Jeff Park

Oregon highway 22 9 miles east turn left on Whitewater rd. to the trail head.

This past October I wanted to head up to Jefferson Park, a wilderness area located near the base of Mt. Jefferson, Oregon's second highest peak. Winter was coming fast so despite a less than encouraging weather forecast I decided to go. When I arrived at the trail head it was raining. I figured it was just a shower and headed up the 5 mile trail to Jefferson Park. All the hikers I encountered on the way up seemed surprised and somewhat concerned about my plans to spend the night up in the park. I assured them I would be fine. When I arrived it was completely socked in, windy and cold. Bummer. As I sat in my tent vestibule making my diner I figured my chances for any photos would be sort of limited. It did clear a little right around sunset and I managed to get some decent shots. When I woke up in the morning my tent was coated with ice and it was so foggy I could barley see my feet. But I grabbed all my stuff and a cup of hot coffee and headed out anyway. I found a spot on the shore of the lake I was camped near and sat down by a small tree. As I looked in the direction of Mt. Jefferson it actually stated clearing a little. I spent the next 30 minutes shooting and watching the mountain appear and then disappear in and out of the fog and clouds. It was great!