These 9 Crystal Clear Alpine Lakes In Oregon Are Absolutely Magical
Tessa Metcalf
Author
Most people don’t know about the many breathtakingly beautiful, clear lakes in Oregon that are speckled throughout the stunning mountain ranges of the Beaver State. These majestic mountaintop lakes are crystal clear and perfectly serene, surrounded by rugged peaks and beautiful alpine forests. Go see these 9 alpine lakes in Oregon. They will blow you away.
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Well, what do you think? Don’t these crystal clear lakes in Oregon have you dreaming of a sublime little lakeside getaway in the Beaver State? There are so many beautiful lakes here in Oregon… which will you visit first?
Want to find out about some more great lakes in Oregon? Check out these 11 gorgeous lakes in Oregon that are demanding your attention.
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More to Explore
clear lakes in Oregon
What are some campsites where I can camp near these crystal clear lakes in Oregon?
Some lakefront campsites in Oregon include:
- Bolan Lake Campground
- Jubilee Lake Campground
- Clear Lake Campground
The Wallowas are one of Oregon's most striking -- and accessible -- natural wonders. Home to majestic mountains, pristine and crystal clear alpine lakes, and verdant forests, there's nowhere in the PNW quite like this range. There are numerous hiking trails in the Wallowas, each offering thrilling views of the majestic mountains. And while we're all for lacing up our shoes and hitting the trails, nothing quite compares to the views you'll get on the Wallowa Lake Tramway. This lift opens for the season in mid-May, and it's a perennial favorite worth enjoying year after year. This unique tram was the steepest four-person gondola in all of North America when it was built in 1970; and decades later, it remains a superlative Beaver State attraction. Ogle the views from the top at the aptly named Summit Grill, which sits at the 8,150-foot level of Mt. Howard. And if you can't bring yourself to leave, stay and enjoy amazing, year-round camping at Wallowa Lake State Park, which is located right on the beautiful, cerulean blue lakeshore.
What are some little-known crystal clear lakes in Oregon?
Little Crater Lake is a little-known clear lake in Oregon.
Crater Lake is easily the most well-known lake in Oregon, but it's not the only pristine body of blue in the Beaver State. In Mt. Hood Forest, Little Crater Lake is a pristine oasis that’s a total hidden treasure. Much like its big sibling, Little Crater Lake is a resplendent, dazzling body of clear, blue water. However, unlike Crater Lake, which is the largest lake in the U.S., Little Crater Lake is just 100 feet wide and 45 feet deep. It’s a natural wonder itself and it is definitely a bucket list must for all Oregon adventurers! The best part? The hike to Little Crater Lake is less than half a mile long, and there’s no fee to access the trailhead or lake, making it one of the most accessible adventures in Oregon. Oh -- and visiting this crystal clear lake in Oregon is free, too.