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Jefferson Park in the Mt Jefferson Wilderness is Still Beautiful Despite Fires
Two Fires in Eight Years Have Impacted Jefferson Park
For those who enjoy hiking in the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness, one of the most treasured locations to see has been Jefferson Park. Located at the base of Mt. Jefferson, Oregon's second tallest peak, the beauty of the meadow and the reflection of Mt. Jefferson in the multiple lakes has been the destination for campers and day hikers for many years. In 2017, the Whitewater Fire destroyed 11,500 acres, much of which was near the Whitewater trailhead and surrounding forest. However, in 2020, the devastating Santiam Fire, which ballooned to 402,274 acres and destroyed several towns, over 1500 structures and killed 5 people was among the worst fires in Oregon's history. Access to Jefferson Park remained closed for several years after this fire, but has since reopened.
The hike to Jefferson Park from the Whitewater trailhead takes hikers through 4 miles of burned forest before coming to Whitewater Creek where hikers need to cross via stones or logs laid across the creek. There are signs of life returning to the burned area, although it will take many decades before the forest is restored to what it was before the fires. The Whitewater trail joins with the Pacific Crest Trail before reaching the park and once again hikers have to cross Whitewater Creek, this time via a bridge.
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It is shortly after crossing the bridge that hikers actually enter the meadow which is Jefferson Park. There are sections of the surrounding forest that are burned, but also many sections which remain beautiful and alive. Several side paths provide access to Bay, Scout, Park and Rock Lakes, all clean and clear alpine lakes with sandy bottoms with many camping areas nearby. Russell Lake is at the far western end of the park and provides outstanding reflections of Mt. Jefferson. There are campsites around Russell Lake as well. For those who hike from the Whitewater Trailhead to Russell Lake and back, plan on 13 miles and over 2300 feet of elevation gain.
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