Explore crater lake - view hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you.

Dec 27 - Beautiful and lots of snow. Absolutely gorgeous views of the lake with snowy mountains as backdrop. Was able to hike up about half of Garfield Peak but it was pretty snowy/icy. Would only recommend with proper gear (snow shoes, gaitors, snow pants, etc.)
LOVED this hike. It’s similar to multnomah falls with the length and switchbacks. Except it’s way hotter and sandier. The views the whole way down are incredible. I got there at 9 am and there was hardly anyone else on the trail. Once we got down there were places to get in the water and cliff jump. It is very rocky at the water so it’s a bit tricky to get in but it’s worth it. The water is COLD and I went in the middle of August. The hike up was difficult but if you take it slow and bring enough water it’s definitely manageable. This was my all time favorite hike!!!!
Tried to do this trail today but it was rainy and so foggy the lake wasn’t even remotely visible. Not upset at all, it was a risk we took knowing the weather, just wanted to leave the review to save others from the long drive up only to be disappointed! If you are going to attempt, definitely ask the gate attendant about the views at the top and trust what they say! :)
Hiked on a weekday in early November, trail was quiet with beautiful clear views. (Likely not as worth it on cloudy days as it’s really all about the lake view.) There was no ice or snow on the ground, would rate the hike as moderate.
Trail itself was pretty easy. Went on a day where it was freezing cold back in September...sleet as we got closer to the top and completely cloudy so we couldn’t see the lake. Sadly it was the only day we had for Crater Lake. Would love to go back on a clear day, as the trail was challenging but very doable.
Without snow this is a pretty easy trail & a good way to get some elevation for a great view. Lightly traveled at this time of year. I’ve done it before with snowshoes & it can be treacherous. Would only recommend for the very experience.
Short, somewhat steep climb to one of the best viewpoints in the park. It gives you a great view of Wizard Island and the entire lake. Get there early to enjoy the views as the space at the top can get crowded.
Beautiful views of Crater Lake and the surrounding mountains. Able to see Shasta on a clear day. A bit of climb but a short distance. Well worth the effort
Good hike and good workout as it's uphill the whole way. I was on the trail around noon on Saturday and it was not very crowded at all. I had the whole top to myself for about 20 minutes. Great views all around and trail easy to follow.
Started in the mist and fog but cleared to a fantastic vista by the time we hit the top. Trail is a steady incline, but not overly taxing. So many places to stop for a moment and enjoy the view.
Beautiful views and an invigorating hike. Would definitely recommend to anyone in the area.
Beautiful
Gorgeous views. The higher you go, the bluer the water looks. Nice “stairclimber” uphill hike. We hiked it around noon on Monday 10/19 and saw maybe 10 people the whole way up and down. Super quiet. But the views...WOW.
Fairly easy hike with beautiful views. I would recommend beginning this trail in the early afternoon hours to make sure the fog/ clouds roll through enough to give you the view at the top. Make sure to wear layers!