Winter Backpack to Diamond View Lake

Diamond View Lake is relatively unknown compared to many of the other lakes in the Oregon Cascades, yet the views it delivers of Diamond Peak are top-notch. While it can also be done as a summer backpack, winter brings out the best aspects of the scenery - low-angle light on Diamond Peak, long nights and crisp skies for star gazing, and complete solitude only 5 miles into the wilderness.

The trail starts at the Trapper Creek Trailhead, which is across the road from the Shelter Cove Resort on Odell Lake (making the trailhead easy to find). Drive just past the turn-off to the resort to park in a small clearing on the right. To start the hike, head across the railroad tracks; just past the treeline on the other side, there will be signs for the wilderness area (a self-issued permit is required during the summer months, but not during the winter).

After a quarter mile, keep left at the signed fork to continue towards Diamond View Lake. From here, the trail climbs steadily but moderately all the way to the lake. The first two miles follow the small gorge created by Trapper Creek, providing some nice views of the creek. Fresh snow blanketing the forest is an added bonus to doing this trail in winter.

Once you reach the lake, there are several established campsites sandwiched between the lake and the trail that offer fire rings and wood-cut seating. Put on your warm layers, brew some hot chocolate, and relax as the sun sets and the stars begin to shine over the mountain.