Todd Lake
Todd Lake is a small alpine lake sitting in a glacial cirque at the base of Broken Top, one of the most dramatic volcanic peaks in the Oregon Cascades. The classic composition here puts the jagged, eroded face of Broken Top reflected in the calm water, and the best spot for this is along the eastern or southern shoreline where the peak frames up cleanly above the treeline. Early morning is ideal, when the surface is glassy and alpenglow catches the rocky summit before the wind picks up and breaks the reflection. A wide angle lens in the 16-24mm range works well for including both the foreground water and the full height of the peak. The lake is reached by a short, flat trail of about half a mile from the trailhead off Cascade Lakes Highway, making it accessible for photographers carrying heavier gear. (Deschutes County, Oregon, United States)
