CRATER LAKE
Crater Lake NP
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.
- click to see trail photos from this backpacking trip around Crater Lake: July 22, 1996
- click to view a detailed trip report of this hike on the Pacific Crest Trail: July 22, 1996* (password required)
- click to view a backcountry log report for this hike near Crater Lake Lodge: July 22, 1996
- click to view maps of this are around Crater Lake National Park: area map, detailed map*, park map, profile map
- click for more information on the Pacific Crest Trail
- click for the Long Trail discussion forum
- click for the Other Destinations discussion forum
- click for Pacific Crest Trail hiking and backpacking books
- click for links to other outdoor books and magazines
- click here to add your hike, trip report, or feedback for this destination
- note, the * indicates these items are not linked but coming soon
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