Rising twenty miles west of Bend, Broken Top’s crumbling, glacier-carved slopes provide a challenging ascent for experienced hikers. From the Green Lakes Trailhead, hike north on a well-traveled dirt trail winding through the woods. The path follows and crisscrosses Fall Creek as it gradually climbs to Green Lakes (you’ll be treated to views of numerous small, cascading falls). If you need to refill your water supplies, or enjoy a cool dip on a hot day, follow the numerous scramble trails down to the creek.
After 2.5 miles, the trail travels alongside the massive lava domes that rise to the west. Less than 2 miles later, the route veers to the northeast past Green Lakes, then begins an aggressive ascent to Broken Top’s northwest ridge. After cresting the ridge, it’s a half-mile traverse on loose soil and rock to the base of the summit block. A 10-foot (low 5th class) rock climb and a 300-foot 3rd class scramble lead to the summit. Soak up views of the surrounding Cascade Peaks before retracing your steps to the trailhead.
-Mapped by Trung Q. Le
To Trailhead
From Skyliners Park in Bend, OR, head southwest on SW Century Dr./OR 372. In 9.1 miles, continue straight on Hwy. 46. In 14.7 miles, turn right to access trailhead parking.
