Timothy Lake

Timothy Lake was formed when Pacific General Electric built a dam in 1956 to regulate water flow to Lake Harriet 21 miles down stream. This picturesque Cascade lake is located off of NFS Rd 4280 and has both developed and undeveloped campgrounds located in various areas around the lake. The Pacific Crest Trail runs the length of the east side of the lake where hungry, trail-worn thru hikers travel, excited to get to Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood to take advantage of their renowned all-you-can eat buffet.

We have thoroughly enjoyed running this multi-use trail twice and it is not surprising to run into occasional mountain bikers and horseback riders. The first time we ran the trail was for a race course inspection/training run while the second time was as entrants in the Mt. Hood 25K, a popular race held each July (but, unfortunately cancelled this summer due to Covid-19). The 15.5 mile trail has little elevation gain or loss and the race course actually leaves Timothy Lake for about half the mileage. So, if you are in the mood for a shorter run, you can slice a few miles off by running the PCT section that skirts the water.

Starting on the Miller Trail at the Clackamas Ranger Station, we merged onto the Headwaters Trail which circumnavigates marshy Clackamas Lake. From this point it was onto the Old 1916 Trail where there are some mild elevation gains and losses before beginning a long, gently flowing descent leading to a brief intersect with the PCT. From here you cross the bridge over the inlet that, in part, comes from Little Crater Lake – a colorful, very small lake that looks nothing like its larger namesake, but worth the side trip if you have time.

After rounding the north arm, the Timothy Lake Trail runs above the shoreline through the trees for 4 miles past several undeveloped campsites and above Meditation Point, a small peninsula pointing to the middle of the lake. The trail from the north arm to the dam is flat and fast and seems to go by quickly.

Crossing the dam, diagonal to the right onto the final four mile section of trail. If you hug the water here, you will find your way back, but you will end up running through crowded campsites and add an extra mile to your journey. Whereas, if you stay uphill from the water, you run through quiet forest away from the crowds. This final leg is a slight climb back through scenic forest to the ranger station.

Finishing races is always rewarding and the after party at the Mt. Hood race is one of the best!!