Broken Top is one of Central Oregon’s most iconic mountains – it’s jagged peaks are recognizable from miles away. Luckily for the adventure-bound folks, it’s also a very accessible peak with a unique reward at the top: a magnificent alpine lake.
The alpine lake in Broken Top’s crater doesn’t have a name – well, that’s not entirely true. It’s called “No Name Lake.” Maybe that’s because the lake itself is so indescribably beautiful that nobody could think of a perfectly accurate lake.
With 1,300 feet of elevation gain, a hefty 8.4 mile out and back, this trail will award you with sweeping views of the Three Sisters and a picture perfect turquoise lake. Our friends at the Outdoor Project have a great Broken Top Crater blog post with some amazing photos and all the info you need for the hike.
Interested in something a little more family-friendly? Check out these shorter, kid-approved hikes with equally as amazing views. Or, check out our larger list of Central Oregon hiking trails and find one that fits into your schedule and level of difficulty.
Other stories
More inspiring stories, adventures, and tips & tricks for planning and experiencing the best Central Oregon has to offer.
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The Three Sisters Mountains in Oregon
On a clear day from viewpoints throughout Central Oregon, the Three Sisters mountains command attention as the gorgeous snow-capped peaks seen to the west. Each of this trio of volcanic peaks reaches more than 10,000 feet in elevation, and have become a part of Central Oregon culture. The Three Sisters draw visitors seeking mountain climbers hoping to ascend the peaks, those seeking nearby hiking, camping and mountain biking, landscape photographers and anyone who appreciates a gorgeous view.
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Explaining the Central Cascades Wilderness Permit Program
Summer in the Central Oregon outdoors will look different this year, due largely to the unveiling of the Central Cascades Wilderness Permit System. Years in the making, the new system will cap the number of day-use and overnight visitors to some of the region’s most popular trails — including Green Lakes and Soda Creek, Broken Top, South Sister, and the Tam MacArthur Rim trails.
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The Scenic Waterfalls in Central Oregon
Is there anything more satisfying—anything more awe-inspiring—than gazing upon a thundering waterfall, its raging waters tumbling over ancient rock walls? Does it get any better than seeing a waterfall reach full boil in the midst of an otherwise quiet river as it crashes through a rock-lined canyon?
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Fall is Prime Time for Central Oregon Fly Fishing for Steelhead on the Deschutes
It’s no accident that the fabled Oncorhynchus mykiss, aka steelhead trout, is dubbed the “fish of a thousand casts” It’s not uncommon for novice steelhead anglers to fish for years without ever tying into, let alone landing, one of these powerful and acrobatic sea-run rainbow trout. There’s also a reason why they keep trying.
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Winter Weekend – Getaway to Sunriver
When my wife suggested a winter weekend getaway to Sunriver, Oregon my immediate thought was, “Why? The world-class golf courses will be covered with snow.” By the time the long weekend was over, I thought, “Wow. Thank goodness the world-class golf courses were covered with snow.”
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10 Things Not to Miss in Central Oregon
Time and time again guests come into our Central Oregon Visitor Information Center in Sunriver and say, “We’re here for a few days. What should we do?” And it’s always the toughest question we get.