Swimming Beaches Near Mount Hood in Oregon

Oregon's highest point, Mount Hood, located in the northern reaches of the state, is a dormant volcano surrounded by old growth Douglas firs, winding streams and gorgeous lakes. These nearby lakes afford arresting views of the Mount Hood National Forest, a place where towering evergreens give way to the jagged, snow-covered mountain. On peaceful days, when the wind is calm and the waves are placid, the lakes act as mirrors, reflecting this beautiful scene. For nature lovers, these lakes also provide enticing beaches and ample swimming opportunities.

Timothy Lake

• The largest lake closest to Mount Hood, Timothy Lake lies approximately 15 miles southeast of the mountain. The lake has four main beaches, accessible by several campground day use areas: Gone Creek, Hoodview, Oak Fork and Pine Point. Visitors who wish to swim at these beaches, but do not possess a Northwest Forest Day or Annual Pass, must pay a small fee for each vehicle. Day use fees are paid in cash at the site, and receipts must be placed on each vehicle's front dash. The day use area beaches at Timothy Lake offer only basic amenities, such as restrooms.

Trillium Lake

• Located southeast of Mount Hood, Trillium Lake, one of the smaller lakes in the area, stretches approximately 3,000 feet north to south. Swimming beaches stretch along Trillium Lake's eastern shore, with main access provided by Road 2656. Walking trails leading off Road 2656 take visitors to various private sandbars along the lake. All day visitors to the lake are required to buy an inexpensive vehicle pass -- this includes even those who already possess a Northwest Forest Pass. Facilities at Trillium Lake are limited to a group picnic area and vault toilets. The site is wheelchair accessible, however.

Clear Lake

• Roughly 10 miles south of Mouth Hood, off Highway 26, lies Clear Lake. The lake has a unique shape, long straight shorelines and inlets with lots of shade. While motorized boats are permitted on the lake, they cannot travel at speeds greater than 10 mph. This means limited wakes, which translate into a tranquil environment for beach goers. Like most lakes near Mount Hood, facilities are limited to picnic areas and rudimentary restrooms. Beach goers are expected to bring their own food and take their refuse with them when leaving. Visitors also need to pay the inexpensive day use fee, even if they already have a Northwest Forest Pass.

Lost Lake

• Northwest of Mount Hood, swimmers can head to Lost Lake. Only campers at Lost Lake Campground have access to the swimming beaches, which are found on the lake's eastern edge. The campground is better equipped than other sites in Mount Hood National Forest, with RV, group and tent sites, and considerably more bathrooms. Despite this, the beaches maintain the primitive charm of the other sandy lake shores situated near the mountain. In addition to paddle boat, kayak, canoe and row boat rentals, picnic sites and restrooms are also available.