Climbers heading up 8744-foot Diamond Peak often pause to rest at Marie and Rockpile Lakes, two sweet little pools separated by a meandering alpine meadow.  Word has leaked out that the lakes themselves make a great destination, even for hikers with children.  If you’d like a better look around, simply continue up the Pacific Crest Trail to its highest point on the bouldery shoulder of Diamond Peak.  And if you’re still not satisfied with the view, why not climb the mountain?  No technical skills or rock-climbing gear are required­—just lots of stamina and a knack for route finding. 

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