Hike in Crater Lake National Park
Hiking is an ideal way to explore the Crater Lake National Park. From short, accessible trails to longer, invigorating routes that explore the backcountry, you’ll find a hike to suit your pace and experience.
Moderate Hikes
Discovery Point
Trail along the rim of Crater Lake through a forest of whitebark pines and mountain hemlocks. See great views of the lake and Wizard Island.
Distance: 2.0 miles – 60 minutes
Fumarole Bay
A rocky trail on Wizard Island leading to a shallow cove with clear water. Here you can enjoy some swimming or fishing.
Distance: 1.7 miles – 60 minutes
Watchman Peak
A moderate ascent to a lookout above Wizard Island. See some spectacular panoramic views, great place to catch the sunset.
Distance: 1.6 miles – 60 minutes
Annie Creek
This is moderately strenuous hike through a deep canyon. There is lots of water, wildflowers and every once in a while you catch a glimpse of some wildlife.
Distance: 1.7 miles – 90 minutes
Strenuous Hikes
Wizard Summit
A rocky climb to the top of Wizard Island.
Distance: 2.2 miles – 90 minutes
Cleetwood Cove
The only legal access to the shore of Crater Lake is Cleetwood Cove. Here you can swim, fish, or catch a boat cruise.
Distance: 2.2 miles – 90 minutes
Garfield Peak
Enjoy spectacular views along the way to the high peak of Garfield Peak. See diverse plants and wildflowers.
Distance: 3.6 miles – 2-3 hours
Mount Scott
Gradual ascent of the park’s highest peak. The hike is best in the morning when the light is ideal for Crater Lake viewing.
Distance: 4.4 miles – 3 hours
Crater Peak
Hike to the summit of a small volcano. There are no lake views, but the views of Klamath Basin and a peaceful walk through the forest.
Distance: 6.5 miles – 3.5 hours
Union Peak
Long forest walk followed by a very steep climb. There are no views of Crater Lake, but you’ll still find breathtaking panoramic views at the top.
Distance: 9.8 miles – 5-6 hours
Backcountry Hikes
Large Pacific Crest Trail Loop
Hike a segment of West Rim Trail and Pacific Crest Trail. The route passes by the following campsites; Grouse Hill, Red Cone Springs, Bybee Creek, and Dutton Creek.
Distance: 30 miles
Small Pacific Crest Trail Loop
Hike a segment of West Rim Trail and Pacific Crest Trail. The route passes by the following campsites; Lightning Springs, Grouse Hill, Red Cone Springs, and Bybee Creek.
Distance: 24.8 miles
Dutton/Lightning Loop
Hike a small segment of West Rim Trail and Pacific Crest Trail. The route passes by the following campsites; Lightning Springs and Dutton Creek.
Distance: 12.8 miles
Bald Crater Loop
Hike a small segment of the Pacific Crest Trail and branch off to loop around Bald Crater, stop by Sphagnum Bog and Red Cone Springs.
Distance: 20.3 miles
Union Peak/Stuart Falls
Hike two segments of the Pacific Crest Trail, branch off to climb Union Peak, and then continue on Pacific Crest Trail to Stuart Falls.
Distance: 22.4 miles