Tam-a-láu Trail Loop loop from Shower/Restroom

If you're looking for an easy hiking route with big views in Central Oregon, the Tam-a-láu Trail Loop loop from Shower/Restroom is definitely worth your time. This 2.8-mile (4.6 km) hike, rated easy, features 517 feet (158 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 24 minutes to complete. It's a perfect high-payoff option for those seeking panoramic vistas without a strenuous climb, making it one of the more popular trails in Cove Palisades State Park.

What to expect on Tam-a-láu Trail Loop loop from Shower/Restroom

The Tam-a-láu Trail Loop offers a journey through diverse high-desert terrain, starting with an initial ascent that leads to a high plateau. Once you reach the top, the trail becomes mostly flat, winding through rolling hills dotted with sagebrush and western juniper trees. You'll encounter impressive large boulders and even some rock walls built by past ranchers, all while enjoying continuous, expansive views of Lake Billy Chinook and the dramatic canyon walls where the Deschutes, Crooked, and Metolius rivers converge. Keep an eye out for the unique geological features, including visible layers of sedimentary stone and basalt. While the initial climb requires some effort, the route is generally easy and suitable for various fitness levels, especially if you pick a cool day to avoid the desert sun.

Planning your visit

The Tam-a-láu Trail Loop is accessible from areas like the Shower/Restroom trail within Cove Palisades State Park. Given its exposure to the desert sun, it's best experienced on a cool day, or during the cooler parts of the day in warmer seasons. Dogs are welcome on the trail but must be kept on a leash. Always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the trail offers little shade.

Trail details

• Distance: 2.8 miles (4.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 517 feet (158 metres)
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 24 minutes