Demaris Lake

Demaris Lake acts as a sheltered base camp for nearby access to the Chambers Lakes, a series of seven cobalt blue and windswept alpine lakes resting above 7,000 feet in the Three Sisters Wilderness. The Chambers Lakes, flanked by Middle Sister and South Sister volcanic peaks, are some of the highest accessible lakes in the Cascades. The summits of both peaks can be reached without technical mountaineering knowledge, and they are thus heavily frequented. In addition to the impressive peaks and pristine alpine lakes, the area is home to nearly half of Oregon’s glaciers (15 in total).

Demaris and the Chambers Lakes can be accessed via the Pole Creek Trail #4072. Make sure to fill out a free wilderness permit at the self-service station before you begin. In September 2012, a lightning-induced fire consumed 26,000 acres of the Pole Creek area, the effects of which are still very evident. Also, depending on the time of year, there are several small stream crossings that will need to be navigated to reach your destination. After 4.6 miles, you will cross a small stream and hit the junction for either Demaris or Camp Lake. At the junction, take a left for Demaris Lake, which is just over a mile away.

The lake offers excellent backcountry camping opportunities, both along the shore and away from the lake. Most of these spots are sheltered from the wind. From here, the Chambers Lakes are just 1.5 miles to the west. They can be reached by a cross-country hike, but make sure to bring a compass and a map.