Oregon’s second tallest mountain rises like a wall from the lake-dotted wildflower meadows of Jefferson Park. The view of Mt. Jefferson is so impressive and the meadows are so delightful to explore that the area shows signs of overuse.

On August weekends hundreds of people roam this corner of the Wilderness. Some of the lakeshores, once green with vegetation, are closed for restoration. Wilderness rangers strictly enforce restrictions: campfires are banned throughout the area and camping within 250 feet of the lakes is only permitted at approved sites marked with an embedded post.

To visit this alpine treasure without damaging it or fighting crowds, do not . . .

This chapter is an excerpt from 100 Hikes : Central Oregon Cascades