Overview
The Little Strawberry Lake Trail extends the classic Strawberry Lake hike an additional 0.8 miles above the lower lake, climbing to a second and more secluded alpine lake at 7,100 feet in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. While Strawberry Lake draws the most visitors in Malheur National Forest, Little Strawberry Lake sees a fraction of that traffic even on summer weekends.
The lake sits in a tight granite cirque with talus walls on three sides and a steep inlet stream dropping from the ridge above. The setting is classic high-country Oregon wilderness: austere, rocky, and quiet. This trail is also the first leg of the full Strawberry Mountain Summit route.
The Route
Trailhead to Strawberry Lake (Mile 0 to 1.9)
The first 1.9 miles follow the standard Strawberry Lake Trail, described in detail in the Strawberry Lake Trail guide. Gain 700 feet to the lower lake, which serves as a natural rest stop.
Strawberry Lake to Little Strawberry Lake (Mile 1.9 to 2.7)
Above Strawberry Lake, the trail climbs steeply on rocky switchbacks through subalpine fir and exposed granite. The grade is more sustained than the lower trail. Little Strawberry Lake comes into view after a short bench traverse at approximately 7,100 feet.
The lake is cold, rocky, and often partially shaded by the surrounding cirque walls. A small flat area on the east shore provides a resting spot.
Return via the same route.
When to Hike
July through September is the primary window. Snow typically persists on the slopes above Strawberry Lake into late June or early July. Little Strawberry Lake may hold ice on its surface through mid-July.
August offers the most reliable conditions with snow-free trails and warm afternoons.
Before checking current snow conditions, do not assume the upper lake is accessible even after Strawberry Lake is clear.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 2 liters of water. Both lakes are available as water sources but treat or filter all backcountry water before drinking. Individual needs vary.
Trekking poles are useful on the steep rocky section between the two lakes. Layers are recommended even in August, as the cirque creates a cool, shaded microclimate.
Trailhead Access
The Strawberry Campground Trailhead is 12 miles south of Prairie City on Forest Road 6001. No permit required (as of 2026). Dogs allowed on leash.
Nearby
Continue beyond Little Strawberry Lake to the Strawberry Mountain Summit for a demanding but rewarding full-day extension. The Canyon Creek Meadows Trail approaches the wilderness from the north and provides a different experience of the same high country.
Always check conditions before your trip at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Follow Leave No Trace 7 Principles in the fragile cirque environment.