Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
2,064.00 ft (629.11 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
31.30 mi (50.37 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Timothy Lake to Frog Lake Loop is a 31.3-mile route southeast of Portland, Oregon. The route passes through scenic pine forests and features several tranquil lakes. This hike can either be done as an overnight backpacking trip or as a long day hike. It is a popular location for running, hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding (mountain bikes are prohibited on the PCT).

The route begins at the John Graham Campground / Trailhead and follows Timothy Lake Trail around the west side of the lake. From Timothy Lake Trail, you will follow the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) north to Frog Lake. On the way, you will be able to see Mount Jefferson (10,502'), the second tallest mountain in the state of Oregon.  

After leaving Frog Lake, you will retrace your steps back to Timothy Lake. Rather than following the Timothy Lake Trail back to the John Graham Trailhead, remain on the PCT and hike along the east side of Timothy Lake. 

It would be easy to adjust the distance and personalize this route. For example, if you want to cut the mileage in half, you could arrange a shuttle and get picked up (or dropped off) at Frog Lake. 

CAMPING OPPORTUNITIES

There are several campgrounds and campsites encountered on the route making it easy to plan an overnight backpacking trip.  

  • The John Graham Trailhead can accommodate camping for both hikers and horseback riders.  

  • Timothy Lake is surrounded by several different campgrounds that are available upon reservation. 

  • Frog Lake Campground features a day use picnic area and a campground available for reservation. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Timothy Lake Campground

Frog Lake Day Use / Picnic Site

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Days

2

Pros

Multiple Lakes. Scenic Campgrounds.

Cons

Some areas may be crowded.

Trailhead Elevation

3,402.00 ft (1,036.93 m)

Highest point

4,196.00 ft (1,278.94 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Horseback riding
Bird watching
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

Yes

Suitable for

Horseback

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Mt. Hood + Clackamas River Area, Oregon
Mount Hood National Forest
Oregon, Mt. Hood + Clackamas River Area

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Mt. Hood + Clackamas River Area, Oregon
Oregon, Mt. Hood + Clackamas River Area
Mt. Hood + Clackamas River Area, Oregon

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