Maxwell Butte(edit)

based on 65 tracks & routes | |

DIFFICULT

#60 hike out of 78 in Mount Jefferson Wilderness |

DIFFICULT

9.3 mi

Distance

4 hrs 51 min

Time

2,411 ft

Elev Gain

Overview

This is a difficult out-and-back hik to Maxwell Butte in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness. The trail starts out in low-elevation forest as it heads east. Pass the junction with the Lava Lakes Trail on the left then passes Twin Lakes. Continue west through the forest. The trail them climbs the slopes of Maxwell Butte and ends at the summit. The foundation of a long-gone 1933 fire lookout and some artifacts can be seen up there. Views include a swath of the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness, much of which has burned. On a clear day you can see Mt. Hood, Mt. Jefferson, Three Fingered Jack, Black Butte, and the Three Sisters.

Getting Started

From Highway 22 turn east into the Maxwell Butte Sno-Park, drive to the far end of the lot, and follow Road 080 to the Maxwell Butte Trailhead on the left.

Taking Children

This is a long hike so children need to have stamina to complete it, especially on a hot day.

Rate this Hike

★★★★★

Dan 3 weeks, 3 days ago

April 29 hike. Minimal snow before the junction with 8 Lakes Basin trail (enjoyed the noisy frogs @ Twin Lakes). Also lots of downed trees but nothing that was too difficult to get around. From the junction to the summit there were sections with a lot of snow.. easy walking in the AM ascent; some post holing in the PM return (we had snowshoes but didn't use them; would have had to put on/take off frequently). Route finding was difficult at times; definitely need a good map. Don't depend on earlier hiker tracks, our ascent tracks were nearly gone by the time we returned. Once we got to the final switchbacks, route finding was easier and there was less snow due to south facing slope. Summit has deep snow but several rocks available for resting, eating and enjoying the fantastic view. Gave a rating of 3 starts because of heavy snow, downed trees, and challenging route finding. View is 5 stars!!

★ ★ ★