Echo Point Loop via Boulder Lake Trail #463 and Forest Creek Trail #473(edit)

Overview

Scenic hike to Boulder and Little Boulder Lakes, Bonney Meadows and Echo Point viewpoint in the Mt Hood National Forest. Expect to share the trail with mountain bikers who you can thank for maintaining these trails.

Starting at the Boulder Lake Trailhead it is a short 0.4-mile hike to alluring Boulder Lake. Given its proximity to a trailhead expect crowds, especially on summer weekends. It is possible to hike around the lake, tramping over talus on the west side. Continuing south, Little Boulder Lake is encircled by the 2023 Boulder fire. Expect to hike across downed trees and through fields of fireweed.

Find the logging road east of Little Boulder Lake and follow it south to Forest Creek Trail #473. This trail also passes through the 2023 burn and former clearcuts and then ascends to Echo Point before descending to Bonney Meadows. Head northeast on the Hidden Meadows #472 and clockwise on the Boulder Lake trail #463 or spend time checking out Bonney Meadows.

The Boulder Lake trail turns south and returns to Boulder Lake. Its another short 0.4 miles back to the trailhead on this lollipop loop.

Getting Started

This loop can be started at either the Bonney Meadow Trailhead and Campground or Boulder Lake Trailhead. The road to Bonney Meadow may be rough. The road to the Boulder Lake trailhead is well-graded gravel but there are no facilities.

Taking Children

A hike to Boulder Lake is appropriate for children of all ages.