The summer of 2023 was the season for us to finally visit Eastern Oregon! We spent a weekend visiting the Fossil Beds, Painted Hills, and two waterfalls.
Strawberry Falls was the first waterfall of our trip. This popular trail begins at Strawberry Campground and leads to Strawberry Lake in just 1.2 miles.
The first section of trail contains some steep sections, but the path levels out to follow the lakeshore around to the south end of the lake.
The trail continues all the way around the lake, but waterfall hunters should turn left at the Strawberry Basin-Little Strawberry Lake Trail south junction and head uphill again. This junction is not well marked; our thanks to the person who brought a Sharpie on their hike to help mark the way!
A short distance from here, turn right at another intersection. In less than a mile, Strawberry Falls can be viewed from the trail as it switches back to continue on its way to Little Strawberry Lake.
This is a lovely spot, but it gets even better with a bit of exploring. Carefully cross the creek like my husband did to enjoy the view pictured below.
Or make your way downstream like I did to get this stunning view.
I know it’s not a contest, but my viewpoint wins, don’t you think? Gorgeous!
There are some campsites along the trail, and on our way back, we ate lunch on some logs around a fire pit. It was a peaceful spot near the lake and made for a very pleasant picnic.
Near the north end of the lake, we encountered a fearless chipmunk who had a staring contest with my son! I couldn’t believe how long the little guy stayed still and let us admire him. It was very cool.
An impressive waterfall, a peaceful lake, beautiful mountain views, and brave chipmunks, too… This is definitely a hike that’s worth the drive!
SUMMARY:
My rating: Highly Recommended (3 stars): Waterfall – 3 stars, Trail – 4 stars, Experience – 3 stars
Distance from Beaverton: 5.75 hours southeast
Nearest town: Prairie City
Nearest city: Bend
County: Grant County
Length of round-trip hike: 5 miles. Or if you’d like to return on the opposite side of the lake, I estimate that you would add a half mile. Or if you continue on to Little Strawberry Lake, it should be about 6.5 miles round trip.
Best season to visit: July-October due to the possibility of snow on the ground and road closures
Things to know:
- The road to Strawberry Campground is pretty rough. It is not recommended to take a trailer to the campground or trailhead.
- Fishing is allowed in the lakes, and camping is allowed in the area, as well.
Consider combining this trip with: A visit to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument or Izee Falls
Toilet / Amenities: Toilet at the trailhead
How to get there:
- From Hwy 26 in Prairie City, turn south onto Bridge Street.
- In half a mile, turn right to continue on Bridge Street, which becomes Strawberry Road.
- Follow this road for 11 miles to Strawberry Campground. The parking area for non-campers is on the right. To find the trailhead, walk back out to the road. You’ll be facing the campground; turn right and you’ll be facing the trailhead.
Helpful links:
- https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Little_Strawberry_Lake_Hike
- https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/malheur/recarea/?recid=40160
- https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/oregon/strawberry-lake-and-little-strawberry-lake-trail
- https://www.outdoorproject.com/united-states/oregon/little-strawberry-lake-strawberry-lake-strawberry-falls
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