Yesterday we set out on our first hike of the season: a 3.2-mile roundtrip jaunt to Mirror Lake. It’s a relatively easy hike despite a bunch of switchbacks; the elevation gain is 700′. The reward? A spectacular view of snow-covered Mount Hood looming over the lake, its reflection a reminder of how this beautiful lake got its name.
We actually weren’t sure how the weather was going to turn out. When we left home, the mountain was obscured by clouds, but shortly past the town of Sandy they burned off. Instead, we ended up with crystal clear blue skies, sunshine, and a nice cool breeze. It was probably in the low-mid 60s during the hike – ideal weather, as a matter of fact.
Most of the trail passes through a verdant forest of Douglas firs and pines. Pink rhododendrons were just starting to bloom, as were trilliums and beargrass. Feel free to click on any of the photos below to enlarge/read descriptions.
Mark Petruska 
“The reward? A spectacular view of snow-covered Mount Hood looming over the lake, its reflection a reminder of how this beautiful lake got its name.”
SPECTACULAR indeed, Mark! That photo is beyond faaaaaaaaabulous!!!!
*cheers and applause*
In fact, all these photos are fabulous! I love the one on the lower left-hand side of the collage. It almost looks like an upside down ice cream cone!
Thanks for sharing, bud!
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You’re right, Ron – I see the ice cream cone now! Which means vanilla is dripping all over the forest floor…
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I can see why they call it Mirror Lake. Gorgeous! Great photos Mark!
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Thanks, Jess! Exactly why we waited for a clear day to tackle this hike.
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Looked like a great hike Mark! When I was a Girl Guide I was in the Trillium group so it surprises me whenever anyone points out a trillium now!
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