Sparks Lake/Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail - This trail is in memory of the Oregon Photography Laureate, Ray Atkeson, who thought Sparks Lake had the most stunning landscape in Oregon. This is a 2.3 loop trail, although it is really 2 loops so you can shorten it by half by doing just one loop. The trail starts at Sparks Lake which is just past Mt Batchelor on the Cascade Lakes Hwy. There is a short (.2 mile) accessible trail that follows the lakeshore and has wonderful views of South Sister and Broken Top Peaks, usually with some snow on them. I think this is the most beautiful part of the trail.

The trail continues along the banks of the lake for a little while and continues through lava fields and pine trees. The Davis Canyon Loop is a must. Here you are walking through lava that is over your head. There is almost no elevation gain so this is a very easy hike.

Many people come to Sparks Lake to kayak, canoe or paddle board.