Stahlman Point

Stahlman Point is an easily accessible hike not far from Detroit Lake. The hike ascends through second- and old-growth forest to a high viewpoint overlooking the reservoir and Mount Jefferson.

The trail follows an unnamed creek a few hundred feet before diverting into the forest. The young Douglas fir forest soon thins, offering views of nearby Detroit Reservoir. Continue to meander through the verdant, lush forest and its fauna as the trail somewhat levels out, passing through a runoff trough surrounded by several old downed trees. The trail then begins a somewhat steeper incline as it wraps around the contours of the mountains.

In the late spring, enjoy the small trillium flowers alongside the trail and the rhododendrons toward the end of the trail. Three switchbacks ascend the final pitch to Stahlman Point. The last 200 feet are steep and rocky with some exposure.

A fire lookout once stood on a level platform at Stahlman Point. This fire lookout was destroyed in 1966. The pilings are all that remain, offering makeshift stools to sit and enjoy your lunch along with the vast views. Mount Jefferson lies above the town of Idanha and Highway 22 to the east. Mountains and ridges surround Detroit Reservoir to the west.