Pacific Crest Trail: Mount Jefferson Wilderness

This section of the Pacific Crest Trail traverses the entirety of the Mount Jefferson Wilderness from north to south. It is a great overnight option for backpackers looking to enjoy the beauty of Oregon’s second tallest peak. Please note that you will need a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit for the hike.

It is best done as a one way hike with a shuttle, but getting to the northern trailhead is a bit difficult. The road to Breitenbush Lake Trailhead is rough and requires a high clearance vehicle. You may opt to add a few miles to the hike and instead take the gentler road to Olallie Lake Resort and begin there instead.

From the Breitenbush Lake Trailhead the PCT immediately enters the Mount Jefferson Wilderness where it climbs steadily up to Park Ridge. This is perhaps the best view of the entire hike. You can look north to Mount Hood, but Mount Jefferson looms large to the south and dominates the skyline.

You’ll then descend to Jefferson Park, a fantastic place to spend the afternoon exploring and swimming in one of the five lakes. Camping (with your permit) is allowed at designated campsites.

You’ll then leave the park and hike largely through recently burned forest. Descend to Milk Creek before a large ascent takes you above Pamelia Lake, then Hunts Cove with Hunts and Hanks Lakes below.

You’ll soon have another stunning view of Mount Jefferson, this time looming large to the north. Continue along the PCT toward the next mountain, Three Fingered Jack.

The trail crosses the northern shoulder of this mountain before continuing around its west side.

From here its a gentle descent down to the Santiam Pass Trailhead where you’ll leave the Mount Jefferson Wilderness and the hike comes to an end. Hopefully you have a shuttle waiting here, but if not you can always hitch a ride eastward to the nearby town of Sisters.