Dome Rock + Tumble Lake Hike

There are several hiking and camping opportunities on the trails to Dome Rock and Tumble Lake. Two trails lead to Dome Rock, the bald, rocky peak that once housed a fire lookout. The longer and harder way begins from Detroit Lake, while the easier jaunt begins from a trailhead off a rough Forest Service road. From this same trailhead, swimmers and campers can head to the cold and quiet Tumble Lake. This lake, nestled in the forest beneath Elephant and Tumble Rock, teems with wriggly newts in the summer. There are a couple of nice backcountry campsites on the lake's shore for overnight visits. In August, huckleberries ripen, making the scramble down to the lake more enjoyable. You'll spend most of your time deep in the forest along these trails, but keep an eye open for the occasional rocky outcrop. During summer, sedum and other hardy flowering plants bloom in a rainbow of colors. At the top of Dome Rock, catch your breath and take in the panoramic views of the central Cascades, including snowy Mount Jefferson.