Strawberry Lakes

Strawberry Lakes 

Malhuer National Forest

Strawberry Mountain Wilderness 

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.6 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Best time to go: July-December

About this Hike

This picturesque out-and-back hike begins at the Strawberry Campground where you are greeted by ponderosa pines, fir, and larch trees. The trail eventually opens up to dramatic views of the mountains. Drink in the views at Strawberry Lake then continue up the trail another mile to Strawberry Falls, where Strawberry Creek drops 100-feet. Beyond is the cutoff to Little Strawberry Lake. This tree-lined lake sits at the base of a rock-strewn cliff and provides amazing views.

History of the Area 

The Strawberry Mountain Wilderness is located in the Malhuer National Forest and includes approximately 68,700 acres. In 1975 the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness Area was set aside, and the size of the Wilderness area was almost doubled in 1984.

Getting There

1. From John Day, OR drive east on Highway 26 to Prairie City.

2. Turn right on South Bridge Rd, and then take a second right on Bridge Rd (which turns into Strawberry Rd). 

3. Continue until you reach Strawberry Campground.

Photo by Eli Boschetto