Clear Lake Resort

In the summer months, this sparkling lake in the Cascades is a great place to fish, paddle (no motorized boats allowed), hike and mountain bike. While the clear waters might seem tempting to jump in to, the nearly freezing temperature of the lake makes it unsuitable for swimming. A picnic shelter, built by the Civilian Conservation Corp, is at the day use area near the resort. Osprey and bald eagles, and native cutthroat trout call the lake home. Non-native rainbow and brook trout are also found in the lake. The "lake born of fire," is the headwaters of the McKenzie River and was formed 3,000 years ago when lava from Sand Mountain reached the river and backed up water to form the lake. The original forest lining the riverbanks was submerged. Remnants of some of these submerged trees still stand under 120 feet of water and are visible from the trail and by boat. View more Popular Lakes & Rivers ACTIVITIES Biking Camping Fishing Hiking Picnicking