The crystalline pools of Hosmer Lake lie in an eastside forest just off of the Cascade Lakes Highway outside of Bend. This unique lake is already so popular that we hesitate to share it, but its diversity and beauty make it a must-see for paddlers of all skill levels. There are also trails for non-boaters to enjoy the area, but to truly experience Hosmer one needs to take to the water.
Originally known by the uninspiring name of "Mud Lake," wildlife-rich Hosmer was appropriately renamed in honor of a local naturalist. Famous for its peaceful setting and spectacular views, this beginner-friendly lake is only open to electric motors and non-motorized craft. At just under 5000' elevation, access is often blocked by snow until June, and snow will close it again in October.
Arrive early. Come mid-week if you can. The small, potholed parking area is often jam-packed, and it only gets worse as the day goes on. Looking at the parking lot you would think there wouldn't be an inch of space left on the lake, but once on the water there is plenty of room for everyone to set out and explore, birdwatch, or flyfish. This lake is known for its rainbows, its brookies, and... its Atlantic salmon. These were brought in during the 1950s, and they have flourished in their western mountain home. With an average depth of around 3 feet, Hosmer is a prime breeding ground for water insects, so it grows big, healthy fish. This special fishery is flyfishing-only, using barbless hooks, and it's catch-and-release for all species. Be sure to check current regulations at the time of your visit if you plan to fish.
Find your parking spot, pay the fee or display your Northwest Forest Pass, and put in at the boat ramp. The first pool, fringed with bulrushes, seems small and maybe not worth the drive after all; in fact, the entire lake is less than 200 acres. But paddle out into this pool and you will find views of Mt. Bachelor, South Sister, and Broken Top over the lake. Now you're starting to see why you came. Watch in the rushes for shy waterfowl as you explore the perimeter. These rushes shape our experience of the lake; look at a map of Hosmer and it seems much wider and more open than the wandering, creek-like shape seen from a boat.
Now continue into a channel thickly lined with rushes and water plants. Look down into the crystal-clear water; this channel has a slight current, and the fish love it here. Watch them swim and dart after insects as you wind toward the place where the reeds open into pool number two. The water here is shallow, with an exquisite pale-green tint. This is a favorite area for osprey; watch them dive for fish in the clear water. There are some small islands in this pool, and wildlife frequent the lakeshore. Anglers try their luck near the channel, and indeed throughout this entire pool.
Pool number three is small, almost a pond, shallowing out into a large wetland and moist meadow that stretches northward. This is a good area to watch for birds and other wildlife; you may even be lucky enough to spot an otter or sandhill crane. Those wanting a longer paddle can look along the north end for where Quinn Creek empties into the lake. Head upstream for a ways and watch for a pullout on river left (the right side when going upstream). From here a short hike leads to a small "waterfall" (actually a cascade) in the creek. Return to your boat and ride the slight current back into the lake.
Two campgrounds offer simple accommodations at the south end of the lake, South Campground and Mallard Marsh. Most of the sites are reservable, with a few first-come-first-served. It's well worth reserving a spot if you can fit an overnight stay into your itinerary; once the day visitors have left, peace settles over the still waters and the glow of the setting sun touches the mountains. Bring mosquito repellant.
Hosmer is best reached from the town of Bend. Head toward Mt. Bachelor on Century Drive/Highway 46/Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. You will pass Sparks Lake with its stellar birdwatching and interesting lava formations, then a curve in the highway embraces ice-cold, pale blue Devil's Lake. Pass the turnoff for Elk Lake Resort and turn left on Road 4625 to find Hosmer.
This is not the best lake for swimming (remember the original name of "Mud Lake"), but neighboring Elk Lake offers swimming, as well as motorized boating, campgrounds, and a resort. There are countless miles of hiking trails in the area, but their use is limited by a permit system. Trails outside the wilderness boundary are open to everyone, however, including the trails near Sparks and Elk Lakes.
This entire area gets heavy use, but for good reason. Don't be put off by permits and parking issues; take a drive to the drier side of the Cascades and explore Hosmer Lake. Maybe bring a kayak or a fishing pole, perhaps binoculars or your hiking boots. But definitely bring a camera. You will be using it.
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Pool one |
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South Sister, Broken Top, and Mt. Bachelor |
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Into the channel |
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Pool two |

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Hidden at the far end of pool two, the small channel to pool three |
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Quinn Creek |
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As always, see you on the water! |