Crater Peak Trail

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The Crater Peak Trail is a park favorite, in part because it strays from the classic lake views that so many other trails in the area highlight. Instead, visitors will find themselves working their way away from the water's edge, gently at first. Enjoy the shaded first portion of the trail as it is gentle and shaded. The climb is strenuous, but the views from the top are quite worthwhile.

The trailhead is located at the Vidae Falls Picnic Area off of East Rim Drive about 3 miles east of the park headquarters.

The Crater Peak Trail starts with a moderate meandering route along Videa Ridge passing through a dense forest of predominantly Shasta red fir and Mountain hemlock.

At just under the two-mile mark, the trail will begin to climb in earnest, as you start a steep and winding ascent to the summit of Crater Peak, which is a small shield volcano. Along the way, you'll pass through small stands of whitebark pine as you steadily gain elevation on your way to the top of Crater Peak.

At the summit, be sure to stop and take in the views. While there are no views of Crater Lake, you'll be rewarded with beautiful views of the Klamath Basin to the southeast.

Shasta red fir, mountain hemlock and whitebark pine.