Green Lakes hike
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Green Lakes hike
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Arguably the most popular hike near Bend, the Green Lakes Trail walks you up Fall Creek to the namesake lakes and offers stunning views of both South Sister and Broken Top.
Getting there
Head west out of Bend along the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway for 24.0mi. After passing Mt Bachelor Ski Hill, and just after passing Sparks Lake on your left, you will see the small sign for the Green Lakes Trailhead on your right.
About
| When to do | July through October |
| Backcountry Campsites | At Green Lakes |
| Toilets | At trailhead |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | High |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Green Lakes
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Green Lakes
The trail begins behind the large message board where you will have to fill out a mandatory, but free, wilderness permit. This is in addition to the parking permit. After hiking along the flat trail for a short way, you will cross over a bridge and the trail will begin to climb.
As the trail continues, there are gorgeous views of the cascading (and aptly named) Fall Creek. You will certainly pass by dozens of picture-perfect waterfalls on your way up to the lakes.
When we last completed the hike in late June, there was a significant amount of snow after less than a 1.0mi of hiking. This slows your progress but also decreases the number of people on the hike. We had the lake all to ourselves, something that is unheard of on July and August weekends.
Approximately halfway through the hike, you will cross to the east side of the river on a very narrow and (some would say) scary bridge. After this crossing, you will hike up to a ridge. Up here, the path is mostly flat and the river is more serene. Incredible peaks line the horizon.
Once at the lake enjoy the stunning views. To your left is the picturesque South Sister and to your right the jagged Broken Top. Relax and enjoy before returning the way you came.
Insider Hints
The best time of year to complete this hike is in the fall, as there are no crowds or snow to contend with!
Camping at Green Lakes is a popular, relatively easy backpack.
Many paddling opportunities exist at the nearby Sparks Lake, a favorite amongst local kayakers and stand up paddle-boarders.
A Northwest Forest Pass, National Parks Annual Pass, or a $5 day pass (available at trailhead) is required to park.
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T Rob 4 years ago
Beautiful clear water and clean beach. Great place to spend the weekend. Will be coming back again!
VictoriaMD. 5 years ago
There was a steady but gentle incline for the first few miles, with breathtaking views of waterfalls and Fall Creek. Overall, it is one of the best hikes near Bend.
Aurelio Mendez 5 years ago
A truly magnificent experience. The trail opens up with great views of South Sister and Broken Top. This is definitely one of the best hikes I've done this year.
sweethomealana 5 years ago
Amazing hike. There were beautiful waterfalls at the beginning and well-shaded trails.
Peter Snook 5 years ago
The trail was fairly easy. There was a slight elevation gain, but it’s gradual and doable.
Orbit Rauza 5 years ago
The views at the lakes are unparalleled. Would definitely recommend if staying in the area.
lemontree 5 years ago
Terrific hike! After emerging the dreadful bridge, I let go of a deep sigh. It was scary as hell. Hope they can do something about it.
Bill Parks 5 years ago
Did this hike with friends last autumn! The foliage was fantastic, colors are vibrant. Pretty much like a dream!
Stewart M. 5 years ago
Fantastic hike. The 16 km hike was worth it. I was amazed by the waterfalls in the area.
Eliza Bustamante 5 years ago
A beautiful sight to behold. When the trees open up, it allows you to see the stunning views around the area.