Summary
Discover Clear Lake, Oregon
Tucked away in Oregon’s Willamette National Forest is a lake with waters as clear as a swimming pool and fascinating wonders hiding underneath.
Formation and History
Oregon’s spring-fed Clear Lake was formed around 3,000 years ago through lava flows that ran from Sand Mountain, creating a natural dam that slowly filled with water. The forests surrounding the lake were submerged over time, remaining today in the form of trunks that extend as far as 120 feet into the water.
Clarity of the Lake
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The lake’s clarity is the result of snow and ice melting from the top of surrounding mountains and filtering through 7,000-year-old lava, slowly running through underground springs before it reaches the lake.
Underwater Exploration
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Thanks to volcanic activity that once shook the area, the lake’s grounds are also covered with volcanic silt that is so thick, it looks like white sand. This, combined with shipwrecks—some of which date back to the 1920s—creates an underwater atmosphere reminiscent of a beach.
Diving and Activity Options
While divers may be drawn to the fascinating underwater scenery, the waters can be chilly, averaging around 37 degrees Fahrenheit. For those not braving the cold, the area offers rowboat rentals ($20 per hour or $45 for a full day for a larger boat that seats up to five people, and $15 per hour or $35 for a smaller boat seating four). Kayaks ($15 per hour or $30 for the day) are available for rent, or you can launch your own for $5. Note that rowboats and kayaks are only available for rent on the same day of arrival at the lake.
Exploring Trails
Visitors can also explore the Clear Lake Loop Trail and McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, both taking you through areas featuring lava flows, volcanic glass, and old forests that bloom with wildflowers from May through June and transform into a vibrant display of colors with vine maples in October.
Driving to Clear Lake
If you’re planning a visit, the route from Willamette Valley provides a picturesque journey through forests while navigating along the McKenzie River, offering plenty of opportunities to explore hot springs and hiking trails along the way.
