Overview
The Strawberry Lake Trail is the signature hike of the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness in Malheur National Forest, leading 1.9 miles to an alpine lake that earns consistent praise as one of eastern Oregon's most beautiful natural features. The lake sits in a glacial cirque at 6,365 feet, backed by granite cliffs and talus slopes with Strawberry Mountain rising beyond.
The trail starts from Strawberry Campground south of Prairie City and gains elevation steadily through ponderosa pine and subalpine fir before opening onto the lake basin. The route is short enough for most hikers but scenic enough that many people linger for an hour or more before turning back.
The Route
Trailhead to Strawberry Creek (Mile 0 to 0.6)
The trail begins at the upper end of Strawberry Campground and climbs through ponderosa pine, gaining elevation immediately. At about mile 0.6, the trail crosses Strawberry Creek on a footbridge. This is a good water source and a natural rest point.
Creek to Wilderness Boundary (Mile 0.6 to 1.2)
Above the crossing, the trail steepens through a mixed forest of subalpine fir and Engelmann spruce. The wilderness boundary is marked at about mile 1.2. Beyond here, the terrain opens and wildflowers appear on the slopes above the creek drainage.
Approach to the Lake (Mile 1.2 to 1.9)
The final approach crosses open slopes with views back toward Prairie City and the surrounding high desert. Strawberry Lake comes into view suddenly from a small bench above the inlet. The lake is clear enough to see the bottom in the shallower sections near the shore.
The turnaround is at the lake, though many hikers continue 0.8 miles further to Strawberry Falls, a 60-foot cascade above the lake. Return via the same route.
When to Hike
Late June through July is the primary season after snowmelt. Wildflowers are strongest in late June and early July on the slopes approaching the lake. The lake water is cold and snowmelt-fed.
August through September offers reliable access, warm afternoon temperatures, and good fishing. The lake remains ice-free through October in most years.
Before late June, snow often covers the upper trail. Check conditions with the Blue Mountain Ranger District in John Day.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water for this relatively short hike. Water from Strawberry Creek is available but treat or filter before drinking. The lake water is clean by alpine standards but should also be treated.
Sun protection is important on the open slopes near the lake, which receive intense high-elevation sun. A fishing license is needed for trout fishing in Strawberry Lake.
Trailhead Access
The Strawberry Campground Trailhead is 12 miles south of Prairie City on Forest Road 6001, a paved road turning to gravel for the last few miles. Accessible by standard passenger vehicles in dry conditions. Prairie City has basic services including a gas station and small grocery.
No permit required (as of 2026). Dogs allowed on leash.
Nearby
For a longer day, continue from Strawberry Lake to the Little Strawberry Lake Trail for a more remote wilderness experience. The Strawberry Mountain Summit departs from the same trailhead for those planning a full summit day.
Check conditions at Checking Conditions Before You Go before visiting. Practice Leave No Trace 7 Principles around the fragile lake margins.