| Marion Lake is 360 acres. It sits at an elevation of 4,100 feet. The area is heavily timbered and dominated by Douglas-fir and true fir types. Visitors who like animals might be able to spot black-tailed deer and black bears in the trees. The lake has fish species that include rainbow trout, brook trout and cutthroat trout. Bird lovers will be able to spot osprey, as well as a nesting pair of bald eagles. There is access to the lake from the northwest, and it is a relatively short 2.5 mile hike from the Marion Lake Trailhead located at the end of the Marion Creek Road. From the interior of the wilderness the Marion Lake Area can be accessed by the Lake of the Woods Trail from the northeast, the Minto Pass Trail from the southeast, and the Blue Lake Trail from the south. There are between 3000 and 6000 visitors per year. Visitors are also free to take a day hike in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness with a loop along the shore of beautiful Marion Lake. Permits are required for day and overnight hikes; the permits are self issued at the trailhead. An exceptionally beautiful lake and an interesting route getting there are what make this hike so appealing. Overnight camping at Marion Lake is limited, though there are some nice campsites at Lake Ann, along the way. Visitors can take guided tours or learn on their own through onsite interpretation. |
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