Junction Lake via East Crater Trail

This is an easy in-and-out hike to Junction Lake from the east boundary of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The Indian Heaven Wilderness area is a few miles south of Mt Adams. The Pacific Crest Trail passes through and there are a number of other smaller trails, loops and lakes to visit. It's an easy elevation gain with a well-developed trail and no steep drop-offs. Even smaller children should be fine with this hike. For this hike, one can camp at Forlorn Lake at a fairly primitive campground. Users have reported that the road leading to the trailhead is closed from Dec 1 to April 1. This walk starts at the East Crater Trailhead where you need to register for the hike. There is a limit of 12 humans and animals per party. There is no fee and no designated parking -- just a wide spot in the road. A small but prominent sign marks the trail. Sadly, you get no vistas of the East Crater or even Mt. Adams. Bring water! In late July there was no flowing water. The lake water is clear and could likely be drank after boiling/treatment. There are lots of mosquitoes! Use repellent.