Clear Lake

Distance: 4.6 mile loop
Clear Lake provide the headwaters of the McKenzie River – Created 3,000 years ago as a result of the Sand Mountain eruption. Lava flows pinched the McKenzie River, damming the freezing water and forming Clear Lake. Scuba divers often submerge over 120 feet deep to find ancient, petrified trees, thousands of years old.

From Portland, take I-5 south until reaching the city limits of Salem. From the Salem area take HWY 22 (exit 253) east towards Detroit Lake. Follow HWY 22 past Detroit as it bends south and connects with HWY 20/126. Stay south, following signs for Clear Lake.

View From Clear Lake Loop

From the parking lot, you can hop on the trail heading in either direction. The 4.6 mile trail circumnavigates Clear Lake, connecting with the uber popular McKenzie River Trail. This portion of the trail is considered one of the premier bike trails in America! You’re bound to see some bikers along the way.  We actually caught a group of hardcore unicyclers gearing up in the parking lot – no joke.

So Clear. So Blue.

Old Fallen Tree

From the south end of Clear Lake, you have the option to remain on the 26 mile McKenzie River Trail. Only one mile south you can catch the 2.6 mile Koosah and Sahalie Falls Loop trail - highly recommended!

Ilan P. in Action!

Clear Lake is a great spot to rent a row boat and relax in calm waters. The resort provides 4 person boats for $15 an hour or $30 for the day. Kayaks and paddle boats are also welcome. No motorized vehicles are allowed on the lake.