Name: Cast Lake Trail #796
Rating: 3.0

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Features Fall Colors · Lake · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

If accessing Cast Lake Trail from Burnt Lake south trailhead, a Northwest Forest Pass is not required to park. Accessing the trail from Burnt Lake north or Riley Horse Camp area requires a NWFP. All visitors must obtain a self-issued Wilderness Use Permit at the trailhead.

Description

Cast Lake Trail #796, at just over a half mile long, is an easy trail leading into a small alpine lake on the west side of Mt. Hood Wilderness offering wildflowers and a view of Mt. Hood from parts of the lake. Getting to the trail is a much longer undertaking. The shortest route to the Cast Lake Trail is from the south end of Burnt Lake Trail #772, off of Hwy 26, leaving from the trailhead at Forest Road 2627-207 on Enola Hill. Hike 2.4 miles northeast on Burnt Lake Trail #772 to its junction with Devil’s Tie Trail #767. Go left (north) on Devil’s Tie Trail #767 for 0.3 mile to Zigzag Mountain Trail #775. Go right (north) on Zigzag Mountain Trail #775 for 0.2 mile to its junction with Cast Lake Trail #796 on your left. The trail climbs 0.2 mile before dropping 0.3 mile to Cast Lake.

The trail splits near the lake. The trail to the right leads to the north end of the lake with camping areas on the bluffs overlooking the north and east side of the lake. The trail to the left leads to the south end of the lake. The lake is slowly being reclaimed by the surrounding meadow and subalpine forest. Mt. Hood views are becoming more screened over time. Equestrians may be found on this trail since it is part of a loop ride from Riley Horse Campground.