Hike to Gifford Lake

Set out at the Lower Lake trailhead along trail #717. After only half a mile the trail opens up to Lower Lake, with views of Olallie Butte. The trail winds around the north east side of the lake and you come to a junctions with trail #706. From here take the left onto #706 and continue about .6 or .7 miles to a small trail to the left. This trail is unmarked, but is quite obvious. The trail heads down and opens up in the middle of Gifford Lake. Choose a spot and have lunch and go for a swim, when you've had your fill, set up a hammock and relax for the afternoon.