Cougar Peak

  • Easy (around lake)
  • 3.6-mile loop
  • 380 feet elevation gain
  • Open early May through November
  • Use: hikers, horses, bicycles


  • Moderate (to Cougar Peak)
  • 7.6 miles round trip
  • 1820 feet elevation gain
  • Open June to mid-November


Hidden in the forested mountains between Klamath Falls and Lakeview, Cottonwood Meadow Lake is a pleasant little reservoir among the pines, with free campgrounds, picnic sites, and trails. Expect mosquitoes in June. For an easy 3.6-mile loop, circle the lake. For a more challenging trip, climb nearby Cougar Peak to a lookout site with views from Mt. Shasta to Lakeview.

Start by driving Highway ...

This chapter taken from the book 100 Hikes/Travel Guide: Eastern Oregon.