Overview
The Pamelia Limited Entry Area, within the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness, requires additional protection in an effort to preserve the natural beauty and wilderness experience; therefore a limited entry quota is in effect. Under this quota, 20 groups are permitted in the area each day, only three of which may be large groups with 9 to 12 people. For these large groups, the Pamelia area is broken into 3 smaller areas: Pamelia Lake, Hunts Cove, and Coyote/Shale Lakes. Only one large group is allowed in each of these areas at one time.
Permits for the Pamelia Limited Entry Area become available for advanced reservation annually on May 1 for season dates beginning the Friday of the Memorial Day holiday weekend and ending October 31.
Natural Features:
This unique landscape encompasses crystal clear streams, wildflower meadows, and rugged mountain views. This area sits on the western flank of Mt Jefferson (10,497 ft), and is a popular access route for climbers.
The area contains a number of lakes, streams and springs. Hiking along the Hunts Creek trail and the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail offers stunning views of the Cascade Crest and Mt Jefferson. Cross-country travel skills are necessary to access the high lakes and mountain peaks.
Recreation:
Backpacking, day hiking, mountaineering and horseback riding are the most common forms of recreation in the area during the short summer season, after snow has receded. Opportunities for nature photography also abound.
Access to the Pamelia Limited Entry Area begins at the Pamelia Trailhead, located just off Highway 22. The Pamelia Lake Trail #3439 climbs approximately 800 feet in elevation, at which point it intersects the Hunts Creek Trail #3440 that then goes north and south. Both ends of the trail connect to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, providing a popular 13.5-mile, day-long loop for hiking or riding. Stunning views of Mt Jefferson are offered from Grizzly Peak (5,799 ft); the location of a historic fire lookout that has since been removed. Visitors should obtain a detailed map of the area before planning a trip, and inquire in advance about trail conditions, particularly early in the season.
Facilities:
There are no facilities within the Limited Entry Area or the Wilderness Area. Facilities at the trailhead include parking, bathrooms, picnic tables, and wilderness and interpretive information about the area. Visitors must practice "Leave No Trace" skills, including properly disposing human and pet waste and packing and carrying out all trash.
Recreation Pass required in addition to the Limited Entry Permit:
Use of the Pamelia Trailhead requires a recreation pass, such as the Northwest Forest Pass, which must be purchased before arriving at the trailhead. Passes can be obtained at Detroit Ranger Station online (day passes only) or any of these vendors.
Nearby Attractions:
The Pamelia Limited Entry Area is along the West Cascades National Scenic Byway on Highway 22. Many hiking and camping opportunities are along the highway. Major attractions include the Detroit Lake Reservoir; Oregons premier recreation lake.
