Trillium Lake
One of Mount Hood’s most popular and picturesque lakes is not far off the beaten path
Trillium Lake Campground
OVERVIEW
A magnet for people on a summer day, Trillium Lake offers an ideal place for paddling, hiking, fishing and sunning.
ADDRESS
Trillium Lake Loop Trail #761
Government Camp, OR 97028
40 minutes from Mt. Hood Alpine Chalet
FIELD NOTES + INSIDER TIPS
If you’re not afraid of a crowd, plan to spend a summer afternoon at Trillium Lake. Ten minutes south of Government Camp, the water is clear and a comfortable temp (for us PNW locals that is!) to swim. And however you plan to be in the water here — whether by tube, paddle board, kayak, canoe, or raft — the views of Mt. Hood are equally striking from all angles.
There is more to do at Trillium Lake than can possibly be done in a day, so decide ahead (rock/paper/scissors if needed) and plan to return again. Some popular choices: Hike around the Trillium Lake Trail (a pretty easy 2 miles, about 30 min depending on your pace), boat/float (bring your own or rent there), fish for trout from the piers, and picnic along the shore. There is also cross country skiing and snowshoeing to be had along the 4.7 mile Trillium Lake Winter Loop trail. Whatever the season, this is a fun place to play.
In addition, it’s a very family and pet friendly destination. You may even spot a cat or two on paddle boards! We did. Plus our favorite-ever dog sighting…
THE MERDOODLE!
Getting Here
Follow signs to Trillium Lake, about ten minutes south of Government Camp along Hwy 26. The later in the day you arrive, the more competitive parking spots are to come by but we’ve never had an issue (just a longer walk from the car). A day-use parking permit is required ($10 onsite) unless you have a day/annual NW Forest Pass, which can be purchased on the way at the Hoodland Thriftway in Welches.
What to Bring
* Items circled are provided for guests staying at Mt. Hood Alpine Chalet
Camp Chairs
Beach Towels and Bag
Cooler Backpack with Ice Packs
Picnic Food and Bevs (blanket optional, there are some picnic tables)
Swim essentials: life Jackets, swim suits, water shoes, sunscreen, dry bag, etc. (life jackets provided with rentals)
Tubes or other inflatable gear for the lake (no motor boats/devices of any kind)
Fishing gear, hiking shoes, or other essentials based on your to-do wish list for the day!
Camera to capture the views, the smiles, and any especially silly, relaxing, or adventurous moments. When you do, we’d love to see them - tag us @mthoodalpinechalet to share!
If you don’t bring your own lake gear, you can rent paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes from Mt. Hood Outfitters (book in-person only, first-come first-serve). See below image for 2023 summer rates and hours, subject to change. For questions, email info@mthoodoutfitters.com.
