Jump in a lake!

The Cascades are dotted with lakes, most of them carved out by glaciers thousands of years ago.

Fed by snowmelt and/or springs, the high lakes are cold and refreshing after a day’s hike. Some are readily accessible and make for popular swimming and water play spots; some are remote and require a hike to get there. Many have fish populations, some of them augmented by stocking.

Scout Lake:

Scout Lake is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to get some time in the water. Children love splashing in its waters. No dogs are allowed at the day-use area, due to sanitation concerns.

From Sisters, travel 13.2 miles northwest on Highway 20, then 1.3 miles west on Forest Road 2070, and then 0.8 miles south on Forest Road 2066.

Suttle Lake:

Suttle Lake is a favorite spot in the Deschutes National Forest. Surrounded by forest, the lake is deep and clear, and everything from a rowboat to a water skiing boat is allowed in separate parts of the lake. Link Creek, which empties into Suttle Lake, is shallow and clear enough to view spawning fish. You can hike an easy trail all around the lake, and Cinder Beach provides access for swimmers and water play. Yellow, orange, or red hues from vine maple proclaim the arrival of autumn in September or October.

Suttle Lake. Photo by Cody Rheault.

Travel west on Highway 20 for 13 miles to Forest Road 2070 and turn in.

Three Creek Lake:

Nestled under the majestic Tam McArthur Rim, Three Creek Lake is a popular spot for fishing — or just enjoying a day by (or in) the water. Motors are not allowed on Three Creek Lake, contributing to the serenity of the setting.

There is a primitive boat ramp on the east shore as well as a small store that rents boats. It can be buggy, so don’t forget your insect repellent.

Take Elm Street/FS Road 16 south out of Sisters for 16 miles.

Clear Lake:

It’s a bit of a jaunt, but Clear Lake is one of the gems of the Cascades, and worth the trip. It is one of the clearest and coldest lakes in the Cascades.

A day in a canoe or rowboat is good for the soul. Fishing is good at Clear Lake — brook trout and cutthroat trout reproduce naturally in the lake, and rainbow trout are stocked annually. 

You won’t want to jump in this one though — it’s COLD!

Clear Lake is a 40-minute drive from Sisters. Take Highway 20/126 west over Santiam Pass. At the junction, take Highway 126 west and watch for signs on the left. 

If you want a road trip, the Cascade Lakes Highway offers a 66-mile scenic drive with stops for exploration. For more information visit www.visitbend.com/points-interest/cascade lakes-national-scenic-byway/.