Opal Lake Hike

Overview

NOTICE: Trails in this area were affected by the 2020 Beachie Creek Fire. Please check current closures in the Willamette National Forest before planning an outing. The Opal Lake Trail #3372 drops down steeply from FR 2207 less than half a mile to Opal Lake, the source of Opal Creek. Opal Lake is remote and beautiful spot, and of late has been used as a starting point for those wanting to visit elusive Opal Creek Falls, a few-tenths of a mile downstream from the lake (bushwhack only). The trailhead is 40 yards down the road from the parking pullouts. There is a wilderness permit box to sign in. The rubbly trail drops under Douglas-fir, Alaska yellow-cedar, and mountain hemlock. Pass the wilderness sign and drop farther. Here the trail tread has been eroded into a rocky gully. At times, there are substitute tracks to the side, adding to the potential for more erosion. Noble fir, silver fir, and vine maple also grow in these woods. The trail levels in a lush bottomland with western red-cedar, silver fir, noble fir, salmonberry, and thimbleberry. The trail skirts a boggy meadow blooming with boykinia. Pass through a willow thicket and cross a creek and a bog. Bog orchids are blooming here. Reach the lake and take in the peaceful scene with yellow water lilies and newts lolly-gagging about.

Trail Stats

Photos

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