Explore Bend, Oregon Crater Lake Trip - view hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you.
the trail itself is packed the whole way through. some spots are pretty icy, but I managed to get through. you don't need traction devices, although some spots made me wish I had them. it helps a ton to have trekking poles. the lake is incredibly sunny and bright so make sure to bring shades.
Conquered this hike last summer. Quite a steep hike for a beginner but there were some good spots to stop and catch your breath. A gorgeous view at the top that lets you see the entirety of Crater Lake. A little crowded at the top but definitely worth it.
reviewed Nice hike with a beautiful view of the mountain. Snow is packed
About 10 cars in the lot which is clear/dry. Snow on the trail was mostly hard packed but sun made it a bit slushy in spots. No snowshoes needed. I just went with boots & YakTrax. Gorgeous views of the snow-covered lake and Mt Hood!
Very snowy but a beautiful frozen lake.
Nice hike. On the “easy” side of moderate if you’re in decent shape. Started at about 2:15pm on a Sunday - probably saw about 40 people, and most were wearing masks. Still about three feet of snow out there but the trail is well packed. You could do it without spikes but now that the snow is starting to melt it’s a bit slick in parts, and I’m really glad I had my spikes. That said, lake is still frozen, but really nice view at the top!
Views are breathtaking! Traction devices recommended, but not necessary. Snow was compact enough to hike with good trail shoes/boots. Can't wait to come back!
Beautiful veiws, wish I could have finished it. I agree with the reviews below. I almost always finish a hike, but this one got too steep. I and the couple behind me all turned around with our snow shoes because of how steep it was. We also were having a hard time finding the actual trail. I’m sure a more experienced snowshoer may have more luck, as this was my first time ever wearing them. I still had a wonderful time though.
Snow was falling the entire time. Only wore hiking boots and did just fine walking. Got there about 9am and didn’t see anyone until our way back. So peaceful!
The trail is closed due to deep snow, Rangers said it will be closed until June. Still able to drive to some spots and get out to beautiful views though.
Took the bicycle trail down to the lake and the main trail/road back. Beautiful walk. Bring the spikes, especially for the last stretch back up to the car park. Snowshoes are only needed if you head off trail a bit. Most everyone was dutifully wearing their masks. Well done, good people!
gorgeous
Relatively easy and short trail with beautiful vistas around the lake. Trail is very well defined despite the snow. Would definitely recommend to take spikes.
Went up on 4/2/2021. Made it up about half way before we decided it was a little too sketchy. You need snowshoes for sure. Gets really steep before the ridge line and we weren’t quite sure where the trail was so maybe we were off, but it was still beautiful and we had lunch on a big rock with spectacular views of the lake with no one around us
Great short hike. Paved and pretty heavily travelled with great views!
Pristine views
Hiked on 3/30/21. Recommend traction like yaktrak, and sunglasses for around the lake. It is possible to do the full loop but you will sink a little in the snow. Always love this hike, cool to see in different seasons.
So much snow. Loved it.
Great sidewalk trail for anyone.
trail impassable where i turned around.
Beautiful accessible trail. Very windy, not sure if that is usually the weather or if it happen to be a very windy day, but it was somewhat difficult to stay on the trail. Amazing views of Mt. Bachelor and the Sisters.
