Lower Berley Lake Hike

Overview

The two Berley Lakes, Upper and Lower, nestle close to the Santiam Lake Trail in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness. The lakes are an easy reach from the Santiam Pass Trailhead although the recovering forest here was incinerated during the massive B & B Complex Fire of 2003. The unsigned spur trail to Lower Berley Lake is easy to miss, so pay attention to the mileage given in the description. The trail begins on the east side of the parking lot. Note: this entire trail is very sandy and some people may recommend wearing low gaiters. After filling out a wilderness permit, take the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) northbound through the remnants of the 2003 B&B Complex fire. Pass a small pond on the right, just before the junction of the PCT and the Santiam Lake Trail #3491. Then, at 1.2 miles, near a large rock outcropping, turn left on the Santiam Lake Trail #3491 through more wildfire scorched areas. During the next .7 miles, pass several small ponds below and to the left of the trail, and catch glimpses of Three Fingered Jack through the white, scarred trees. At 2.8 miles, cross a small stream named Lost Lake Creek, and ascend to a small meadow. At 3.6 miles, take a left on a faint spur trail with no markings; this is the trail that will lead to Lower Berley Lake. Follow the trail for .2 miles, traversing a small hill. Finally, make your way to the first small stretch of shoreline at Lower Berley Lake. A faint trail parallels the lake; however, you may have to bushwack some parts of it. Every two years, this lake is stocked with rainbow and brook trout via helicopter from the Forest Service. The southwest side of the lake is shallower and provides ample room for casting and camping. Upper Berley lake lies a quarter-mile northwest of Lower Berley. The Upper Berley trail on the southwest side of Lower Berley connects to it. It is advised to not take this trail (Upper Berley Trail) back out to meet with Santiam Trail, as it hasn't been maintained in years and is difficult to follow.

Trail Stats

Photos

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