Crater Lake is truly a sight to be seen. It was formed after a volcano collapsed many years ago. After Mount Mazama (the 12,000 ft. tall volcano that collapsed) fell it created Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States. It is a whopping 1,943 ft. deep!
In this guide, I will share all of the best hikes in Crater Lake National Park (Oregon’s only National Park) with you, and tell you a little about each one. This will help you make the best-informed decisions on what Crater Lake hikes will work best for you and your trip. And please don’t hesitate to ask any questions that you may have in the comment section at the end of this guide.
We had planned on spending a day at Crater Lake, after a series of unfortunate events, our day was cut short. However, if those unfortunate events didn’t happen, I wouldn’t have been able to see the dark night sky light up with shooting stars & the most magnificint sunrise (my pictures don’t do it justice).
What I’m trying to say is, things will not always go as planned. But still, take it in & enjoy it. All of it. Your unplanned plans may end up better than your planned ones. Also, don’t miss Crater Lakes night sky!
But first… a few rules and guidelines to help keep this land preserved for generations to come.
LEAVE NO TRACE
1. Plan ahead and prepare
Planning well & being prepared helps you to accomplish your goals while also ensuring that you don’t leave behind damaged land.
2. Travel on existing trails
Help protect the natural habitat by walking on proper trails.
3. Dispose of waste
Take out what you bring in. Don’t litter!
4. Leave what you found
Leave everything as you found it. Don’t disturb plants or flowers.
5. Minimize campfire impact
Know the rules of backcountry campfires and if they are allowed. Using a lightweight camp stove in place of a campfire can help reduce the impact of campfires.
6. Respect wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Do not feed them or leave food out. Keep dogs on a leash, if they are allowed.
7. Be considerate of others
Respect people’s experiences. Keep the noise down, yield to other hikers passing by, and keep dogs leashed (when allowed).
Tips & Tricks – Hiking Crater Lake
- Get an America the Beautiful Pass
For $80 you & your family can get into any national park for a year. *Families of 4th graders get in free with the Every Kid Outdoor Program. Crater Lake National Park does have an entrance fee. It is $30 for a private vehicle. - Seasonal Closures
While Crater Lake is open year-round, it is one of the snowiest places in the United States. That means some roads & trails may close throughout the year. It’s important that you check the current conditions before you head out there. The summer months are the best time to visit Crater Lake. - Bring Plenty of Water
Hydration backpacks are a lifesaver! 2 quarts of water per person per 2-hour hike. - Bug Spray
We visited one early morning in June and the mosquitoes were BAD. I wish I got a picture of them covering our car (literally) but unfortunately, I was too busy trying to get away from them. - Don’t Hike Alone
- Bring Snacks
- Dress in Moisture-Wicking Layers
Map of Best Hikes In Crater Lake National Park
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The Best Hikes in Crater Lake National Park
This list of best Crater Lake National Park hikes starts with the highest-rated trail first.
1. Garfield Peak Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length: 3.4 miles
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Elevation Gain: 1069 ft.
- Best Time of Year to Visit: July-October
- Dog Friendly: No
Garfield Peak Trail is the most popular hike at Crater Lake National Park. This hike starts with a steep climb. But don’t let that deter you, the steep climb only lasts for about a half-mile, and then things calm down. You’ll be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views of the deep blue lake we call Crater Lake.
Garfield Peak Trailhead is just off the parking lot for the Crater Lake Lodge.
Read recent comments on Garfield Peak Trail
2. Cleetwood Cove Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length: 2.0 miles
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Elevation Gain: 620 ft.
- Best Time of Year to Visit: July-October
- Dog Friendly: No
This is the only trail in Crater Lake National Park that will take you down to the shore of Crater Lake. While you are at the water you might as well put your feet in or take a swim, but be warned, the water is cold.
Cleetwood Cove Trail is pretty strenuous with many switchbacks, but it is worth it.
Take a boat tour of Crater Lake. Tickets can be purchased in the parking area near the trailhead.
Read recent comments on Cleetwood Cove Trail.
3. Watchman Peak Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length: 1.7 miles
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Elevation Gain: 400 ft.
- Best Time of Year to Visit: July-October
- Dog Friendly: No
Watchman Peak Trail leads you to a historic fire lookout. You’ll find yourself immersed in 360-degree views of Crater Lake National Park. Opt to hike this trail at night, led by park rangers for the best views of the star-filled night sky.
Watchman Peak Trailhead starts at the Watchman Overlook Pull Out. You’ll find the trailhead on the south end of the paved parking area.
Read recent comments on Watchman Peak Trail.
4. Discovery Point Trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 2.4 miles
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Elevation Gain: 337 ft.
- Best Time of Year to Visit: July-October
- Dog Friendly: No
Discovery Point Trail is an easy hike that will give you spectacular views of Wizard Island. This trail is open year-round.
Discovery Point Trailhead- There isn’t an official trailhead for this trail. The trail is located on the west end of Rim Village.
Read recent comments on Discovery Point Trail.
5. Mount Scott Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length: 4.2 miles
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Elevation Gain: 1259 ft.
- Best Time of Year to Visit: July-October
- Dog Friendly: No
Mount Scott is the highest point in Crater Lake National Park.
Mount Scott Trailhead- Parking can be found right off of Rim Rd. Look for signs for Mount Scott Trail.
Read recent comments on Mount Scott Trail.
6. Plaikni Falls Trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 2.0 miles
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Elevation Gain: 137 ft.
- Best Time of Year to Visit: March-October
- Dog Friendly: No
This short, easy trail will lead you through old-growth forest, rocky bluffs & wildflowers. The lush vegetation eventually opens up to reveal Plaikni Falls.
Plaikni Falls Trailhead- There is a small parking lot off Pinnacles Rd.
Read recent comments about Plaikni Falls Trail.
7. Sun Notch Trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 0.8 miles
- Trail Type: Loop
- Elevation Gain: 127 ft.
- Best Time of Year to Visit: March-October
- Dog Friendly: No
Sun Notch Trail is a short trail that will lead you through a wildflower meadow to the edge of the rim. There’s a fantastic viewpoint of Phantom Ship Island.
Sun Notch Trailhead- The trailhead is located just off a small parking area off of E Rim Drive.
Read recent comments on Sun Notch Trail.
8. Wizard Island Trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 2.3 miles
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Elevation Gain: 751 ft.
- Best Time of Year to Visit: June-September
- Dog Friendly: No
To get to Wizard Island you’ll need to purchase tickets for the boat ride near the Cleetwood Cove Trailhead. Then take Cleetwood Cove Trail down to the lakeshore. The shuttle boat will pick you up at the dock and take you to the Wizard Island Trailhead.
Read recent comments on Wizard Island Trail.
9. Pinnacles Valley Trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 0.8 miles
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Elevation Gain: 42 ft.
- Best Time of Year to Visit: June-September
- Dog Friendly: No
Pinnacles Valley Trail is an easy walk along the rim of Pinnacle Valley. Pinnacles trail is a great place to see volcanic spires.
Pinnacles Valley Trailhead- At the end of Pinnacles Spur Road there will be a parking area. The trailhead is just off the parking area.
Read recent comments on Pinnacles Valley Trail.
10. Mazama Village to Rim Village at Crater Lake
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length: 8.3 miles
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Elevation Gain: 1742 ft.
- Best Time of Year to Visit: June-September
- Dog Friendly: No
This trail wanders through the forest which means that there is plenty of shade. It also means that there can be a lot of bugs and mosquitoes. So don’t forget the bug spray. Mazama Village to Rim Village at Crater Lake Trail will reward you with impressive views of Crater Lake.
You can cut the trail in half by catching a free shuttle from Rim Village back to Mazama Village.
Mazama Village to Rim Village Trailhead- You’ll use Annie’s Creek Spur Trail Trailhead off of Munson Valley Rd. Annie’s Creek Spur Trail will eventually meet up with Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail and you’ll follow that to Rim Village.
Read recent comments on Mazama Village to Rim Village Trail.
Dog-Friendly Trails at Crater Lake
- Lady of the Woods
- Godfrey Glen
- Annie Spur Trail (connects PCT hikers to Mazama Village)
- Greyback Road
- Pacific Crest Trail (the official PCT, not the “alternate” PCT along the rim of the lake)
What to Pack For Crater Lake National Park
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Things to do Near Crater Lake National Park
- Smith Rock State Park
Hiking – Hiking Smith Rock State Park- The Complete Guide - Tamolitch Blue Pool
Hiking – Oregon’s Tamolitch Blue Pool – The Ultimate Guide - Secret Beach
Beach – Secret Beach – All You Need to Know
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FAQ – Best Hikes In Crater Lake National Park
Is Crater Lake a hard hike?
Crater Lake has 2 hard hikes. They are Pacific Crest Trail and Alternate Loop Trail (31 miles long) and Lightning Trail – PCT Loop (22.8 miles long). The rest of the trails at Crater Lake National Park are of easy or moderate difficulty. There is something for everyone.
Can you hike all the way around Crater Lake?
There is a scenic drive with plenty of viewpoints that goes all the way around Crater Lake, but there is not a trail that goes all the way around. However, the Pacific Crest Trail will take you along a good chunk of the Crater Lake Rim.
How long is Rim Road around Crater Lake?
Rim Road in Crater Lake National Park is 33 miles long and has some of the best viewpoints in Crater Lake.
Final Thoughts On Best HIkes in Crater Lake National Park
I had so much fun putting together this list of the best hikes in Crater Lake National Park. Crater Lake is truly a sight to be seen and you can’t go wrong with any of these hikes. What one are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments.
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