Updated August 2026: Green Lakes Trail is a roughly nine-mile out-and-back from the Green Lake/Soda Creek Trailhead west of Bend. The route follows Fall Creek into the Three Sisters Wilderness between South Sister and Broken Top, passing lava, small waterfalls and forest before reaching the lake basin.
From June 15 through October 15, quota-controlled day-use permits are required for entry at this trailhead, and a federal recreation pass is also required for parking. Snow can linger into late June, so a permit date does not guarantee summer trail conditions. Compare this hike with other routes in our Oregon hiking guide.
Green Lakes Trail quick facts
- Distance: About 9 miles round trip to the Green Lakes basin.
- Difficulty: Moderate, with sustained mileage, elevation and high-country conditions.
- Permit season: June 15 through October 15 for day use at Green Lake/Soda Creek Trailhead.
- Parking: A qualifying federal recreation pass is required.
- Dogs: Leash and physical-control rules apply July 15 through September 15.
- Camping: Use one of the designated Green Lakes campsites; overnight permits are separate from day-use permits.
- Fires: Prohibited above 5,700 feet, including the Green Lakes basin.
The Green Lakes Trail in Central Oregon
Just 27 miles west of Bend is where you’ll find the trailhead to Green Lakes, as well as the Soda Lakes Trailhead. Two trails leave the parking area, so be sure to get onto the Green Lakes trail and not the Soda Creek Trail (though both trails offer up amazing hikes).
The Green Lakes Trail will lead you north, and follow Falls Creek to Green Lakes. It passes between Broken Top and South Sister, offering stunning up close views of both mountains, and then at the pass the trail turns from Green Lake Trail #17 into Green Lakes Trail #4070.
Along the way you can expect to cross over Falls Creek, and also to see several small but pretty waterfalls. Go early in the season to see rushing water in the falls.
Plan on about nine miles round trip to the basin and at least half a day for most hikers. Distance, elevation, creek crossings and lingering snow make “moderate” a minimum planning rating; winter or early-season travel is a different backcountry objective…