Heading out from the Whitewater Trailhead located off of Highway 22, we opted for the 5.5 mile hike in to Jefferson Park. Mike and I got a late start out of Portland, so we ended backpacking the majority of this trail in the dark. It certainly took longer to reach our campsite in the darkness, but we were happy to have avoided the 90 degree heat earlier in the day. If you are planning on staying overnight at Jefferson Park, you are required to reserve your campsite ahead of time. For two nights, it cost us $6.00. From what I've read, the Forest Service instituted fee sites due to the increased traffic in this area. Many of the areas around the campsites are closed for restoration.
The summer is the busy season in this area, every campsite was full and we ended up chatting with several Forest Rangers throughout our two day stay. On Saturday morning we set off to explore the surrounding area. We ended up following the PCT for two hours or so before emerging at an insane vista named "Park Ridge". The photos of Mt. Jefferson with the glacial lake were taken at this high point. Following a hike up Park Ridge, we ventured down to Russell Lake and went for a swim. This is definitely an area you can day hike, but it is so much more fun to overnight. You will have more energy to explore other areas of the PCT and see some amazing views. The one downside to camping here at the end of July is all of the mosquitoes, definitely bring bug spray and if you are really cool bring your bug hat. Enjoy the pictures!
As a side note, I probably will not go backpacking with 2 dogs again, our tent was way too small for that.
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| A view from our hike in. |
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| The queen bee. |
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| Campsite numero 11 |
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| Lola & the boys going for a swim. |
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| Russell Lake |
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| Path to Scout Lake. |
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| Indian paintbrush for days. |
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| At the top of Park Ridge |
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