The Best Hikes In and Near Klamath Falls
Whether you are an avid hiker or just beginning to explore on foot, Klamath Falls and the Klamath Basin wilderness have an abundance of trails to traverse. Many hikes are a short drive away from the city and each one will only emphasize why this part of Oregon is the perfect place for anyone who loves the outdoors. Also, be sure to check out the Klamath Trails Challenge happening this summer and stay tuned for the winter version.
1) Lower Klamath Basin TrailGet acquainted with the Klamath Falls area with the Lower Klamath Basin Trail. This relaxing 2.1 mile moderate loop is good for all ages and skill levels, perfect for the whole family to get some fresh air. This hike is known for the beautiful wildflowers, bird watching, and scenic views. 2) Mountain Lakes Loop TrailAbout 45 minutes west of Klamath Falls, the Mountain Lakes Trail is a moderate hike and longer at 8.2 miles. Plan your full day hike entirely in the Mountain Lakes Wilderness. The trail provides a loop around the center of the wilderness to access multiple lakes and a few peaks. 3) Brown Mountain TrailThe Brown Mountain Trail is also about 45 minutes from Klamath Falls and considered a bit more arduous with 1,000 feet in elevation gain. This loop takes the hiker around Brown Mountain through lava fields, old growth forest, and even crosses the famed Pacific Crest Trail. 4) Mount McLoughlin Trail
If you are looking for a difficult hike with a rewarding summit, the Mount McLoughlin Trail is the ticket, located about 35 miles west of Klamath Falls. This hike is about five miles long but beware of an elevation gain of about 4,000 feet. The trailhead in the Sky Lakes Wilderness will take you through some rocky terrain, across the Pacific Crest Trail, and above the timberline to the peak of Mount McLoughlin. 5) Hogback Mountain TrailThe Hogback Mountain Trail is a moderate 3.5 mile out and back hike. This trail is within close vicinity to Klamath Falls, located just outside the city. While it can be steep in some areas, expect an abundance of wildflowers (season permitting) and amazing views of the mountains surrounding the Klamath Basin. 6) Moore Mountain LoopLooking to stay close to Klamath Falls, the Moore Mountain Loop trail located in the popular Moore Park is a great place to quickly get away from it all. The full loop is 10.4 miles long, moderate difficulty with some elevation gain, and accessible all year-round. 7) Spence Mountain LoopThe Spence Mountain Loop Trail is 9.7 miles long and moderate in difficulty. This hike starts with an easy, gradual climb toward the summit of Spence Mountain and offers magnificent views of Upper Klamath Lake, Mount Shasta, and the Mountain Lakes Wilderness. 8) Varney Creek TrailThe Varney Creek Trail is located about 40 miles from the city of Klamath Falls. This 4.4 miles long hike takes you through the Mountain Lakes Wilderness. Be sure to pack your fishing pole and swimsuit, there are plenty of opportunities for each in these mountain lakes. 9) Clover Creek TrailThe Clover Creek Trail is a classic hike but a bit more difficult trek out and back at 8.7 miles long. The trailhead is located about 40 miles west of Klamath Falls, Oregon. The hike takes you into the Mountain Lakes Wilderness and actually ends at the above mentioned Mountain Lakes Loop Trail. Feeling adventurous? Start with this trail and finish with the Mountain Lakes Loop Trail to make it a two trail day where you’ll log 16.9 miles. 10) Lost Peak via Badger Lake TrailAbout an hour from Klamath Falls, the Lost Peak via Badger Lake Trail is a fairly easy hike for all skill levels going out and back totaling just under 10 miles. The views of Mount McLoughlin are stunning as this hike takes you along Fourmile Lake in the Sky Lakes Wilderness.
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Some of the beautiful wilderness surrounding the Klamath basin is captured in this photo.
Some hikes will give you great viewpoints of the cityscape.
Many trails still remain accessible in the winter time for cross country skiing or snowshoeing. Klamath Falls gets 300+ days of sunshine per year, which makes for excellent winter hikes.
Check out the Klamath Trails Challenge to learn about some of these trails and other trails in the area. Also, be on the lookout for the winter trails challenge.
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