Union Peak Trail

Easy to get to and well marked trailhead. Minimal elevation gain until you reach the climb to the peak. You do need to climb up some rocks at the top, but the incredible views are worth it! The hike is a bit over 11 miles.

Well, if you read the trail sign at the trailhead, it says it is the “steepest in Southern Oregon”. With the exception of the top of Thielson, they might be right. Been up there 3 times now and it never disappoints. Clear skies, a bit on the windy side today, but just keep working your way up, and go into “ 4 on the floor” at the final 30 feet if you need to. Only 3 others seen today.... on a Sunday!

Wonderful if somewhat difficult trail. The last push is 36 switchbacks and 600-700 feet in half a mile over loose rock. No views from the top this morning as the peak was in a cloud. I’ll look forward to returning in sunnier weather.

Great views today. Not as bad as I thought it would be.

Had a blast cruising through this cool section of forest on the PCT. Kinda heavy smoke as you started climbing the peak. Still had a blast!

First 4 miles is a relatively easy stroll through the forest. The last mile is a bunch of rocky, steep switchbacks. Last 200 feet vertical is hand over hand crawling on bolders. Great views in all directions somewhat obscured by smoke. Great hike.

We had the entire trail to ourselves all day. We kept up a loud racket, singing and chatting, to keep the mountain lions -- which had been sighted on the trail earlier in the month -- at bay. The rocky scramble at the peak was a little intimidating, but very fun. Super buggy at the top. We did many of the trails in Crater Lake this week and Union Peak was a highlight. With plenty of water and sun protection, this trail is very enjoyable.

good trail, didn't finish the last 200 yds due to my having height issues, but good trail up to that point.

Don't know why we didn't do it sooner. Definitely a gem of a hike.

This was my first ever solo backpacking trip completed over a year ago and a good one at that. I don’t remember the elevation gain being an issue, felt gradual. It was a rainy day, camped out a little before the peak off the trail in the woods; the night was a little spooky considering all the factors (first solo backpacking trip, rainy, camped in a forest) but an incredible and memorable experience as a result. I’ve created a montage of my trip (dated 7/4/2020) that can be viewed on my Instagram @ExplorerJerrin. Cheers!

I cannot speak to the entire trail, and after reading another review I wish I had bc the Peak sounded really nice. But I only had three days in Crater Lake National Park at the end of summer and I did a bunch of hikes all relating to the bluest of lakes. I did about half of the Union Peak Trail as I backcountry camped at about the half way point where the PCT and the Union Peak Trl intersect. It is a beautiful place with tall old trees, a really splendid peaceful forest. For my full trip report with pictures, video and story including find bear poop next to my tent please visit my blog which will also have other great hikes I recommend for Crater Lake: https://nationalparkshikingpursuingbalancethruadventure.wordpress.com/2020/02/04/back-country-camping/

Fun hike all the way but the actual peak climb was my favorite. Expansive views during the climb. Geological marker at the top. Would rate as moderate.