Are dogs allowed on Cast Lake Loop?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Cast Lake Loop but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Cast Lake Loop?

No, Cast Lake Loop does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Cast Lake Loop?

Cast Lake Loop is rated difficult. It is 10.0 miles long with 2,749 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Is Cast Lake Loop suitable for kids?

Cast Lake Loop is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Oregon trail conditions

DifficultLoop

Oregon

Cast Lake Loop

Rhododendron, Oregon

10.0 mi

Distance

2,749 ft

Elev. Gain

4h 31m

Est. Time

Loop

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

Ascend using West Zigzag Mt. Trail #789, getting most of the elevation gain out of the way in the first couple of miles or so. As you connect with Zigzag Mt. Trail #775, (also called Horseshoe Trail through this section) go right. Eventually you will be will be strolling along one the ridges of Zigzag Mountain. This section of the hike is along open country and you will be relatively exposed. You should see occasional views of Lolo Pass Rd. down to your left, as well as Mt. Hood ahead. As Horseshoe trail and Zigzag Mt. Trail diverge, stay right to continue along Zigzag Mt. #775 for another 1.5 miles to Devil’s Tie Trail #767. Proceed north (left) on #767 to the Cast Lake Trail #796. Cast Lake Trail is a 1/2 mile spur to the lake. There are several well established campgrounds in the treeline above Cast Lake just before Cast Lake Creek. Do not camp on the shoreline or in the wetland areas adjacent to the lake. When leaving, return back to Devils Tie Trail #767 and descend south about 0.6 miles to Burnt Lake South Trail #772. This section is approximately 2.5 back to the trailhead. Have fun and remember to pack it out!

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:1,017 ft

Max:1,489 ft

838 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context