July 12th, 2023. This no-name peak, first activated by ND7PA in 2015 (thanks for the article), is found by taking Big Lake Rd (BLR - aka NF-2690) south from US 20 at the Santiam Pass, across from Santiam Sno-Park, approx. 90 minutes east of Salem and 60 minutes northwest of Bend.
Take BLR around Hayrick Butte to the Patjens Lakes Trail Head near Big Lake West Campground. On foot, take the trail along the west shore of Big Lake 1/4 mile before a taking a bearing of approx. 225° and heading up the hill. The remainder of the hike is only about 6/10th of a mile and 600 feet of elevation gain, but with the multitude of downed trees and brush, it does feel a bit longer. Recommended equipment for this hike includes a hiking partner smarter than I (went by myself) and a whistle. While there were many a recreationist on the lake, having good cell services does nothing for you if you don't have the ability to summon nearby help for a turned ankle.
FM to Bend and Prineville were a breeze, but I struggled to make contacts in the Willamette Valley and Portland metro area. All-in-all, it's a fairly easy 4 points with astounding views to include many other summits, Big and Patjens Lakes, and the drive is almost entirely paved.
