The best walks and hikes around Crater Lake

Yes, the park has several great options for families. The Crater Lake National Park – Rim Village loop from Crater Lake Lodge is a relatively flat and easy walk along the rim with fantastic views. For a different experience, the Castle Crest Wildflower Trail is a very short loop that is spectacular in mid-summer.

Pets are generally not permitted on most hiking trails within Crater Lake National Park to protect wildlife and the natural environment. They are allowed on paved roads and in parking lots, and on a few specific paved paths like the one at Rim Village. Always check the official National Park Service website for the most current pet regulations before your visit.

The primary hiking season is typically from July to September. Snow can linger on many trails well into July, and new snow can begin to fall as early as October. The 33-mile Rim Drive, which provides access to many trailheads, is also subject to seasonal closures. Always check current trail conditions and road status on the park's official website before you go.

Yes, you can hike to Plaikni Falls. This is a relatively easy 2-mile round-trip trail that leads through an old-growth forest to a beautiful waterfall. It's a great option if you're looking for a change of scenery from the lake views.

Yes, but there is only one legal trail to the shore. The Cleetwood Cove Trail – Crater Lake National Park is a steep and strenuous 2.1-mile round-trip hike that descends over 700 feet to the water. This is also where the boat tours depart. Remember, you have to hike back up!

The Watchman Peak Trail is widely considered one of the best spots in the park to watch the sunset. This moderately steep 1.6-mile round-trip hike leads to a historic fire lookout on the western rim, offering stunning views of Wizard Island as the sun goes down.

Yes, a section of the famous Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) runs through the park. The Pacific Crest Trail and Alternate – Crater Lake National Park route offers a fantastic day hike or a segment of a longer backpacking trip along the western rim of the caldera. Backcountry camping requires a permit, which you can get from the park's administration.

Yes, you can hike on Wizard Island, but you must take a boat tour to get there. Once on the island, you can take the Wizard Island loop, which climbs to the summit of the volcanic cone for incredible 360-degree views from inside the caldera.

The Garfield Peak Trail – Crater Lake National Park is a steady climb with significant elevation gain over its 3.5-mile round-trip distance. While not technically difficult, it is considered strenuous due to the ascent. The panoramic views of the lake from the top make the effort well worth it.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers consistently praise the unparalleled, intense blue color of the lake and the dramatic cliffside views from the rim trails. The variety of hikes, from challenging summit climbs to peaceful forest walks, is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

There are over 40 distinct hiking routes to explore around Crater Lake on komoot, covering approximately 90 miles of trails within the national park. These range from easy, short walks along the rim to strenuous full-day hikes to mountain summits.