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Billy Jones Lake
Location of Billy Jones Lake in Oregon, USA.
Location of Billy Jones Lake in Oregon, USA.
Billy Jones Lake
Location in Oregon
Location of Billy Jones Lake in Oregon, USA.
Location of Billy Jones Lake in Oregon, USA.
Billy Jones Lake
Location in the United States
Location Eagle Cap Wilderness, Wallowa County, Oregon, US
Coordinates 45°14′59″N 117°20′54″W / 45.2496°N 117.3482°W / 45.2496; -117.3482
Type Tarn
Basin countries United States
Max. length 317 yd (290 m)
Max. width 126 yd (115 m)
Surface elevation 8,400 ft (2,600 m)

Billy Jones Lake is a special kind of mountain lake called a tarn. It is found high up on Hurricane Divide in the beautiful Eagle Cap Wilderness area of northeastern Oregon, United States. This lake is quite close to another lake called Echo Lake, less than one mile away.

Billy Jones Lake is known for being one of the highest lakes in the entire Eagle Cap Wilderness. It sits at about 8,400 ft (2,600 m) above sea level. Some people even think it might be a little higher, around 8,419 ft (2,566 m) or even 8,435 ft (2,571 m). The only lake in the Eagle Cap Wilderness that is higher than Billy Jones Lake is Legore Lake, which is at 8,950 ft (2,730 m). Legore Lake is about 4 miles (6.4 km) from Billy Jones Lake.

Discover Billy Jones Lake

Billy Jones Lake is a hidden gem in the mountains. It is a great place for adventurers who love to explore high-altitude areas. The lake's clear waters reflect the surrounding wilderness, making it a truly scenic spot.

What is a Tarn?

A tarn is a lake that forms in a hollow or bowl-shaped area. These areas are often created by glaciers. Glaciers are like giant, slow-moving rivers of ice. As they move, they carve out the land. When the glacier melts, the hollow fills with water, creating a tarn. Billy Jones Lake is a perfect example of this natural process.

Where is This Lake?

Billy Jones Lake is located in the Eagle Cap Wilderness. This wilderness area is a protected natural space in Wallowa County, Oregon. It is known for its rugged mountains, deep valleys, and many alpine lakes. The wilderness offers stunning views and a chance to experience nature far from cities.

Hiking to Billy Jones Lake

Reaching Billy Jones Lake is an exciting adventure for experienced hikers. The trail offers amazing views and a challenging climb. It is a great way to see the beauty of the Eagle Cap Wilderness up close.

The Trailhead and Path

The journey to Billy Jones Lake starts at the Hurricane Creek Trailhead. You will begin on Trail Number 1807. This trail later changes to Trail Number 1824. Along the way, you will pass by Echo Lake before finally reaching Billy Jones Lake.

A Challenging Climb

The first 5 miles (8.0 km) of the 8 miles (13 km) trail are quite popular. Many people hike this part during the summer and fall. However, the last three miles are much less used. This part of the trail is also very difficult to climb. It rises about 2,400 ft (730 m) in elevation. This steep climb makes reaching Billy Jones Lake a rewarding challenge for hikers.

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