount Hood. In the winter though, it takes on a very different look. The trail is usually almost empty with weekends hosting only a few groups at a time.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Time Required | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
4 miles | 250 feet | 2-3 hours | 2/10 |
The first part of the trail is the hardest. Which, depending on the hiker, can be a good or bad thing. There is a downhill section at the beginning which you'll have to surmount in order to get to the easiest part of the hike. It's more noticeable on the way back.
Luckily, the hill is a very low grade so it should still be pretty easier for everyone in your party.
While hiking in the winter isn't nearly as popular as it is in the summer, there are still plenty of visible signs along the trail. Most people stay left at the first fork they come to. It's along this part of the trail that you'll get the fantastic view of Mt. Hood behind Trillium Lake that everyone embarks on the hike to see.
If you want to, you can go all the way around the lake making the hike a loop. Or, you can go out to the halfway point and turn around.
You'll notice right away that the view of the lake and Mt. Hood is very different when you're snowshoeing at Trillium Lake than if you come during the summer. The lake will likely be frozen over and covered in snow so that if you didn't know better you'd think it was just a large, snow-covered field.
Nearby Snowshoeing
Near Trillium Falls you'll find several other really great snowshoeing trails for beginners and experienced hikers.
Mirror Lake Loop Trail
Like Trillium Lake, Mirror Lake is a very popular destination near Mt. Hood. But, in the winter, traffic drops substantially. The trail is 4 miles if you go all the way around the lake and should take you about 2 hours.
Tamanawas Falls is a large, impressive waterfall near Mt. Hood that is popular as a snowshoe trail in the winter. But, it's not always safe or easy. The rocks can be covered in ice early and late in the season.
Twin Lakes Trail
Another popular set of lakes near Mt. Hood is Twin Lakes. You might also enjoy hiking out to the upper and lower lakes during the winter when the snow makes the scenery very different.