The loop is about 2 miles approximately in length and the highway side of the lake is less congested as several campgrounds border the opposite side. The best part of this trail is not the loop around the lake however but the ride slightly descending from Suttle Lake that connects you to Black Butte Loop trails near the Sherman Camp turn-off of hwy 22. This part of the trail is called the Suttle Lake Tie trail. It rides very fast and winds through beautiful woodland. The first mile nearest the lake does get pretty tight with dense shrubbery whacking at you so maneuver carefully. The trail is quite smooth and very negotiable for beginners nonetheless. A few sandy areas might trip you up in a few spots during dry months. Since I was staying at Suttle Lake at the time I just traveled the trail to the connection point of the Black Butte Loops and then back again. The descent from Suttle Lake was gradual enough that the return trip was only slightly more difficult. I definitely will be coming back to explore further. From the Sherman Creek turnoff and Black Butte Loops you can also connect to a trail that takes you to Sisters. I will be back to experience those trails soon. Courtesy of Singletracks.com