The world has opened up to a certain extent and now we can travel freely within the United States. However, I found myself not wanting to venture too far away from home. So I searched for day trips that were close to where I lived and soon realized there were a lot of activities that I have never experienced before.
I found a place that was only 2.5 hours away and looked like it offered many activities. That place was Clear Lake Oregon. Looking at the pictures online, I was pulled into the beauty surrounding the lake and the lake itself.
Nestled in the Willamette National Forest Clear Lake was formed by lava flow that blocked McKenzie River. McKenzie River is fed by snow run off from Mount Washington and is very cold. As the eruption happened it burned the forest down and then when the lava hit the ice cold water of McKenzie River, the lava cooled rapidly, creating a blockage which backed the water up into the burned forest, creating Clear Lake. The water is so clear you can peer down into the deep water and still see the preserved forest hidden beneath. The lake is stocked with trout and you are welcome to fish, and if you are lucky like I was, you could see the trout jumping up out of the water to feed on the insects floating just above the surface
Clear Lake Resort is very rustic, you can rent a cabin but you need to bring your own bedding, it’s better than sleeping on the ground in a tent. The resort offers boat rentals, no motor boats are allowed on the lake. Instead of hiking the 4.6 mile loop around the lake I decided to rent a row boat.
I really wanted to experience kayaking, but the small size of the boat and my inability to bend my right knee intimidated me, so I opted to look into row boats. Putting on my life vest that was provided with the boat rental, I ventured out to the dock and was able to get myself into the rocking metal row boat without tipping it over.
I have never rowed a boat in my life and so I was excited to try something new. I am sure that the people watching me were laughing hysterically because I basically pushed off of the dock and rowed in a circle for fifteen minutes until I could figure out how to use the paddles. I was undeterred as I slowly inched my way into the middle of the lake where I stopped to have a picnic and enjoy the view of the surrounding lava formations and looking at the local birds dipping and diving into the water to catch their lunch. The water is crystal clear and you are able to see the forest beneath the boat. The beautiful and calm lake is a perfect way to slow down and relax after a long hectic work week.
This is a family, and pet friendly area but they prohibit swimming because the lake is so cold. The lake is about 142 acres with a depth of 175 feet, experienced divers can dive beneath the surface and discover the wonders of the preserved forest.
The fully stocked lake is ideal for fishing and you can see many people fishing from the volcanic laden shore and from boats floating on the lake.
If being on the water isn’t your thing, you can enjoy the beauty of the area by hiking around the lake. Clear Lake Loop Trail is about 4.6 miles and there are clearly marked signs to help you identify the unique geology of the area.
This is my first adventure in over a year! I enjoyed being in the outdoors once again and was humbled by the beauty that surrounded me. I am looking forward to visiting again. If you are in the area I would highly suggest giving Clear Lake a visit.
Happy travels everyone!
~Joy
Link to resort https://linnparks.com/parks/clear-lake-resort/