Posted in Oregon July 09, 2020 by Catherine Armstrong

A 3,000-Year-Old Forest Lies Beneath The Surface Of Clear Lake In Oregon

Oregon is home to around 1,400 named lakes, so if you’re looking for a pretty spot to fish, kayak, or just soak in some scenery, you surely don’t have to go far. There’s one lake here that’s so clear that you can see the bottom of it, and it’s home to the remnants of a 3,000-year-old forest. Check out Clear Lake:

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Tucked amongst the trees in the Willamette National Forest, Clear Lake is a little gem in the woods.

The lake covers about 142 acres, and is up to 175 feet deep. The water is very cold, and also crystal clear.

3,000 years ago, the Sand Mountain volcano erupted, spewing a huge lava river that burned much of the forest in the area. The lava flowed to the cold McKenzie River, where it came to an abrupt stop. The backup of all that lava created Clear Lake.

Many of the forest's trees were submerged in the new lake, and you can still see them today. Check out these 80-foot-tall tree trunks! They've been perfectly preserved for thousands of years.

Clear Lake is a popular spot for scuba diving, not only because the water is so clear, but because there's so much to explore on the lake's bottom.

Of course, you can also explore from above the surface! Rent a row boat, or bring your canoe or kayak.

...and discover the submerged forest for yourself!

As you explore, it will seem as though the lake is just 20-30 feet, because in many cases you can see all the way to the bottom. But in reality - this lake is quite deep! The forest is submerged in about 120 feet of water.

When you visit the Clear Lake Area, you'll find a campground with 34 campsites. Clear Lake Resort is right next door. It offers a restaurant, tackle shop, and grocery...

...and the resort also offers cozy cabins for overnight stays.

During your visit, make sure to take the Clear Lake Loop Trail, where you'll discover lava fields, ancient firs, and the source of the McKenzie River.

Learn more about Clear Lake on the USDA Forest Service website. Have you visited Clear Lake? Tell our readers about your trip there, and share your photos in the comments!

Address: Clear Lake, Oregon 97759, USA