Length: 2.6 miles round trip Elevation Change: 228' gain then 150' loss Season: Late Spring thru Fall Difficulty: Moderate Permit: NW Forest Pass Required Features:
The southern approach to Bear Lake is quite simple compared to the grueling climb
out of the Columbia River Gorge on the north approach. From the trail head it is a
short half mile walk through dense forest to the junction to the lake. Soon you
will come out into an open rocky area before re-entering the dense forest. As you
descend to the lake, you will get occasional outstanding views of the lake and
Mt Bear behind it. This is a short yet very rewarding hike.