If you want to escape to a lovely little lake this fall, this is the hike that is calling your name. You are not going to get a lot of fall colors on the hike, but cooler temperatures and smaller crowds make it the perfect time to travel this lovely trail in the Mount Hood National Forest. Mirror Lake is a classic Northwest hiking destination, and something every Portlander must experience at least once. This fall is your time.

Located right off of US 26, this spot gets a lot of traffic in the summer, but things begin to slow down in the fall, making it the perfect time to tackle the hike.

Alexander Granholm / Flickr The 2.9-mile hike is rated as easy and a perfect adventure for a sunny autumn afternoon.

At the end of the trail, when you reach the namesake lake, you will be treated to some stunning views of Mt. Hood.

Appalachian Dreamer / Flickr The highest point on the trail is 4,100 feet, making it accessible well into late fall. By winter, it transforms into a premier snowshoeing destination.

To access the trail, you can park in the trailhead parking area right off the highway.

Amy Meredith / Flickr

The trail, which gains 780 feet of elevation throughout the trip, leads you through the thick forest.

Amy Meredith / Flickr The well-graded trail is easy to navigate and suitable for children, backpackers, and anyone with a sense of adventure.

While much of the hike is in a deep forest, it will open up a bit, and a series of switchbacks will take you up the slopes and provide you with some stellar views.

Amy Meredith / Flickr Be sure to check out Zigzag Valley far below once you complete the climb.

When you are getting close to the lake, you will hear a creek in the distance.

Amy Meredith / Flickr At 1.4 miles in, you will reach the lake and have the opportunity to take the loop around the lake.

If you are planning on a picnic at the lake, head to the east shore where many great spots to sit and enjoy the view await.

Amy Meredith / Flickr

There is a marsh boardwalk along the south end of the lake that is a must-see.

Amy Meredith / Flickr And pretty much every direction you see it from, Mt. Hood will look amazing.

You will also have some great views of Tom Dick and Harry Mountain throughout your hike, as it towers in the background.

Amy Meredith / Flickr If you want a longer hike, you can even continue on to the mountain’s 5.8-mile trail which leads to its west summit.

For some of the best views of Mt. Hood around, this lake hike to Mirror Lake is a winner.

Rob DeGraff / Flickr

As with any trip into the woods, be sure to be a good visitor and pack out anything you bring in and leave the trails just like you found them. Have you ever visited this stunning lake? What is your favorite hike near Portland?

Alexander Granholm / Flickr

The 2.9-mile hike is rated as easy and a perfect adventure for a sunny autumn afternoon.

Appalachian Dreamer / Flickr

The highest point on the trail is 4,100 feet, making it accessible well into late fall. By winter, it transforms into a premier snowshoeing destination.

Amy Meredith / Flickr

The well-graded trail is easy to navigate and suitable for children, backpackers, and anyone with a sense of adventure.

Be sure to check out Zigzag Valley far below once you complete the climb.

At 1.4 miles in, you will reach the lake and have the opportunity to take the loop around the lake.

And pretty much every direction you see it from, Mt. Hood will look amazing.

If you want a longer hike, you can even continue on to the mountain’s 5.8-mile trail which leads to its west summit.

Rob DeGraff / Flickr

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