We can’t say for certain how many hiking trails exist in Oregon, but it’s a safe bet to say that it could easily take you a lifetime to explore them all. Here’s a trail that can be modified to fit the skills of just about any hiker, and the payoff is a gorgeous lake and a waterfall swimming hole.
You’ll find the Chimney Peak Trailhead in central Oregon. It’s part of the Middle Santiam Wilderness Area that was created in 1984.
Brandon Meek/Google
Prior to its wilderness designation and protection from the U.S. Forest Service, the area all around was heavily clear-cut. Today, a hike through this protected area includes some trees that are up to 200 feet tall, and can span six feet in diameter.
Neil Layton/Alltrails
The trail takes you through the old-growth forest, and it’s usually pretty quiet and peaceful here. For even more solitude, hike on a weekday morning, and you’ll probably find yourself all alone, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Richard Haslebacher/Alltrails
One of the best things about this beautiful trail is that you can tailor your hike according to your skill level and time allowance. The out-and-back trail is 23.2 miles total, but you can cut it much shorter for a quick day hike.
Kevin Carr/Alltrails
Follow the trail until you get to the Shedd Camp Shelter, and enjoy a picnic lunch or snack.
Brandon Meek/Google
From the shelter, you can hear the trickle of a small waterfall into a small pool that’s a perfect swimming hole for a quick splash. You can turn around here and head back, for a total hiking distance of less than 1.5 miles.
Kevin Carr/Alltrails
Or, continue on to Donaca Lake. It’s a pretty, saphire lake tucked beneath towering Douglas firs, and it’s another good spot to cool off from the heat of the day. According to the Forest Service, the lake is less than three miles from the trailhead, so if you’re up for about a six-mile journey, this is a good stopping point.
Neal Layton/Alltrails
Feel free to continue on down the trail to your heart’s content (just leave plenty of daylight to get back to the trailhead). The trail gets more difficult as it progresses. You’ll encounter two river crossings that can be slippery, and a steep incline as you get to Chimney Peak.
Richard Haselbacher/Alltrails
Have you hiked Chimney Peak Trail? Tell us about your adventure! If you’re looking for a shorter, easier trail, take this magical river walk.
Brandon Meek/Google
Neil Layton/Alltrails
Richard Haslebacher/Alltrails
Kevin Carr/Alltrails
Neal Layton/Alltrails
Richard Haselbacher/Alltrails
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
