Peak-a-View!

Hike to Garfield Peak in Crater Lake National Park

07.29.2020
Hike to Garfield Peak in Crater Lake National Park

That blue! Crater Lake National Park has the deepest lake in the country and the seventh deepest in the world. The park is a volcanic wonder, created when a massive eruption collapsed 12,000-foot Mount Mazama thousands of years ago.

The marquee attraction is the stunning lake, surrounded by huge, sheer cliffs that are reflected on the water. The setting is all the more enchanting with Wizard Island—a volcanic cinder cone set right in its midst. It’s utterly photogenic.

Hikers heading up the trail to Garfield Peak in Crater Lake National Park Oregon

Hikers on the trail to Garfield Peak in Crater Lake National Park

Hikers sitting and overlooking Crater Lake at Garfield Peak in Crater Lake National Park

For one of the very best perspectives of Crater Lake, hike the 3.4-mile (total) out-and-back to Garfield Peak. The trailhead is located at Crater Lake Lodge. Get an early start for fewer crowds and less wind.

Hike Garfield Peak Crater Lake

This is a peak hike, so it’s all about going up, but it’s pretty gradual, and totally rewarding. The views are with you most of the way, and the higher you go, the better the view of the lake and surrounding Cascade Mountain Range, including as far as Mount Lassen on a clear day.

BONUS KAYAK: You can't kayak or canoe on Crater Lake, but you can do both in the Klamath Basin. The Upper Klamath Canoe Trail is ideal for an afternoon exploration. The entire Upper Klamath Canoe Trail is 9.5 miles, but you can paddle a shorter duration, too. Keep an eye out for river otters and enjoy some premier views of snowy Mount McLoughlin. Rent a kayak or canoe from ROE Outfitters and ask about their guided tours too. ROE Outfitters also has a zipline.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST: In the episode "Road Trip to Spectacular: National Park, Hot Springs & Hikes" the Weekend Sherpa team discuss their adventures in Southern Oregon. Part of the podcast was recorded from the top of Garfield Peak!

Kayakers on Upper Klamath Canoe Trail in Southern Oregon

TIP: If you want to spend the night in this area, Running Y Ranch Resort is a good bet, with a nice outdoor dining patio and fire pit at the Ruddy Duck restaurant.

Running Y Ranch Resort people sitting around an outdoor firepit

Check out the Best Southern Oregon Road Trips

2020 Travel: Here’s more information on Southern Oregon’s health guidelines and updates.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. A man takes a break at a temple spot on a hike at Dragon Mountain in Milptas

    Dragon Quest

    The newly reopened, 4-mile out-and-back hike at Dragon Mountain in Milpitas mixes the physical with the spiritual for a serene hiking experience.

    View

  2. H is for Hawk Hill

    After a nearly year-long closure, Hawk Hill in the legendary Marin Headlands recently emerged with a glow-up. Thank the hearty TLC from the National Park Service. This Golden Gate National Recreation Area gem now has a new trail along with revamped spaces for taking in timeless, grand views.

    View
  3. Mike Zakowski (aka Mike the Baker) standing in front of his wood-fire oven at the Sonoma Valley Farmers' Market

    NEW! Walkin' and Talkin': Break Bread, Go On a Panoramic Hike

    What’s a world-traveling, medal-winning baker’s favorite local hike? Weekend Sherpa co-founder Brad Day caught up with Mike Zakowski (aka Mike the Baker) at Sonoma’s Friday farmers' market, where his wood-fired loaves draw loyal crowds. Between bites of fresh-baked bread, they talk baking, travel, and why Sonoma's Overlook Trail is one of his favorite quick, panoramic hikes.

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Warm Up to Winter in Reno Tahoe

    2026 is just getting started, but there’s one place already rising to the top as the best for adventure and relaxation: Reno Tahoe. The awe—and ahhhs—begin as soon as you arrive. G

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. People on ice learning to curl at Hollywood Curling

    You Go, Curl!

    Hollywood Curling’s Learn to Curl classes make the perfect setting for newcomers. Take the ice, and friendly curling instructors will teach you the basics.

    View

  2. Eat, Sleep, Beach, Repeat

    For an ultra-relaxing getaway where you can sit back and soak in some nature and nurture, head to Mendocino and follow this eat, beach, sleep, repeat itinerary (you won't regret it!) ...

    View

  3. This Skunk Doesn’t Stink!

    All aboard for a ride through history—and through air scented with redwood, dewy ferns, forest-fresh breeze, and a bonus snack and beverage bar, fire pit, and short hike. The World-Famous Skunk Train delivers in every category: scenery, greenery, and towering redwoods.

    View
  4. Hike Cherry Canyon Park

    Cherry on Top

    How do you reach the Ultimate Destination in LA County? Cherry Canyon Park has a 2.5-mile out-and-back hike with a vista point called, well, the Ultimate Destination.

    View