Stretching over nine miles, Detroit Lake is in the heart of the Cascade Mountain Range. Dramatic, snow-capped Mount Jefferson dominates the views, though many other snowy peaks can be seen, peeking over mountain ridges in the distance in other directions. All along the shores, tall firs and pines tower, adding a hint of color to an otherwise muted landscape. There are five established swimming areas. However, because the lake is largely fed by snowmelt, it can be quite chilly even well into summer. Fishing is an activity enjoyed by many at Detroit Lake. Three public ramps and a fishing dock invites fishermen to ply their trade. In addition to the native brown bullhead catfish, they can catch rainbow trout, kokanee, and chinook salmon, which are stocked by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. The water levels can fluctuate wildly depending on the time of the year and whether there was a drought. One boat launch was specially designed to enable boaters to launch their boats in winters when the water levels are typically low. In wintertime, the fun doesn’t stop. When the lake freezes over, people take to the ice for races along the serpentining corridor. Hardy fishermen drill small holes into the ice in hopes of catching a fresh fish for supper. If outdoor adventurers can’t stomach being on the water for long, there’s plenty of other recreational fun in the area. Several miles of hiking trails wind and weave through the trees, ascending and descending from mountaintops, passing by several vistas, scenic points, dark, damp caves, and dazzling waterfalls. Tucked away at the eastern end of Detroit Lake is Hoover Falls, a wide, 15-foot fall that makes its appearance only in winters when the water levels are extremely low.