Top picks near La Pine

Published 12:00 am Friday, September 24, 2021

Harner Butte — The 4.4-mile steady climb up this butte is mainly along a logging road, meaning that the trail itself isn’t particularly interesting but the views are. As you hike up the butte southwest of La Pine, you’ll see through views of Wickiup, Mount Bachelor and South Sister on the horizon. Reports on AllTrails indicate that there may be some bushwhacking to be done to reach the summit as well as a warning that other folks may use some of the red cinder crater as an area for target practice.

Lucky Lake — This trail has become increasingly popular in recent years most likely due to its relatively short and easy trek to get there. The small lake sits about a mile-and-a-half from the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway and in the early and mid-summer is usually heavily populated by mosquitos, but right now the weather is perfect for a skeeter free hike. If you want a longer walk, you can continue on the trail on the east side of the lake towards Willamonson Mountain and Senoj Lake.

Paulina Falls — A short quarter-mile trail of mostly switchbacks leads from the parking area to the overlook at the falls on Newberry. It’s a little on the steep side so be aware before you venture down that you also have to come back up, but the view is stunning. Paulina Creek drops 80 feet over volcanic cliffs creating a beautiful cascade of water. Because the day-use area is within the boundaries of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, you’ll need a $5 day pass or a valid Northwest Forest Pass to access it.