Winter Backpack Trip to Russell Lake in Jefferson Park
Added by Robby Edwardsen
Brave this trip in the colder months if you're looking to avoid the crowds. Get amazing views of lakes, meadows, and surrounding peaks as you hike in. Duration: Overnight.
The trail starts at Breitenbush Trailhead and if you're doing a little extra research, can be found online as the Jefferson Park Via Park Ridge Hike. It is 11.2 miles round trip with a 2500 feet elevation gain.
It is usually backpacked during the summer months but my group decided to take a leap and brave this adventure during the winter! The plus side of this was that we had a usually very crowded area all to ourselves! The views on this amazing trail I would recommend to anyone! The juice was definitely worth the squeeze when you get to the summit of park ridge and can see amazing mountain views in every direction. You'll pass meadows, lakes, and see the peaks of Park Butte and Park Ridge. We made it to our destination and set up camp at Russell Lake.
There are three other trails that lead into Jefferson Park and this is the only one that I have done so far. You just need a sturdy car to get up to the Breitenbush trailhead especially during snow season.
Go Pro.
We're committed to building a better, more inclusive home for the modern outdoors. Go PRO to support our mission and get benefits like gear deals, no ads, and more!
Join the communityReviews
Rate this AdventureCamped on Bays Lake's little island! Highly recommend. Busy but beautiful country.
4.0
I did this in the summer along the Whitewater trail. Will be doing the other trails as well and want to add a winter trip in too. Love this area!!
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
Stay Nearby
Jefferson County, Oregon
Olallie Lake Guard Station Cabin
,
Breitenbush Campground
Idanha, Oregon
Whispering Falls Campground
Idanha, Oregon
Fox Creek Group Camp
Nearby Adventures
Explore Mt. Jefferson
Hike Mt. Jefferson's Park Ridge
Hike to Gifford Lake
Hike the Olallie Lake North Basin Loop
© 2021 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy