11 Best Hikes At Crater Lake National Park

From the eclectic myriad of a purple sunset to the sweet embrace of mother nature, Crater Lake National Park is a space worth visiting. So it only makes sense to look for all the best hikes at Crater Lake National Park to make your visit a memorable one.

Over half a million people visit Crater Lake National Park each year, and it’s easy to see why. With so many different hiking trails around the area, each with its unique sights and views, it’s an experience unlike any other. Whether you decide to visit in summer or want to strap on some snowshoes to hike the wintery depths of the park, there’s something for everyone here. 

So, if you love the crisp smell of pine and mesmerizing views, you’re in the right place. This guide will show you the best hikes at Crater Lake National Park for every skill level. 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you.

How to Get to Crater Lake

Crater Lake – Klamath Regional Airport is located around an hour south of Crater Lake National Park, so it’s your best option if you’re flying in. There are also other airports nearby, including Redmond, Eugene, and Portland. 

After flying in, you’ll most likely need to rent a car to get around, as there is no shuttle service in the park. The most convenient entrance to use is the West entrance (direct from Medford) and the South entrance (direct from Klamath Falls). Luckily, the airports in both cities have great rental car offers.

>>>Rent A Car Here<<<

Map Of Best Hikes At Crater Lake National Park

Best Time to Go Hiking at Crater Lake

Most parts of Crater Lake National Park are open year-round. However, going between July and September is recommended for the best weather without all the crowds. The main route through the park, Rim Drive, is also only open from mid-July to mid-October. 

If you go during July and August, ensure you plan your hikes very early in the morning, usually around sunrise, to avoid the crowds. If you plan to visit during September, ensure you go after Labor Day, as most people will have gone home by then.

What To Pack For Hiking at Crater Lake

• Bug Spray: Bring some good bug spray, just in case. >Buy Some Here
• Sunscreen: One of the ten essentials! I always bring this with me. >Buy Sunscreen
• Hiking Boots/Shoes: If you use tennis shoes, you can easily hurt your toes hitting a rock by accident (Trust me I have done it so many times).  >Check Out My Hiking Shoes
• Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps prevent blisters while hiking at Crater Lake. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. I also love how they now have pink socks too 🙂 >Buy Hiking Socks
• Refillable water bottle: I always bring a Hydroflask on all my adventures. They are on the heavier side, but I know for a fact they will not break. I have had a few cheap water bottles break on me before. >Check Prices Now
• Water Reservoir: You might need more water than a water bottles worth. The great thing about this reservoir is that it doesn’t have the plastic taste. >Here Is My Water Reservoir
• Water: Stay nice and hydrated.
• Sunglasses: It can get sunny, so make sure to pack some sunglasses. >Check Out These Sunglasses
• Snacks: The best snacks are jerky, nuts, energy bars, and extra food. >>>Check Out These Snacks!
• Camera: The camera I have linked was one of the first cameras I started using on my travels. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography.  >Buy Sony Camera Here
• First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I first started going on adventures. It is super portable. >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
• Day Pack to carry all your things: The REI bag I have linked, we have had for seven years now, and it is still going strong! >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
• Leggings or Hiking Pants: I love wearing leggings while hiking because I love how comfy they are. Here are my leggings.  >Click For My Leggings
• Breathable sweat-wicking shirts: Try not to wear cotton because it soaks up your sweat and can cause hypothermia in the mountains. >Buy Shirt Here
• Sports Bra: For women >>>Click Here
• Jacket: If you go in the winter, fall, or spring bring a jacket! The elevation is pretty high here. >Buy My Favorite Jacket
• Rain Jacket: When hiking in Oregon, you need this in case it starts pouring on you, which is always a possibility in the PNW. >Buy A Great Rain Jacket Here
• Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the ideal sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
• Fire Starter and Matches: This is just in case of an emergency. >Buy These Stormproof Matches Just In Case
• Compass: I always carry this with me, just in case. >Click Here To Buy
• Knife: You never know if you will need it. >Buy My Knife Here
• Headlamp: A headlamp is an absolute must in case you get lost, or you take longer than you thought you would to complete a hike. Trust me, it happens even to me. >Buy A Headlamp Now
• Trekking Poles: I recommend these for people with bad knees like me. >Buy The Poles Shown In My Picture
• Bathing suit: If you are are swimming in the lake bring one! >Buy One Here
• Crampons: If you are hiking outside of the summer months, I highly recommend always having this in your backpack. >Buy My Handy Dandy Crampons 
• Crater Lake Map: A map is essential so you don’t get lost. I usually bring with me AllTrails+ map on my phone, and a physical map. I love National Geographic’s maps. They are good quality. >>>Check It Out Here

How Much Time Should You Spend in Crater Lake?

Depending on how many trails you want to attempt, it can range anywhere from a day trip to a few days to enjoy the natural beauty and trails. 

Don’t fret – you can still have an adventure jam-packed with the best Crater Lake hikes all in one day. If you’re an avid hiker who wants a challenge, then consider spending a week here to explore pretty much all the trails.

Where to Stay in Crater Lake

There are plenty of places to stay near Crater Lake National Park. Let’s take a look at some accommodation options in various price ranges.

Luxury: Crater Lake Resort

Crater Lake Resort is a gorgeous spot to stay outside the national park. With wood-toned furnishings in the cabins, free private parking, and a fully equipped kitchen, there’s no reason for you to go anywhere else (except for Crater Lake, of course). 

There are also cabins without kitchens here, as well as glamping sites (if you don’t want to fully commit to being out in nature). You can even have a little barbecue at the outdoor fireplace if you haven’t yet grown tired of the weather. 

The resort also has a sun terrace where you can relax with a cold drink and soak up the sun. >>>Check Availability

Mid-Range: Crater Lake Lodge 

Crater Lake Lodge is open between May and October and is a gorgeous hotel that overlooks the lake. You can choose between adjoining rooms if you and your family are traveling together or regular rooms if you’d like some downtime on your own. 

Some rooms even have a view of the lake right from your bed. They serve a full breakfast every morning, and for dinner, you can choose between Annie Creek Restaurant or Crater Lake Lodge Dining. You need a reservation for the latter, though. >>>Check Availability

Budget: Cabins at Mazama Village

The Cabins at Mazama Village are open between May and September and are located about seven miles south of Rim Village. The cabins here are gorgeous, with a rustic design and historic furnishings. Close to the lodge, you’ll find Annie Creek Restaurant, where you can indulge in a mouthwatering dinner. There’s also a store in the village that carries groceries, firewood, gasoline, and camping supplies in case you need any. >>>Check Availability

Campground: Mazama Campground

For the campers who want to rough it in the wild, you can head down to Mazama Campground. This campground is open from mid-June to late September and has 214 campsites. There are also 18 sites with electrical hookups for RVs and trailers. Mazama Campground is the largest in Crater Lake National Park and should definitely be your first choice (if you value a hot shower, that is). 

This campground is close to the hiking trails and has many amenities, including laundry, food lockers, coin-operated showers with hot water, and the Mazama Village Store. You do need to make a reservation for the Mazama Campground, but it’s easy to do using Crater Lake Hospitality. >>>Check Availability

Read More: Where to Stay Near Crater Lake National Park | Lodging & More

11 Best Crater Lake Hikes to Try

From the easy and peaceful Plaikni Falls trail to the strenuous but rewarding Garfield Peak trail, here are 11 of the best Crater Lake hiking trails.

Cleetwood Cove Trail

• Mileage: 2 miles (Out and back)
• Elevation Gain: 620 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Cleetwood Cove Trail has to be the most popular hike in Crater Lake National Park, and for good reason. This trail is the only one with access to the lake and is usually where the boat tours start. So if you want to spend some time next to the lake, soaking up the peaceful vibes of nature, then Cleetwood Cove Trail should be on your list. 

Start along Rim Drive before heading over steep switchbacks for over 600 feet. Be careful if you’re an inexperienced or beginner hiker since these switchbacks are pretty challenging. At the end of Cleetwood Cove Trail, you’ll come across the gorgeous blue of Crater Lake. Consider booking a boat tour after your hike to maximize your time on one of the best hikes at Crater Lake.

Watchman Peak Trail

• Mileage: 1.7 miles (Out and back)
• Elevation Gain: 400 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Watchman Peak Trail is another popular trail in Crater Lake National Park with similar sights to Garfield Peak (more on that later). However, it’s much easier to traverse, and beginners shouldn’t have a problem hiking this trail. Watchman Peak Trail starts at Watchman Overlook on West Rim Drive near the lake, then climbs to a lookout at the top of Watchman Peak. 

There are some switchbacks on the trail, but they’re not as tricky as the ones on Garfield Peak. The summit lookout on Watchman Peak rewards you with gorgeous views of the lake, the Cascades, and Wizard Island. This summit is actually listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so it must be magical.

Plaikni Falls Trail

• Mileage: 2 miles (Out and back)
• Elevation Gain: 137 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Plaikni Falls Trail is an out-and-back trail that leads to breathtaking waterfalls in Crater Lake National Park. This peaceful trail is easy for beginners as there are plenty of benches to stop and take a break, and the path itself isn’t too difficult or steep. Plaikni Falls Trail starts at Pinnacles Drive at the base of Mount Scott and passes through an old-growth forest filled with mountain hemlock and fir. 

Sand Creek runs alongside this Crater Lake hike and has wildflowers that decorate the entire trail. You’ll eventually end up at Plaikni Falls, where the waterfalls flow all year round. 

And if you’re wondering, the best time to see the Plaikni Falls is in spring or early summer, as they’re still surrounded by some snowmelt. This route is also wheelchair accessible for the most part, but there is a bit of an incline toward the end to be mindful of.

Mount Scott Trail

• Mileage: 4.2 miles (Out and back)
• Elevation Gain: 1,259 feet
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Trail Guide: Link

Mount Scott Trail is probably the most difficult and steepest trail in the park, so it’s not recommended for beginners or even intermediate hikers. It takes you to the highest point in Crater Lake National Park, where you will have the most spectacular views of the lake and surrounding areas. 

Mount Scott Trail starts at East Rim Drive, where you’ll hike along the ridgeline until you reach Mount Scott. It’s a steep hike to the summit, but the breathtaking views along the way make it worth the effort. 

Once you’re at the top, remember to breathe and take in the beauty around you. If you go on a nice clear day, you might even see as far as Mount Shasta, so be prepared to be blown away. This trail commonly has snow year-round due to the elevation, so bring extra layers and be careful of ice on the trail.

Garfield Peak Trail

• Mileage: 3.4 miles (Out and back)
• Elevation Gain: 1,069 feet
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Trail Guide: Link

Garfield Peak Trail is one of the most challenging hikes in Crater Lake National Park, but you’ll be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views at the end. This trail starts behind the lodge and goes through pine forests and hemlock groves, boasting some gorgeous views. So be sure to take in the sights around you. 

On your final ascent to Garfield Peak, you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking panoramic view of the lake and national park. You’re probably asking yourself – how hard can it be? Well, it’s an incredibly strenuous hike with quite the incline that can be difficult even for the most physically fit. However, if you manage to make it through, then it won’t be all for nothing.

Discovery Point Trail

• Mileage: 2.4 miles (Out and back)
• Elevation Gain: 337 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Discovery Point Trail is a great option for beginners and those who just want to enjoy a leisurely stroll. With gorgeous views of Wizard Island and the beauty of nature surrounding you, this is the perfect trail for a mid-vacation wind-down. 

This trail was named in 1853 by John Wesley Hillman after he ‘discovered’ it (hence the name). In truth, the trail existed long before he was even born and was probably known before its discovery as Crater Lake was an important place to the indigenous people of southern Oregon. 

Your hike will be surrounded by looming hemlock and pine trees and lake views as you go down the trail. Once you get to Discovery Point Overlook, you’ll be amazed by the beauty of this trail that has survived for so long.

Annie Creek Canyon Trail

• Mileage: 2.1 miles (Loop)
• Elevation Gain: 305 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

If you want a nice, quiet hike without all the hustle and bustle of people, then the Annie Creek Canyon Trail is right up your street. The trail starts in Mazama Village and offers an easy-breezy walk through some picturesque wildflowers and brush and along peace-inducing streams.

Unlike other Crater Lake hikes, Annie Creek Canyon Trail will take you through the most beautiful and quiet parts of Crater Lake National Park. It’s a flat trail that descends into the canyon right before you reach the creek, and perfect for some meditation and enjoying a serene atmosphere. 

Sun Notch Trail

• Mileage: 0.8 miles (Loop)
• Elevation Gain: 127 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Sun Notch Trail is one of the easiest Crater Lake hikes that runs on a loop trail. This short hike starts at Sun Notch Trailhead on the southern side of the lake and, from there, heads through some meadows filled with wildflowers decorating its path.

Stop at Sun Notch to take in the views before heading to Phantom Ship overlook, where you’ll see a small rock spire peeking out of the lake resembling a pirate ship. If you go on a foggy day, this rock might look like a ghost ship sailing across Crater Lake. This trail is perfect for a sunset hike and even deer spotting in the meadows.

Pinnacles Valley Trail

• Mileage: 0.8 miles (Out and back)
• Elevation Gain: 42 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

If you want a unique and fun experience in Crater Lake National Park (and we know you do), you have to hike down Pinnacles Trail. There’s a reason visiting this trail is one of the best things to do at Crater Lake. 

On this hike, you’ll see some otherworldly sights, like pinnacle spires made of pumice and volcanic ash, over 12,000 years old. Pinnacles Valley Trail starts at Pinnacles Road, near the parking area. From there, you have a short 0.5-mile walk to Pinnacles Overlook, where you’ll be able to see the fossil fumaroles (or pinnacles). 

It’s an easy trail that’s great for beginners and is mostly flat. Plus, it has a well-maintained gravel path that’s wide enough for wheelchair users. 

Your whole family can enjoy this hike in Crater Lake to explore spectacular sites that are older than most of the park – they might even be so distracted by the beauty that you can slip away from the family vacation for a bit. 

Wizard Island Trail

• Mileage: 2.3 miles (Out and back)
• Elevation Gain: 751 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

This fantastic hiking trail needs a little bit of effort to hike, but it’s totally worth it. You’ll be taken straight into the heart of Crater Lake, where Wizard Island sits proudly atop the deep blue lake. To get to the trailhead, you’ll need to hike through Cleetwood Cove Trail and then take a boat ride out to the island (which is just an added bonus). 

So if you want to head down this trail, be prepared for a full-day adventure hiking down two difficult trails. If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be one of the few who can enjoy the gorgeous views from the lake’s center. It’s an entirely different experience compared to standing on a summit looking down.

Castle Crest Wildflower Garden Trail

• Mileage: 1.2 miles (Loop)
• Elevation Gain: 121 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

This easy trek is worthy of being one of the best Crater Lake hikes simply because of the display of stunning wildflowers along the way. This trail lives up to its name as it passes through meadows, forests, and creeks at the base of Castle Crest, with wildflowers blooming everywhere. 

Here you can see a range of gorgeous flowers, including American Bistort, Lupine, Lewis Monkeyflower, and more. Combine the views with the soothing sound of a flowing stream, and you’ve got yourself a winner in the most peaceful Crater Lake hike category.

Crater Lake Trails: Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Crater Lake National Park and the trails.

Is There an Entry Fee?

Crater Lake National Park does have an entrance fee, which will cost you anywhere between $15 and $30. They also have an annual entrance pass for $55, which is worth the money if you plan on visiting Crater Lake more than once. 

Cash is no longer accepted at the park, but as long as you have your debit or credit card on you, you’ll be fine. Samsung and Apple Pay work too.

You can also get an America the Beautiful National Park Pass. It costs $80 and is valid for 12 months. If you’re an avid hiker, this pass is perfect for you since you can access all 400+ national parks in the US, including Crater Lake.

Can You Hike to Crater Lake?

Yes, you can hike to the shores of the lake. There is only one trail that allows this, though, and that’s Cleetwood Cove. It’s a moderate hike but still a bit strenuous, so only recommended for intermediate to experienced hikers. It’s one of the best Crater Lake hikes, though, and is worth the journey.

Are Pets Allowed on the Hiking Trails?

There is a lot of wildlife activity in the park and sensitive ecosystems that shouldn’t be disturbed, so unfortunately, pets aren’t allowed on most hiking trails (which is incredibly sad). You can bring your furball with you on some routes, such as the Pacific Crest Trail and Lady of the Woods, though. 

They are also allowed in the Lost Creek Campground and all picnic areas, so not all hope is lost. Pets are not allowed on the Cleetwood Cove Trail at all due to the surrounding nature.

How Difficult Is Crater Lake Hiking?

Ultimately, it depends on your skill and fitness level. There are many Crater Lake hikes and trails that range from easy to difficult. They also have their own unique quirks, so if you’re up for the adventure, you can try and see them all. If you’re a beginner, you won’t have to worry about missing out on anything, though, since the views are just as great on the easy trails.

Final Thoughts on Hiking at Crater Lake

Whether you’re a beginner hiker testing the waters or an expert who wants to enjoy some new challenges, Crater Lake National Park has something for everyone. With its unique sights and magical views of the surrounding areas, you’ll definitely find Crater Lake worth your time. 

So what are you waiting for? Book your trip right now. And while you’re at it, why not take a peek at some of the other national parks to visit in the springtime to make the most of your journey?

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