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Crawfish Lake Trail

Whitman National Forest, Oregon · 3 min read

Distance
2.8 mi
Elevation Gain
400 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through October
Est. Time
1-2 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
1 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
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

  • Quiet alpine lake with good trout fishing
  • Views of the Elkhorn Mountains above the lake
  • Short, easy approach accessible to most hikers
  • Less visited than Anthony Lake with more solitude
  • September huckleberry picking along the approach
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Overview

Crawfish Lake in Whitman National Forest offers a quieter alternative to the busier Anthony Lake area in the Elkhorn Mountains. The short hike delivers a scenic alpine lake with good trout fishing, mountain views, and the huckleberry-rich terrain that characterizes the higher elevations of the Blue Mountains. With less visitor traffic than its neighbor, Crawfish Lake provides solitude that can be difficult to find at the more popular Elkhorn destinations.

The lake sits in a modest basin ringed by lodgepole pine and subalpine fir, with the rocky higher summits of the Elkhorns visible above the treeline. The approach is short enough for an early start followed by hours of fishing or simply sitting at the lake's edge watching the mountains.

The Route

The trail begins at a modest trailhead off Forest Road 7301 and climbs briefly through open forest before descending slightly to the lake. The route is straightforward and easy to follow. The lake shore offers good access in multiple directions for fishing.

What to Expect

The access road requires a high-clearance vehicle in places. The trailhead has no facilities. Carry everything you need including water. The lake's huckleberry areas along the approach produce abundant berries in September: bring a container if visiting in berry season.

Nearby

The Anthony Lake Trail loop is about 3 miles northwest and provides more developed facilities. The Elkhorn Crest Trail offers the area's premier ridge hiking objective for those seeking more elevation.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The easy rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Whitman National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trip Planning

The America the Beautiful pass covers entrance fees at any fee-charging national forest sites. Veterans and permanently disabled individuals may qualify for federal discount passes. For up-to-date trail conditions, closures, and any current fire restrictions in Whitman National Forest, contact the local ranger district or check the USFS website. Conditions can change rapidly in mountain terrain, and advance verification is always worthwhile.

Trailhead Parking

Crawfish Lake Trailhead off Forest Road 7301 southeast of Anthony Lake. Gravel lot with room for 10 vehicles. No fee.

← Back to Whitman National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far is it to Crawfish Lake?
Crawfish Lake is 1.4 miles from the trailhead, making the round trip 2.8 miles with 400 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers reach the lake in under 45 minutes.
Is Crawfish Lake good for fishing?
Crawfish Lake is stocked with rainbow trout. A valid Oregon fishing license is required (as of 2026). The lake sees less pressure than Anthony Lake, potentially offering better fishing. Verify current regulations with ODFW.
How is Crawfish Lake different from Anthony Lake?
Crawfish Lake is smaller, less developed, and sees fewer visitors than Anthony Lake. The access road is rougher and the trailhead has fewer facilities. The trade-off is more solitude and a quieter fishing experience.
When does the access road to Crawfish Lake open?
The access road typically opens in late June or early July depending on snowpack. The Elkhorn Mountains retain snow into early summer. Check road conditions with the Baker City Ranger District before visiting.