Backpacking offers a great way to see and experience the wildernesses of Oregon without the crowds.
Here is a small list of just some of the awesome places to backpack in Crater Lake National Park.
Crater Lake National Park has over 90 miles of hiking trails that are accessible in the summer months, providing visitors a great way to discover the park. The park receives an average of 43 feet of snow each year, making the winter months challenging. However, if you're prepared, the parks winter trails and unplowed roads provide skiers and snowshoers with access to open slopes, dense forests, and breathtaking views, making Crater Lake ideal for both day-trippers and back-country visitors.
In the summer months backpack on several different trails depending on the groups experience and desires.
These trails include:
1. Large PCT Loop Distance: 30 miles
Hike a segment of the West Rim Trail and Pacific Crest Trail. Route passes by the following designated campsites: Grouse Hill, Red Cone Springs, Bybee Creek, and Dutton Creek (with a possible stop at Lightning Springs).
2. Small PCT Loop Distance: 24.8 miles
Hike a segment of the West Rim Trail and Pacific Crest Trail. Route passes by the following designated campsites: Lightning Springs, Grouse Hill, Red Cone Springs, and Bybee Creek.
3. Dutton/Lightning Loop Distance:12.8 miles
Hike a small segment of the West Rim Trail and Pacific Crest Trail. Route passes by Lightning Springs and Dutton Creek campsites.
4. Bald Crater Loop Distance: 20.3 miles
Hike a small segment of the Pacific Crest Trail and branch off to loop around Bald Crater, passing by Sphagnum Bog (no camping allowed), and Red Cone Springs campsite.
5. Union Peak/Stuart Falls Distance: 22.4 miles
Hike two segments of the Pacific Crest Trail, branch off to climb Union Peak, and then continue on the PCT to Stuart Falls. This hike is out and back, with no loop option.
6. Dispersed Camping Distance: Varies
Crater Peak, South of Grayback Drive, East Scotts Bluffs, Anderson Bluffs.
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