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Sky Lakes Wilderness Trail

Fremont-Winema National Forest, Oregon · 3 min read

Distance
8.8 mi
Elevation Gain
1,600 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through September
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
6 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Fee Required
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Multiple alpine lakes in a volcanic plateau wilderness
  • Pacific Crest Trail intersection at the lake basin
  • Views toward Crater Lake National Park from high points
  • Oregon's largest wilderness at 116,300 acres
  • Good trout fishing in the wilderness lakes

Overview

The Sky Lakes Wilderness covers 116,300 acres of volcanic plateau terrain on the east side of the Cascades, sharing a boundary with Crater Lake National Park in Fremont-Winema National Forest. The wilderness contains over 200 lakes and ponds in glacially and volcanically formed basins, fed by snowmelt from surrounding ridges. The Pacific Crest Trail traverses the wilderness from north to south, providing a long-distance backbone for multi-day routes.

The Cold Springs Trailhead approach reaches the main lake cluster in 4.4 miles, passing through a transition from ponderosa pine to mountain hemlock forest before entering the volcanic lake basin. This is the most popular entry point into the wilderness and one of the more scenic approaches.

The Route

Cold Springs Trailhead to Wilderness Boundary (Mile 0 to 1.5)

The trail climbs immediately through ponderosa pine and transitions to mixed conifer. The wilderness boundary is at about mile 1.5. The trail here is well-maintained and clearly signed.

Wilderness to First Lakes (Mile 1.5 to 3.5)

The trail continues climbing through mountain hemlock and subalpine fir, reaching the first lakes basin at about mile 3.5. Isherwood, Natasha, and Elizabeth Lakes cluster in this section of volcanic depression terrain. The lakes are clear and cold.

Pacific Crest Trail Junction (Mile 3.5 to 4.4)

The trail intersects the Pacific Crest Trail at about mile 3.5 in the main lake basin. Following the PCT north for the final 0.9 miles brings you to additional lakes and a viewpoint toward Crater Lake rim country. The natural turnaround is at the high point above the main basin.

Return via the same route.

When to Hike

July through September is the primary season. Snow clears from the wilderness by late June in most years.

September offers the most reliable weather and the clearest views. The lakes are warm enough for brave swimmers in August.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 2 liters of water. The wilderness lakes provide water throughout; treat or filter. Individual hydration needs vary.

A fishing license is required for fishing in wilderness lakes. Rainbow trout are present.

Trailhead Access

The Cold Springs Trailhead is on Highway 140 west of Klamath Falls. A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking (as of 2026). Vault restrooms at the trailhead.

No wilderness entry permit required as of 2026. Dogs allowed on leash.

Nearby

The Fourmile Lake Trail accesses the same wilderness from a different trailhead and is worth comparing for a two-day exploration. The Mountain Lakes Loop accesses a separate wilderness area nearby.

Check current conditions at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Follow Leave No Trace 7 Principles in this volcanic lake ecosystem.

Trailhead Parking

Cold Springs Trailhead on Highway 140 west of Klamath Falls. Paved lot with vault toilet. Northwest Forest Pass required for parking as of 2026.

← Back to Fremont-Winema National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Sky Lakes Wilderness Trail take?
Most hikers complete the 8.8-mile round trip in 4 to 6 hours with time at the lakes.
Is the Sky Lakes Wilderness Trail dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are allowed on leash in the Sky Lakes Wilderness.
How crowded is the Sky Lakes Wilderness?
The Sky Lakes Wilderness is busier than most Fremont-Winema destinations due to its proximity to Klamath Falls and Medford and its PCT connection. Summer weekends see moderate use at the main Cold Springs approach. Mid-week visits are significantly quieter.