01
Best overall pick
Crane Mountain National Recreation Trail
Warner Mountains South Of Lakeview • High-Elevation Ridge And Summit Trail • Best All-Day Adventure
A long, view-packed ridge climb along Crane Mountain with sweeping looks over Goose Lake and the Warner Valley.
Most hikers tackle Crane Mountain from the main trailhead south of Lakeview, following steady switchbacks into open, rocky country and eventually onto the crest. It is a committing outing with real elevation gain and plenty of sun exposure, but the payoff is huge panoramas in every direction and a real sense of remoteness. Go on a clear day, bring extra water, and be ready for lingering snow early in the season.
02
Closest to town
Bullard Canyon Trail
Just East Of Downtown Lakeview • Shady Creek Canyon Path Close To Town • Quick After-Work Hike
A convenient in-and-out canyon walk where you can slip into the trees and follow a small creek without driving far from New Pine Creek.
Bullard Canyon is the go-to leg-stretcher for Lakeview locals, with a narrow singletrack trail that quickly leaves the edge of town behind. The grade is modest for the first couple of miles, making it friendly for casual hikers and families who want a quiet hour outdoors. Expect a mix of pine, aspen, and brushy sections, and keep an eye out for mountain bikers sharing the trail.
03
Easiest option
Goose Lake State Recreation Area Nature Trails
North Shore Of Goose Lake, Just Over The Oregon Line • Flat Lakeshore And Cottonwood Nature Paths • Best Relaxed Stroll
Short, gentle paths loop through cottonwoods and along the marshy edge of Goose Lake, ideal when you want a walk more than a workout.
Just a short drive from New Pine Creek, the state recreation area offers low-key walking routes right out of the campground and day-use area. The ground is mostly flat, with dirt and grass underfoot and frequent stops to watch birds working the shoreline and wetlands. It is a pleasant choice for hot afternoons, travelers breaking up a long drive on 395, or anyone hiking with kids or older relatives.
04
Big mountain day
Pine Creek Trail to Patterson Lake
South Warner Wilderness, East Of Alturas • Long Alpine Valley And Lake Climb • Classic South Warner Wilderness Route
A full-day hike that climbs through forest and meadows into the high Warner crest, ending at a deep blue lake tucked under ridges.
From the Pine Creek trailhead, the route follows an old drainage up into the heart of the South Warner Wilderness, steadily gaining altitude as the canyon opens into flower-filled meadows. Strong hikers can push on to Patterson Lake, one of the showcase lakes in the range, ringed by talus slopes and wide views back west. The drive from New Pine Creek is longer, but the combination of distance, scenery, and solitude makes this one of the region's standout big hikes.
05
Most scenic waterfall
Mill Creek Falls Trail
South Warner Wilderness Near Lake City • Waterfall Hike Into A Rocky Gorge • Best Shoulder-Season Outing
A moderate trail that winds up a wooded canyon to a plunging waterfall tucked into a basalt-walled gorge.
Mill Creek Falls is the South Warners in a smaller, more approachable package, with a well-used path that keeps you close to the creek most of the way. The final approach gives you multiple vantage points on the falls, where cool spray and shaded rock make a welcome break on warm days. Spring and early summer are prime, when snowmelt keeps the flow high and wildflowers light up the canyon benches.