Union Peak

Big views from a rugged volcanic spire, but not of the lake

InsideCrater Lake National Park

Overview

Union Peak anchors the park’s southwest corner with a sharp, pyramid‑like profile and a rewarding, moderately long day hike. You’ll approach on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) before a steeper finale to the summit. Expect solitude compared to the rim—and a curveball: you’ll see the caldera rim, but not the lake itself.

The Hike

Plan on roughly 10 miles round trip with about 1,600 feet of gain. The PCT approach is mostly gentle through lodgepole and fir before a rocky, switchbacking final half mile. Strong hikers typically take 5–6 hours round trip. The standard access starts at the signed PCT trailhead/parking across Highway 62 from the Mazama Village entrance; follow the PCT and watch for the Union Peak spur.

Views & What You’ll See

From the summit, the payoff is big: expansive Cascades panoramas and the rim high points around the caldera—think Mt. Scott, Garfield Peak, and The Watchman—plus far‑flung horizons in all directions. Just don’t expect that classic blue lake view from up here.

Wildlife

Keep an eye out for elk in meadows at the mountain’s base and listen for the squeaks of pikas in the talus near the top. Give wildlife space and enjoy the quiet—this route sees fewer hikers than the rim trails.

Geology Snapshot

Union Peak is the heavily eroded core of an older volcano, sculpted by Ice Age glaciers into a horned spire with exposed volcanic dikes. It predates Mount Mazama (the volcano whose collapse formed the caldera), which makes its rugged remnant a different chapter of the park’s volcanic story.

Know Before You Go

No water or services on the trail—pack what you need.
The upper mountain is exposed and can be hot; the final stretch is steep and rocky.
Wayfinding is straightforward if you start from the signed PCT trailhead and watch for the spur.

Best Time to Visit

Aim for clear, snow‑free conditions; snow can linger into late spring. Start early to beat afternoon heat and possible storms, and go on weekdays if you want maximum solitude. Morning and late‑day light are best for photos and cooler temps.

Pros

Panoramic summit views across the Cascades
Quiet, less-traveled approach via the PCT
Striking eroded volcanic core and geology

Cons

Final half mile is steep and rocky
No view of Crater Lake from the summit
No water or facilities on the route

Tips

Use the signed PCT trailhead across Highway 62 from the Mazama Village entrance.
Bring plenty of water—there are no sources along the route.
Watch for the Union Peak spur off the PCT; it’s easy to stride past.
Start early; the upper section is exposed and summer storms can build.
Expect a steep, rocky final half mile—sturdy footwear recommended.