Features: The trailhead for this hike is located just a short distance south of the entrance to the Camp Pioneer summer camp for youth.

This hike begins in an obvious parking area, designated as the trail head for the Pine Ridge Trail #3443.

The trail takes you northeast from the parking area and in about a half mile connects to the trail used by the summer camp. You are to bear right, and head east. The trail begins a gentle descent as you will soon cross a small stream then climb over a ridge before descending a couple hundred feet. The trail then levels off as you come to the junction to Trail #3444, which you can take to visit Temple Lake.

It is about a half mile to the lake, but you will loose a couple hundred feet in elevation to reach its shore. The side trip is very rewarding, especially on days when you can see Mt. Jefferson trying to peek over the trees at the north end of the lake.

Obviously, you have to regain the lost elevation you experienced in reaching the lake as you make your way back to the junction to Trail #3443. Bear left, or east, and continue your trek toward Marion Mountain.

Soon you will walk through an area that was burned back in 2003 by a devastating forest fire. You will see alot more damage from that fire when you reach the summit of Marion Mountain. Anyway, continue east for another mile and a half and you will come to the junction of Trail #3435, which is the trail you will take to the summit of Marion Mountain.

You will climb nearly 500 feet in the next mile as you work your way to the top of this mountain. Even before you reach the actual summit, you will have several view points along the way. And when you reach the top of Marion Mountain you are treated to spectacular views of Mt. Jefferson, Marion Lake, and Three Fingered Jack.

This hike is a real treat and so worth the effort to get there! Enjoy.

A panoview from Marion Mountain