Hike to Jorn Lake

The hike to Jorn lake was the first venture we took into the Jefferson Wilderness. It was a three day trip around the Marion Lake sub-basin. The overall round trip length was about 14.5 miles, and the hike to Jorn lake was about 23.3 kilometers. We started at the Marion Lake trailhead (trail 3436) which provides access to the Jefferson Wilderness, and all its subsequent trails.

The Start

This trailhead has a five dollar a day parking fee and wilderness self issue permit is also needed. The start of the hike is through cool section of Douglas- Fir, Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar and Pacific fir forest which continues on up to Marion Lake. The first mile rises gently to the first switch back which levels back out at Lake Ann. There is a rocky section of the trail where Lake Ann drains out of which may give old hikers a little trouble. Since, this trail is the closest access to Marion Lake you can expect to see more hikers and even some hikers that pack boats.

First Look at Marion Lake

Marion lake is the largest lake in the immediate area and is the end location for many hikers. From this point the trail slowly departs from the contour of Marion Lake and begins to ascend to the eight lakes basin in which there are several switchbacks. About half a mile passed the Pine Ridge Trail (3443) the Jorn Lake trail enters a region that experienced a forest fire.

2.3 miles into the hike gives a first look at Marion lake.

A look a Three Fingered Jack

This point is about 5 miles in on the way to Jorn Lake. The image really puts into perspective the vast devastating power of forest fires.

Jorn Lake

Looking at Mt.Jefferson

Another Look Back at Jack

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A last look at Marion

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