If you’re looking for a great day hike up into the Central Oregon Cascades, the green lakes trail offers spectacular views of Broken Top, Mt. Bachelor and the South Sister. The trailhead is on the Cascade Lakes Hwy directly across from Sparks Lake. The hike is nine miles round trip and is of moderately difficulty. It’s perfect for the hiker who wants a little more exercise than perhaps the flat Deschutes River Trail, but is not quite ready to tackle the 10,000 foot South Sister.
The first half of the hike is 4.5 miles up to Green Lakes. There are a few steep sections, but for the most part the trail is a pretty mellow incline. You will follow a gorgous mountain stream with many 5′ to 20′ waterfalls that winds though giant forests. These waterfalls offer an excellent spot to stop, catch your breath, grab a swill of water and even cool down in the mist on a hot day. After crossing the second foot bridge (about 3.5 miles up) the path deviates from the river as the walls get steeper and the stream turns into a loud, whitewater canyon. The lakes are a beautiful halfway point of the trip and an excellent place for a well deserved lunch.
Camping is allowed at Green Lakes, but keep in mind that this is primitive back country camping and no fires are allowed. There are trout in the Green Lakes, mostly Rainbows to the best of my knowledge. I’ve no idea how to pursue them though for lack of trying. The real enthusiast can continue on past the Green Lakes, meeting up with a trail the takes you up Broken Top. Look for this trail on the north side of the camping area.
The whole trip took me about 5 hours. Plan for at-least this much time, especially if you like to relax a little on the way and eat a leisurely lunch. This trail is a great way to explore Central Oregon’s Cascade range without having to rent equipment or have a guide lead you. It has waterfalls, lakes and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s perfect for an afternoon hike. Lace up those hiking boots and hit the trail.
Notes: Before July there can still be snow on the higher elevation parts of the trail. The snow fields are pretty easy to navigate but occaisonally unclear which direction to go. Remember the stream runs out of Green Lakes, so that will always lead you in the right direction. If you’d like to avoid snow, hike this in mid-July through the fall. No bikes are allowed on this trail, dogs must be leashed at all times. Please remember this is a Wilderness area, that means leave no trace, everything you bring in must come out…everything.
What to Bring: Hiking boots/shoes (I wouldn’t recommend sandals), 2 liters of water per hiker, some food/snacks, a camera, light weight synthetic clothing (optional), sun screen, and bug spray (depends on time of year)
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