Clear Lake Day Use Area: Private Outdoor Adventure in Sisters, OR

Clear Lake Day Use Area, located near Sisters, Oregon, provides a unique outdoor experience centered around a stunning glacial lake known for its crystal-clear, cold waters. This destination stands out in central Oregon’s Cascade Range for offering year-round access to a pristine lake that invites visitors to paddle, hike, and soak in rugged natural beauty without the crowds typically found at more famous sites. Although it lacks a mountain backdrop like some nearby lakes, Clear Lake captivates with its vibrant aquamarine water, remarkable underwater visibility, and peaceful surroundings. It's a favorite spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking the approximately 3.5-mile trail encircling the lake, which offers different perspectives of the water’s clarity and the surrounding mixed conifer forest.

Clear Lake is a remnant of glacial activity, shaped thousands of years ago and fed by snowmelt and cold springs, resulting in water temperatures that remain chilly year-round, making it more suitable for paddling than swimming unless equipped with a wetsuit. The lake is part of a county park with a small resort offering boat rentals and other amenities, open all year, including winter. Visitors often enjoy winter kayaking, taking advantage of quiet off-peak seasons, but parking is limited and can fill up quickly in summer, so early arrival is recommended.

The area also includes picnic tables and vault toilets, but lacks extensive services, emphasizing a more natural, low-impact outdoor experience. It's an ideal destination for visitors who want to immerse themselves in a relatively undisturbed piece of Oregon’s outdoor landscape near Sisters, a gateway town known for its outdoor lifestyle and proximity to the Cascade Mountains. Clear Lake Day Use Area stands out for its clear waters, remote feel, and outdoor adventure options, making it a must-see for paddlers, hikers, and nature lovers exploring the central Oregon Cascades.