🏕️ Backpacking Guide: Marion Lake, Oregon

A beginner-friendly alpine escape in Oregon's Jefferson Wilderness

Hey friend!! Welcome back to the Big Adventure Club ☀️

Every year, Memorial Day weekend has meant one thing for me: a big, high-mileage backpacking trip: usually 50+ miles over a few days. But this year, I felt the pull toward something softer. More sleep, less pushing. A reminder that rest is part of the adventure.

So instead of chasing miles, I ended up at Marion Lake. I shared this on Instagram, but the weekend was basically: hike, eat, read, swim, sleep, repeat. One night I even slept for 13 hours (?!), and I’m not exaggerating when I say it gave me my glow back. I also got deeper into Onyx Storm, which made the lakeside lounging even better.

This week’s edition is a full guide to Marion Lake: a beginner-friendly backpacking trip with warm water, mountain views, and just enough trail to feel like you did something without needing a recovery day. If you’re craving a little peace outside, this one’s for you.

Why Choose Marion Lake?

If you're looking for a short and sweet backpacking trip with major payoff, Marion Lake should be on your list. Just a couple hours from Bend or Portland, it’s ideal for first-time backpackers or anyone wanting a low-effort, high-reward overnight.

Here’s why I love it:

• 🌲 Under 2.5 miles from the trailhead to the lake

• ⛰️ Gradual elevation gain (760ft) — no grueling climbs

• 🏕️ Tons of easy-to-find campsites

• 🏊‍♀️ Warmer, swimmable alpine water

• 🏔️ Views of Three Fingered Jack across the lake

• 🚗 Close enough to bail if you’re not feeling it — but you probably won’t want to

Quick Stats

Trail Name: Marion Lake Trail #3436

Trailhead: Marion Lake Trailhead

When to Go

Late May to October, depending on snow levels.
Marion Lake sits just above 4,000 ft elevation, so the trail is usually snow-free by late spring. Peak season runs June–September, but keep in mind:

• 🦟 Mosquito alert: Early summer (June–July) is notorious for swarms. Bring repellent or plan your trip for late August.

• 🧊 Snowmelt: If you’re going in late May or early June, check trail conditions ahead of time — especially if you’re hoping to hike beyond the lake.

Getting There

From Bend: ~1 hour 45 minutes
From Portland: ~2 hours 15 minutes

It’s a long gravel logging road once you turn off Hwy 22 — drive slowly, especially in a low-clearance car. The road is doable in a sedan, but expect potholes.

🚗 Parking:

• Trailhead lot fits 15–20 cars

• Additional shoulder parking 1/4 mile down the road

• Pit toilet at the main trailhead

🎟️ Permit Requirements:

• Central Cascades Wilderness Permit required June 15 – October 15
  You can reserve your overnight permit through Recreation.gov

Camping at Marion Lake

There are plenty of dispersed campsites near the shoreline and just up into the woods — many with views of the water and Three Fingered Jack.

Campsite tips:

• Arrive early if it’s a weekend in peak season

• Camp at least 200 feet from the lake and trails

• Respect closed restoration areas (they’re clearly marked)

There are no pit toilets once you’re at the lake, so bring your Leave No Trace skills. That means digging a cat hole (200 feet from water) or packing out waste with a wag bag.

What to Pack

This is a great trip to test your backpacking kit without going too deep into the backcountry. Some items to consider:

• 🛏️ Tent, sleeping bag, and pad

• 🧴 Bug spray (essential in June/July)

• 💧 Water filter

• 🍲 Lightweight meals and snacks

• 🧻 Wag bag or trowel + TP

• 🔥 Micro stove

• 👙 Swimsuit if you want to take a dip!

• 📚 E-reader, fishing rod, pool floaty

Get your free backpacking packing checklist here!

What I Wore to Marion Lake

Here’s what I packed (and re-wore the entire weekend, let’s be real):

• Top: One of my go-to backpacking tank tops — breathable and all day comfort

• Shorts: Adjustable at the waist with just the right amount of coverage to protect your thighs from chafing (and from questionable log benches)

• Bandana: Worn around my neck to protect my chest from the sun and soak up sweat. Simple but so effective

• Hat: Keeps the sun off your face and is genuinely the softest one I own. No break-in needed (code LAUREN15 to save 15% at Columbia)

• Socks: Merino wool with the cutest little bears on them 🐻

• Hiking Shoes: Trusty low hikers with great traction and breathability. Perfect for warm-weather trails

• Midweight Fleece: Lightweight, super soft, and warm enough to throw on post-swim or when the sun dips behind the ridge

• Puffy Jacket: My spring-summer go-to in a cheerful butter yellow. Warm without being bulky, and ideal for chilly mornings or stargazing at night

Nearby Add-Ons

If you’re feeling adventurous, Marion Lake is also a jumping-off point for bigger Jefferson Wilderness trips — snow permitting.

✨ Waterfall detour:
Before or after your trip, hike the short side trail to Marion Falls and Gatch Falls for a stunning photo op. These are some of the best waterfalls in the area and worth the extra time.

Leave No Trace Reminders

Marion Lake is beautiful and fragile. Please:

• Pack out everything you pack in (yes, even food scraps)

• Use established campsites and stay off closed restoration areas

• Keep 200 feet from water sources when going to the bathroom or washing dishes

• Be respectful of other hikers and campers — this is a popular spot, but let’s keep it feeling wild

Leaving Notes

I hope this guide helps you plan a weekend that leaves you feeling a little more alive, whether you’re new to backpacking or just want something easy, beautiful, and close to home. If you end up going, I’d love to hear how it goes (and what book you bring with you).

Seriously, if you ever hike a trail I recommend, please message me. It always makes my day to know these adventures are finding their way into your life too. Same with gear. Any way I can help you get outside is honestly my life goal!

If you’re enjoying Big Adventure Club and want to support me for free, you can:

• 🧡 Like this post or reply and tell me where you’re heading next

• 📬 Forward this email to a friend who’s curious about backpacking

• 🛒 Shop through my REI affiliate link next time you gear up — it costs nothing extra and helps me out

• 🔗 Browse my Links Page for my favorite gear, reads, and trip ideas

Thanks for being here 💙 See you soon!!

Happiest Outside,
Lauren