Mt. Bachelor via Sunrise Lodge

The Sunrise to Summit Trail on Mt. Bachelor is the easiest and most straightforward way for peakbaggers to reach the summit of one of Central Oregon’s classic volcano climbs. The top boasts views of Broken Top, the Three Sisters, and even Mt. Jefferson beyond. Mt. Bachelor’s official Sunrise to Summit Trail map should help you get a clear visual of this hike.

This route begins at Sunrise Lodge at Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort, right off of Cascades Lakes Highway. Many people park right alongside the highway and walk into the resort, or if the gate is open, you can pull into Century Drive and walk to the parking area where you’ll start your hike.

In the summer of 2016 they did some maintenance to this trail and have bright orange flags leading the way to the start of a single-track path switchbacking from the main parking lot area. If these flags aren’t present, start at the base of the Sunrise Express chair lift and follow a cat track to the right of the lift until you intersect the main trail. This trail should switch back you all the way to the very top, through trees and rocky moraines up to the volcanic rock that decorates the summit.

Best time for this hike would be July-September. If you’re early in the season, snow may obscure the trail and make it more difficult to follow. As long as you follow the Sunrise Express lift up, you should have a clear view of the summit and be able to wind your way to the top.

Check Mt. Bachelor’s Conditions Report before you go. The restaurants at Sunrise Lodge are closed during the summer, for lunch, snacks, and even a sunset dinner you’ll have to visit Pine Marten Lodge.