Backpacking Deep into Oregon's Mount Jefferson Wilderness

Author Photographer
  • Graham Hiemstra + David Ryder

Camera
  • Contax T2
Film
Backpacking Deep into Oregon's Mount Jefferson Wilderness

Two days, 20 miles, 6 alpine lakes, and a single roll of film from the heart of the Pacific Northwest


Published: 12-14-2015

Updated: 10-27-2020

About the author

Graham Hiemstra
Graham Hiemstra
Field Mag's benevolent overlord, Graham Hiemstra is a writer & photographer with over a decade experience covering style, design, and outdoor gear.

With NOAA warning of the worst storm in six months and the region chocking on smoke resulting from the West's severe wildfire situation we set out with fully loaded packs from the Whitewater Trailhead, deep inside Central Oregon's Mount Jefferson Wilderness area. At around six miles each way—a couple of which happen to coincide with the Pacific Crest Trail—Jefferson Park is secluded but popular, with a handful of crystal clear alpine lakes peppering the area.

Our crew consisted of me, my father, his brother (my uncle) and my cousin/TF contributor David Ryder. In an effort to disconnect and keep pack weight down just a single point and shoot was shared between us.

As the forecast worsened the decision was made to pack out a day early. Nonetheless, we still clocked 20 miles by the time the retreat was complete. Not bad for two days work.