One of the smoothest sections of the PCT trail in Oregon is between Frog Lake and Barlow Pass trailheads. The trail is fairly wide and almost always in great condition, making it a fast run, especially the descent after the small hill south of Barlow Pass to Frog Lake. Both trailheads have easy access and parking lots, with Frog Lake off Highway 26 and Barlow Pass at Highway 35. Each spot requires a Northwest Forest Pass.
The Frog Lake to Barlow Pass distance is 5 miles, making it a 10 mile out and back. Add some distance using the Twin Lakes Trail and Palmateer Trail to loop around back to the PCT.
Old wooden trail sign at Twin Lakes – PCT trail junction.
The Twin Lakes are fed from nearby springs that provide crystal clear waters that in the right light provide reflections from Mt. Hood to the north.
Mt. Hood from Upper Twin Lake.
The mile out and back to Palmateer Peak has a bountiful amount of wildflowers and a beautiful vista of the mountain.
Mt. Hood and Balsamroot at Palmateer Point
Another 7.5-mile loop from Frog Lake is the Frog Lake Buttes Loop using the Frog Lake Trail #530, the Frog Lake Buttes Trail #484, the Twin Lakes Trail #495, and the Pacific Crest Trail #2000. Frog Lake is a popular lake in the summertime for camping and day use. There is one view of Mt. Jefferson on the way to Frog Lake Buttes, but the top is fairly unspectacular, with a cell tower blocking any sight.
Leave A Comment