Rim Trail and Discovery Point Trail

The Discovery Point Trail is generally easy and relatively flat, starting paved at Rim Village and transitioning to a dirt path. It follows the crater's edge through forested areas, with some sections having roots, rocks, and exposed cliffs. The longer Rim Trail has rolling terrain, alternating between forested sections and open areas with pumice fields. Some parts, especially towards The Watchman and Hillman Peak, can be steep and challenging, while sections after Hillman Peak become significantly flatter.

Both trails offer continuous, stunning views of Crater Lake. Along the Discovery Point Trail, you'll get excellent perspectives of the lake and Wizard Island, especially from Discovery Point itself. The Rim Trail provides expansive views of Crater Lake National Park, passing iconic viewpoints like The Watchman and Merriam Point. You'll also experience the scenic Rim Village and lake view and the Rim Village area.

The best time to hike is typically from late spring to early fall, generally July through September, when the trails are clear of snow. Snow can cover sections of the Rim Trail from October to early July, potentially making it more difficult and requiring specialized gear like spikes and poles.

Dogs are permitted on the paved paths of the Rim Village area and on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) which intersects with the Rim Trail. However, dogs are generally not allowed on most unpaved trails within Crater Lake National Park, including the Discovery Point Trail and many sections of the Rim Trail. Always check current park regulations on the NPS website before your visit.

Both trails are easily accessible from Rim Village, which has parking facilities. The Discovery Point Trail starts conveniently from Rim Village. For the longer Rim Trail, you can also access various sections from different parking areas along West Rim Drive, depending on how far you plan to hike.

Yes, Crater Lake National Park charges an entrance fee. This fee typically covers entry for a certain number of days. While day-use permits are not generally required for hiking specific trails like these, backcountry permits are needed for overnight trips on the longer Rim Trail. Always check the official NPS website for the most current fee information and regulations.

The Discovery Point Trail is considered an excellent family-friendly hike due to its easy difficulty, relatively flat terrain, and consistent stunning views. The initial sections of the Rim Trail from Rim Village are also suitable for families, but longer or steeper sections of the full Rim Trail might be more challenging for younger children.

The full route, combining sections of both trails, is approximately 4.3 kilometers (2.7 miles) and typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. However, the Rim Trail itself is much longer (19.1 miles one-way), so hiking duration will vary significantly depending on the section you choose to explore.

Yes, the route primarily follows sections of the Rim Trail and the Discovery Point Trail. It also passes through parts of the Rim Promenade, Dutton Creek Trail, and Lightning Spring Trail.

While possible, hiking in winter presents significant challenges. Snow can cover sections of the trail from October to early July, making conditions difficult and potentially requiring snowshoes, skis, or microspikes and poles. Always check current conditions and road closures with Crater Lake National Park before attempting a winter hike.

If you're looking for an easier and flatter section of the longer Rim Trail, consider the part after Hillman Peak. This section becomes significantly flatter for about 5 miles towards the Red Cone Trailhead, even losing elevation, making it the least challenging part of the full one-way adventure.