Sparks Lake

"I would definitely recommend this trip to a friend."

If you have ever looked through one of Ray Atkeson’s Oregon photography books, you’ve probably seen Sparks Lake, which lies in the heart of Oregon’s Cascades outside of Bend. Sparks Lake is clear and shallow, at depths from two to ten feet. It lies in a bowl of broken volcanic rock, which drains the water throughout the summer, so that by the end of the season, the lake shrinks in size and becomes marshy. At places along the shore, you can hear the water trickling away through fissures in the rock.

Photo: South Sister reflected on the surface of Sparks Lake.

The lake has over 10 miles of interesting shoreline to explore and plenty of secluded places to stop and hike or camp. There are also campgrounds with drive-in sites located nearby.

Sparks Lake is west of Bend via the Cascade Lakes Highway and Forest Road 400, a few miles past the Mt. Bachelor Ski Area. Motorboats are allowed on the lake but with a speed limit of only 10 miles per hour, which makes Sparks Lake a great place for human-powered watercraft.

Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.