Tannen Lakes Trail

This is a short trail that takes you on a gently climb into the Red Buttes wilderness and Tannen Lake. The trail can be followed around a ridge to East Tannen Lake about half a mile away. The map below shows how to make this into an approximately three mile loop hike with a vista from Tannen Peak.

Directions to the trailhead ( Jefferson State byway map )

Some of the route to the trailhead takes you on Forest Service (USFS) gravel roads. A Forest Service map and sturdy tires are recommended for this trip. The road to Tannen Lakes loop trail is closed by snow during the winter and early spring.

From Highway 199: Turn on to Jefferson State byway and drive 17 1/2 miles to the top of the ridge just past the California border. The road to the ridge has several sharp turns. Drive cautiously. At the top of the ridge turn left on USFS 4812 and drive 4 miles to the Bolan Lake fork. Stay right at the fork to go to Tannen Lakes (see a picture of the road and scenery). The intersection of USFS 19N01 (on your right) is at mile 7.5. Continue straight ahead at this intersection. The road goes down hill and gets rough but is still passable to most vehicles. The Tannen Lake trailhead is at mile 9 where the road ends.

Trail Map

The trail climbs at a very modest grade for a short distance to Tannen Lake that makes a fun family destination if you have small children. The generalized map below illustrates the trails in the immediate area of the Tannen Lakes basin. A detailed Forest Service map is recommended if you decide to do the entire loop trail.

Map of Tannen Lakes Loop Trail, Jefferson State Byway, Cave Junction, southwest Oregon Siskiyou Mountains.

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Disclaimer: All information in Highway199.org is accurate to the best knowledge of the author. However, conditions in outdoor settings can change dramatically after storms or fires. For this reason, travelers are advised to check current road conditions before traveling through the area, drive responsibly and take measures to understand safety issues in the region. When participating in outdoor activities, always plan and prepare for safe hiking, swimming or any other activities mentioned in the Highway 199 website. More on disclaimer and copyright...