Pamelia Limited Entry Area

The Pamelia Limited Entry Area, within the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness, requires additional protection in an effort to preserve the natural beauty and wilderness experience; therefore a limited entry quota is in effect. Under this quota, 20 groups are permitted in the area each day, only three of which may be large groups of 9 to 12 people. For these large groups the Pamelia area is broken into three smaller areas — Pamelia Lake, Hunts Cove, and Coyote/Shale Lakes — and only one large group is allowed in each at one time. Permits become available for advanced reservation annually on May 1, for season dates beginning the Friday of the Memorial Day holiday weekend and ending October 31. This unique landscape encompasses crystal clear streams, wildflower meadows and rugged mountain views. The area sits on the western flank of Mt Jefferson (10,497 ft) and is a popular access route for climbers, and it contains a number of lakes, streams and springs. Hiking along the Hunts Creek trail and the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail offers stunning views of the Cascade Crest and Mt Jefferson. Cross-country travel skills are necessary to access the high lakes and mountain peaks. Backpacking, day hiking, mountaineering and horseback riding are the most common forms of recreation during the short summer season, after snow has receded, and opportunities for nature photography abound. Access begins at the Pamelia Trailhead, just off Highway 22. The Pamelia Lake Trail #3439 climbs approximately 800 feet in elevation, at which point it intersects the Hunts Creek Trail #3440 running north and south; both ends connect to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, providing a popular 13.5-mile, day-long loop for hiking or riding. Stunning views of Mt Jefferson are offered from Grizzly Peak (5,799 ft), the location of a historic fire lookout that has since been removed. Visitors should obtain a detailed map of the area before planning a trip, and inquire in advance about trail conditions, particularly early in the season. There are no facilities within the Limited Entry Area or the Wilderness Area. Facilities at the trailhead include parking, bathrooms, picnic tables, and wilderness and interpretive information. Visitors must practice Leave No Trace skills, including properly disposing of human and pet waste and packing and carrying out all trash. Use of the Pamelia Trailhead also requires a recreation pass, such as the Northwest Forest Pass, which must be obtained before arriving at the trailhead — from the Detroit Ranger Station, online (day passes only) or from an authorized vendor. The Pamelia Limited Entry Area is along the West Cascades National Scenic Byway on Highway 22, with many hiking and camping opportunities along the highway. Major attractions include Detroit Lake Reservoir, Oregon's premier recreation lake.