This is probably the most popular hike in Bend, Oregon. If you ask anyone, this is the one you should do. It was no surprise that it used to have cars parked a mile away from the trailhead along the highway. Almost all the time. There was never a moment where it was relaxing. Even walking through the forest and along a stream that had an incredible lava rock background. To even the beautiful lake that looks up at Broken top. It was getting overused and under appreciated, which means it was getting trashed by hikers and campers alike, tourists and locals alike. Left to volunteers to try and keep up. After years of this, the area finally took a stand. They put in a lottery system to make sure that this area had time to heal. Only a certain amount of people are allowed each day. Dogs are still allowed on leash.

While a lot of people complained about this change, they were not the ones there trying to keep it together. But as a hiker, this lottery has made this hike so much more enjoyable. It only goes from June – October. Volunteers can use their time to educate and make sure only permit holders are on the trail. They are also checking campsites and making sure people adhere to fire bans. The parking lot is a lot more manageable and it isn’t so dangerous to drive that section of the highway. It isn’t hard to get a permit and we have never not gotten one when waking up the 10 days before or 2 days to get a permit.

To get a permit for this hike, here is the website: Green Lakes Permit You will also need to get a parking pass, which you can get at the parking lot and is $5.

Hike Green Lakes Trail in Bend, Oregon

Miles: 9.1 ◆ Elevation Gain: 1,289′ ◆ Trail Type: Out and Back ◆ Trail Level: Easy to Moderate ◆ Permit: May-October ◆ Dog Friendly on Leash

This hike starts just past the bathrooms. You will see it as you drive in. It starts off as a casual but beautiful hike along the river. You will go over a bridge and then start the gradual climb. It is beautiful along here and perfect for the dogs!

There is no shortage of waterfalls that you can stop and take a break and a bunch of pictures. There are tons of areas that are safe for dogs to cool off or get a drink and then of course, the highlight of the hike, Green Lakes, makes a fun stop for dogs who love to swim or wade.

After the third bridge is where the climb truly starts. The climb takes you through shaded forest. There are some steep areas, so if there is snow or you are backpacking, poles would be good. Once you get to the trailhead fork and camping is allowed it levels out.

This is my favorite area of the hike. It flattens out for a reprieve before the last little climb and it goes right along the stream with lava rock as the background.

You will crest at around 4.3 miles. Take a minute to take in where you are.

I always count the day users sign as my point to end and start. This is 4.6 miles and 1,100′ in elevation gain.

In peak summer it is a great spot to spend the afternoon with a picnic.

If you hang out around the day use sign, you get Broken Top in the background.

You really can’t go wrong. This trail is best in June/July depending on snow fall and then again in October. If you are into swimming then August.

What to bring on your Green Lakes Hike

The Cascades are known for being buggy. Don’t be deterred though, they have mostly been in the parking lot and by the time you are at the lake, you hopefully won’t see many, but still bring bug spray or wipes.

Hiking poles, water, snacks, sun screen, a hat, chapstick, Glide and mole skin are all things that we bring or at least have in the car. There are no picnic tables at the lake so if you can carry in a foldable chair, there are so many places to sit and relax up there.

I hope you get a chance to experience this beautiful hike and area.

Subscribe to find more hikes and bucket list destinations!

Love to pin? Use this one!