About
Easy HIKING to Beautiful Alpine LakeS
Hoffer Lakes are two beautiful alpine lakes that are far too beautiful for how easy they are to access. For starters the trailhead begins at Anthony Lake, just a 50 minute drive from downtown Baker City. To add to that, the trail to the lakes is just half a mile! It’s the perfect hike for beginners, families, or those seeking a destination where they can explore.
ACTIVITIES
Hiking
Start your hike along the Anthony Lake shoreline, then head south when you reach the clearly marked trail for Hoffer Lakes. Stay on the main trail as it follows the creek. Upon reaching the first lake, stay to the left and work around to a beautiful waterfall tumbling down the granite walls into the larger of the two lakes (come early in the season to see it really shine). Explore the granite slabs and evergreens, or find a spot along the lakeshore to soak in the views. Jump into the frigid waters to cool off on hot summer days.
Distance: 1.4 miles out and back
Elevation gain: 350 ft
You can extend your hike by connecting to other trails that take you further into the Elkhorns, including up to the panoramic point of the Lakes Lookout. You can make an 8-mile loop by connecting to the Crawfish Basin trail and then return via the Elkhorn Crest trail.
Details
Getting There
From Downtown Baker City, take Broadway west until it turns north onto 10th Street and becomes US-30. Continue on US-30 for 10.5 miles. When you arrive in Haines, turn left on 4th Street. Continue onto Rock Creek Rd/Anthony Lakes Highway for another 11 miles. Continue onto NFD-73 for 7 miles. The Resort will be on the left. Follow roads to Anthony Lake itself – you can park either near the boat ramp or the picnic area.
Seasons
Snow free late-June through October
Cost of Admission
$6 day use fee, or $3 with NW Forest Pass
other considerations
Bring bug spray during the summer