[cvattiat1]

I'm an experienced backpacker, but this will be our first trip with kids ages 8 and 10. Ideally, we're looking for a hike of about three miles each way, less than 2 hours from Portland, and where we can have a campfire. I was considering Serene Lake but hear the road there is treacherous. The other option was Burnt Lake, but it sounds like a crowded spot, and campfires are not allowed. Does anyone have other suggestions that may fit these criteria? Thanks.

[Tomlike]

Badger Creek trail on the east side of Mt Hood is great, many campsites along the creek starting about .5 mile from the trail head Salmon River trail would also work, although probably more crowded.

[MangyMarmot]

Check out Indian Heaven Wilderness. The trails there are fairly moderate with lots of small lakes to camp at. That's where I went with my younger one for his first backpacking trip.

[awilsondc]

I second the Indian Heaven suggestion. Super easy for kids, but it can be very popular so expect company.

[cvattiat1]

One thing I forgot to mention is that our trip is planned for next week, so we need somewhere that will not be snow-covered at this point.

[Ski]

CAVEAT: I have not been here myself, but I have heard good things about this one, and comments to the effect that it was somewhat "kid friendly". NO idea about fire regulations. Siouxon Creek Trail https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Siouxon_Creek_Hike https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/siouxon https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/giffordpinchot/recarea/?recid=31636

[cvattiat1]

Thanks, everyone, for these suggestions. I'll look into them. If anyone has additional suggestions, I'd take those too!

[cvattiat1]

I had a chance to look at each of your recommendations and they all look great! Now I have a difficult decision to make! Thanks, again!

[cvattiat1]

Indian Heaven is snow-covered at this point. Siouxon Creek and Badger Creek look like good options, however, I think we'd prefer to stay at a lake. Does anyone have feedback on Twin Lakes Trail #495? This seems like a good option too.

[MangyMarmot]

Indian Heaven is better late season. It's mosquito heaven in early season.

[awilsondc]

A little further (3 hour drive from Portland) and you could get to Packwood Lake. 4 miles in, 100 ft gain I think... Not as close, but a great trip for kids and a cool lake with an island in the middle.