Hanks Lake via Hunts Creek Trail 3440 and Pamelia Lake Trail 3439(edit)

Overview

This is a moderate hike in the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness. It is one of the few places where you can experience unburned forest in this wilderness. Note that a permit must be obtained from recreation.gov before hiking or backpacking here.

The trail starts out in shady forest. Rocks and boulders can be seen from the November 2006 debris flow that occurred during a heavy rain event. Reach Pamelia Lake and turn left. At the junction with the Hunts Creek Trail turn right. This trail follows the shore of Pamelia Lake, then follows Hunts Creek before crossing it. There is no footbridge. After crossing the creek the trail ascends via a series of switchbacks.

Reach a junction with the trail to Hunts Cove and turn left. Mt. Jefferson comes into view on the left. The trail crosses the lake outlet then reaches Hanks Lake. A few campsites are available, but a windstorm that knocked down a bunch of trees has diminished the number of sites. If you follow the trail another quarter mile you will reach Hunts Lake where there are a couple of campsites.

Getting Started

The trail starts at the far end of the parking area next to some signboards. The trailhead has a toilet.

Taking Children

This is a long hike for children.