Mt. Hood National Forest Bear Lake Hike Hike 02 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. A Virtual Hike in the Mt Hood National Forest All for the love of hiking!