Hike Canyon Creek Meadows Loop in Oregon

This is one of the top hikes in Central Oregon, but getting to it at the right time is is key. Too early and there is too much snow, too late and it can be very dry, hot and brown, including the lake at the top. But if you get it right, you might see a herd of mountain goats, meadows full of wildflowers, snow capped mountains in the distance, views for miles and a gorgeous alpine lake.

Hike Canyon Creek Meadows Loop in Oregon

Miles: 8 ◆ Elevation Gain: 1,762′ ◆ Trail Type: Out and Back or Lollipop Loop ◆ Trail Level: Moderate to Hard closer to Ridge ◆ Permit: May-October ◆ Dog Friendly on Leash

Make sure to get your permit before the hike. Volunteers are out and people have been turned away and after that drive, it would be a bummer. You can find information regarding permits here: Jack Lake Trailhead Permit

This hike is so much fun from beginning to end. It seems like you get this hike in segments and it is also dog friendly! This hike starts at Jack Lake in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness. On a hot day, this is a great start and end to this amazing hike.

Make sure to follow the Canyon Creek Trailhead signs. There are multiple trails that start here and that branch off throughout the hike.

At this sign on your way, you turn left. On your way back, to do the lollipop, which I highly suggest, you keep going straight.

This is one of my favorite spots. You come upon this beautiful meadow and it is a good time if you want to let the dogs off their leash for a second. One of the best views of Three Fingered Jack, until you get right next to it.

Shortly after this comes the wildflowers and the perfect water stop for the dogs! If you need to purify or filter water, this is a good area as well.

Take the time at the wildflowers because after that section begins the hard climb to the ridge. Your first reprieve is at this amazing view. The silt color of the lake is not always that color. Our first hike we did it was brown and so not the greatest but this time it was gorgeous with the snow capped mountains.

Keep climbing to the ridge and you will get an amazing view further south. Even the dogs loved it! You are right against Three Fingered Jack here. You can see the different colors that make up this peak and hopefully you will see the herd of mountain goats!

There is another view point from the ridge that gives you another view!

On your loop back this is the lollipop side. You might say why would you go this way, it’s through old burn. But through old scars is beauty. You can witness the forest growing back. The green pops and the sound of the stream and chipmunks running everywhere is a comforting sound.

Let the dogs play at Jack Lake again at the end and that makes for a grand day in the mountains!

The parking lot is large, but still not good to tow anything. It won’t make it. But a high clearance or 4×4, can. There is a vault toilet right in front and the trail to the right of here.