Crater Lake National Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering some of the most breathtaking and diverse hiking trails in Oregon. Known for its deep blue waters, which are the deepest in the United States, and its stunning landscapes, Crater Lake provides a unique and unforgettable hiking experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the best hiking trails in Crater Lake National Park, along with fun facts and tips to make the most of your adventure.
Crater Lake Rim Trail
Distance: 33 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
The Crater Lake Rim Trail is a must-do for any hiking enthusiast visiting the park. This trail circumnavigates the entire caldera, providing panoramic views of the lake from various vantage points. The trail can be hiked in sections or as a complete loop for those looking for a multi-day adventure.
Highlights:
Watchman Peak: A short detour from the Rim Trail, this peak offer some of the best views of Crater Lake and Wizard Island.
Discovery Point: The spot where gold prospectors first discovered Crater Lake, offering stunning views and historical significance.
Cloudcap Overlook: The highest point on the Rim Drive, providing expansive views of the lake and surrounding wilderness.
Fun Fact: Crater Lake was formed around 7,700 years ago when Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed, creating the caldera that later filled with rainwater and snowmelt.
Cleetwood Cove Trail
Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
The Clearwood Cove Trail is the only trail that provides access to the shore of Crater Lake. This steep trail descends about 700 feet from the rim to the lake, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters or take a boat tour to Wizard Island.
Highlights:
Swimming: The cold, clear water of Crater Lake offers a refreshing dip after the hike down.
Boat Tours: From Clearwood Cove, you can take a boat tour to Wizard Island or explore the Phantom Ship up close.
Fun Fact: Crater Lake’s clarity is due to its lack of incoming streams, making it one of the clearest lakes in the world.
Garfield Peak Trail
Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting near Crater Lake Lodge, the Garfield Peak Trail offers a moderately challenging hike with rewarding views. The trail climbs steadily to the summit of Garfield Peak, where you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the lake, Wizard Island, and the surrounding landscape.
Highlights:
Wildflowers: In the summer, the trail is lined with a variety of colorful wildflowers.
Panoramic Views: The summit provides one of the best viewpoints in the park, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Fun Fact: Garfield Peak is named after James Rudolph Garfield, the son of President James A. Garfield, who visited the park in the early 20th century.
Wizard Island Summit Trail
Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
If you’re taking a boat tour to Wizard Island, don’t miss the chance to hike the Wizard Island Summit Trail. This trail leads to the top of the cinder cone, offering a unique perspective of the lake from within the caldera.
Highlights:
Fumarole Bay: A great spot for swimming and fishing, located near the trailhead.
Summit Views: From the top of the cinder cone, you can see the entire lake and surrounding caldera walls.
Fun Fact: Wizard Island is one of two volcanic cinder cones that formed after the collapse of Mount Mazama. The other, Merriam Cone, is submerged beneath the lake.
Mount Scott Trail
Distance: 4.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Mount Scott is the highest point in Crater Lake National Park, and the trail to its summit offers incredible views of the entire lake and beyond. This moderately challenging hike provides a different perspective of the park’s unique geology and landscape.
Highlights:
Fire Lookout: The summit features a historic fire lookout tower that is still in use today.
360-Degree Views: Enjoy panoramic views of Crater Lake, the Cascade Range, and even Mount Shasta on clear days.
Fun Fact: Mount Scott is named after Levi Scott, a pioneer who helped establish the Applegate Trail, an alternative route to the Oregon Trail.
Pinnacles Trail
Distance: 0.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
For a short, easy hike with unique geological features, the Pinnacles Trail is a great choice. This trail takes you through a forested area to a viewpoint overlooking the Pinnacles, tall spires of volcanic rock formed by ancient fumaroles.
Highlights:
Geological Wonders: The Pinnacles are fascinating formations that provide insight into the park’s volcanic history.
Scenic Views: The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and the pinnacles themselves.
Fun Fact: The Pinnacles were formed by volcanic gas vents that hardened the ash around them, creating these dramatic spires.
Conclusion
Crater Lake National Park is a treasure trove of hiking adventures, offering trails that cater to all levels of hikers. From the challenging Crater Lake Rim Trail to the leisurely Pinnacles Trail, each hike provides a unique experience and breathtaking views. The park’s rich geological history, stunning landscapes, and diverse ecosystems make it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the natural wonders of Crater Lake National Park.
