Three Fingered Jack in Oregon 2025
A beautiful shield volcano of the Cascade Range
Best time: June–October
Three Fingered Jack is a popular backpacking, hiking and climbing destination in Oregon. With an elevation of 7,844 ft (2,391 m), Three Fingered Jack is located not far from Santiam Pass, 21 mi (34 km) west of Sisters, Oregon. The diverse mountain features beautiful flora and fauna. It used to be home for the indigenous Molala people, that lived from salmon fishing and collecting berries and dried herbs in the area surrounding the volcano. In 1825 it was discovered by David Douglas.
Three Fingered Jack's most scenic spots are Canyon Creek Meadows, Jack Lake, and the Mount Jefferson Wilderness. The most popular time for hiking in the area is from June through October.
The trailhead to Three Fingered Jack 20-mi (32-km) loop trail is located just off US20 at Santiam Pass. It is perfect for a 2- or 3-day backpacking trip and offers scenic views of Mt. Washington, The Three Sisters, Mt. Bachelor, and Broken Top. The trail leads hikers past Booth Lake and Jack Lake, Canyon Creek Meadows, and starts to climb the north side of Three Fingered Jack. In the summer the meadows are covered by blooming wildflowers.
East Ridge of Three Fingered Jack features a Glacial Lake along with fantastic views. Pacific Crest Trail is easily accessed from the base of Three Fingered Jack. Campsites are located everywhere along the trail. Choose one of the lakes to stay overnight and enjoy stargazing in a place free of light pollution.
To view the Three Fingered Jack from above along with other mountains and forests of the Cascade Range, you may join one of the Bend's helicopter tours—either 45 minutes or an hour long.