Pretty and picteresque.. It gets quite crowded on summer weekends. Get there as early as possible.. BBQ and kayak.. Enjoy your day..
Trillium Lake is a classic spot and if you have never been, it is always worth at least one visit. Picturesque views of Mt. Hood over the lake, often with pristine reflections, make this spot an iconic bucket list worthy destination. Campgrounds are decent, what you’d expect in the area. The lake is great for swimming in the summer, and the area is fantastic to snowshoe in the winter (be advised the gate to the road closes in the winter and you will be trekking through snow). All in all, a lovely place, especially if you like to take photos. It can get insanely crowded during the summer months especially on weekends, so be prepared for that. The area also sees litter from said crowds, which is disappointing. Please leave no trace :)
If you are sightseeing or vacationing in the area, a stop at Trillium Lake is hands down the best view of Mt. Hood. It's also a great day-use lake for locals, with kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the small lake. If you are looking for a Mt. Hood photo op on a clear day, I highly recommend Trillium Lake around mid to late morning when the sun will be behind you as you look across the lake to Mt. Hood to the north. One word of warning, though: On sunny summer weekends this place can get VERY crowded, with parking at a premium and long walks from your car to the lake.
Trillium Lake is tranquil, peaceful spot, just a couple miles off the main highway. It undoubtedly provides great views of Mt. Hood.... IF the mountain is not obscured by clouds. If it's cloudy, the lake is still nice, but nothing very special. In such instances, you might as well save your time and give it a pass unless you're keen to fish or hike around the lake.
Trillium Lake is a short drive from Mt. Hood. The $5 day use fee may be paid at the boat ramp entrance or further south at the parking area used by fishermen and walkers. Visitors may walk the 2-mile Trillium Shoreline Trail, fish, or just sit and enjoy the beauty of Mt. Hood. On a beautiful blue-sky morning, the reflection of Mt. Hood in the still lake waters is breathtaking!
