Hosmer Lake -- a nearby treasure

Kayakers enjoy exploring Hosmer Lake.

A deceptively pretty lake for fishing, nature study and photography lies along the Cascade Lakes Highway just about an hour's drive from Sisters.

There's still a month or so to visit Hosmer Lake before the winter season's snow closes the highway. Canoes, kayaks, electric motor craft and tube fishing allow exploration through the curving channels of this reed-lined lake.

Giant Atlantic salmon (introduced in 1958) can be seen in crystal clear water -- and offer a challenge for the fly fisherman in a primarily catch-and-release environment. Brook trout are also found in this pristine setting.

Ducks, geese, heron and osprey are generally active around the lake. The wildflowers are great for photographers during the summer season as are the lily pads and their yellow flowers.

While on the lake visitors get breathtaking views of Mt. Bachelor and the Sisters mountains.

There is a dry campground and boat launch at Hosmer Lake and another, more secluded, dry campground nearby at Marsh Campground.

At the far northwest end of the lake is narrow Quinn Creek, which leads to a small, beautiful, cascading waterfall. This is an excellent spot to have lunch or take a short hike.

To reach Hosmer Lake, go to Bend and take the Cascade Lakes Highway (Highway 46) toward Mt. Bachelor. Continue past Mt. Bachelor about 12 miles to the Hosmer Lake turnoff (on the Elk Lake loop road; road 4625). Travel about one mile to the Hosmer Lake parking area. Total travel distance is about 57 miles from Sisters.