HIGHLIGHTS: For generations, Crater Lake has been a place of beauty and mystery. It is widely known for its intense blue color and spectacular views. During summer, visitors navigate the Rim Drive around the lake, enjoy boat tours on the lake surface, stay in the historic Crater Lake Lodge, camp at Mazama Village, or hike some of the park’s various trails including Mt. Scott at 8,929 ft. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) passes near the lake and the 400 mile stretch from Mount Hood to Crater Lake is the oldest section of the Pacific Crest Trail. The idea for a trail on the west coast was first proposed in the 1920s, but it was not until 1972 that all 2,638 miles of the trail were completed and hiked for the first time. We day-hiked this area during our visit but there are plenty of opportunities for overnight backcountry hikes as well.
