As is obvious, there are a couple of ways to do the Badger Lake. Because I've already covered the Gumjuwac Saddle hike on this CD (see Hike 50), I'll write this narrative from Gumjuwac Saddle.

Trail #458 is across the road from where you park and a bit south. Don't get mixed up with Trail #480, which is a bit to the north of Trail #458. Your Trail #458 climbs for just a short distance before descending into the valley below. You will be hiking mostly in a timbered environment. From time to time you will have brief views of the surrounding areas, but for the most part, you'll be hiking in forest for about the first mile and a half.

At about 1.5 miles, you'll begin the serious descent into Badger Lake. For a while you'll be hiking in a more open area with some great vistas or the eastern Oregon flatland to the east, and of Badger Lake itself
below you. You will also be able to catch glimpses of Mt Jefferson
peeking over the horizon to the south.

At about 2.6 miles you'll come to the junction of Trails #458 and #479. Just keep straight ahead and follow the little used Trail #458 to the lake shore. There is an unmaintained road to Badger Lake, so you'll see vehicles across the lake from where you are. To return to your vehicle, just reverse your journey and enjoy.

Whether you approach this from on Hwy 35 going south out of Hood River, or if you are coming north from Hwy 26 near Government Camp, watch for the bridge near what was the Robin Hood Campground.

The trailhead is on the east side of the road and on the north side of the bridge.

If you desire to begin the hike at Gumjuwac Saddle, then take Hwy 35 until you come to Road 44. Turn east on Road 44 and follow it for about 3 miles to Road 4410. Turn right on 4410 and follow for about 6 miles. You will come to a junction where you need to bear right on Road 3550. This is a very primitive road, so be aware. Follow this road another 2 miles or so to the trailhead. The trail is on the east side of the road. Parking is on the west side of the road and is ample.

Click on the link below to see a map taking you to the trailhead.

Map Directions Vicinity Map To contact the Mt. Hood NF for current information: Click Here.