Pros & cons
PROS
- Secluded Wizard Island shoreline with crystal-clear water for swimming or fishing
- Unique volcanic features, including a lava tongue and big caldera views
CONS
- Access is boat-only and requires advance planning
- Route becomes faint beyond the bay with sharp, uneven lava underfoot
Park at the Cleetwood Cove Trailhead, hike down to the lakeshore to board the Wizard Island boat shuttle; the hike begins at the Wizard Island dock.
Sharp, uneven volcanic rock and minimal signage past the bay; sturdy footwear essential. No services on Wizard Island—bring water, sun protection, and snacks.
Overview
This is the mellow, scenic shoreline ramble on Wizard Island that most people skip—and that’s exactly why it’s great. The Fumarole Bay Trail is an easy out-and-back along raw volcanic shoreline to a shallow, unbelievably clear cove. It’s roughly 0.8 miles one way (about 1.6 miles total), and most hikers spend about an hour on the walk itself. Expect minimal elevation change at around 6,200 feet, but do expect uneven lava rock underfoot.
Logistics and Access
You can only start this hike after a boat shuttle drops you at the Wizard Island dock. That means planning ahead for boat tickets and timing. To reach the boat on the lake, you first descend the Cleetwood Cove Trail from the rim. Once you step off at Wizard Island, the Fumarole Bay route begins right from the dock and traces the southwest shore.
Trail Experience
The tread is rough and rocky—solid shoes, not sandals. You’ll traverse black lava fragments and even cross a distinct “lava tongue” en route to the bay. Fumarole Bay itself is shallow and crystal clear, perfect for a refreshing dip or a bit of shoreline fishing. Look up from the water to the west rim and Watchman Peak towering above for a striking perspective across the caldera. Past the bay the route becomes faint and hard to follow, so most people make the bay their turnaround point and retrace their steps.
Is It For You?
If you like solitude, volcanic scenery, and the idea of swimming in sapphire water, this is your Wizard Island pick. It’s short, it’s quiet, and it feels remote. If you prefer smooth, well-signed paths, the rough lava rock and indistinct tread won’t charm you. For a different Wizard Island experience, pair this with the separate Summit Trail to the island’s volcanic vent; do the summit first, then cool off at Fumarole Bay.
Best Time to Hike
Go when the boat is running—typically summer into early fall. Mid-morning through afternoon brings warmest swimming temps. Photographers will like the softer light early and late, but build in time to catch your return boat.
Tips
- Book boat tickets in advance; there are no services on the island.
- Wear real hiking shoes; the sharp, uneven lava will punish flimsy footwear.
- Bring water, sun protection, and a towel if you plan to swim.
- Don’t expect signs beyond the bay—turn back when the route stops making sense.
Elevation
1.6 mi · 1 hrWhere it starts
42.9764, -122.0885Near Fumarole Bay Trail
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayWizard Island Summit TrailShort, steep cinder-cone climb to 360° views from an island summitModerate · 1.2 mi · 1.3 hr
0.3 mi awayCleetwood Cove TrailSteep switchbacks to the only legal shore access on Crater LakeChallenging · 2.2 mi · 1.3 hr
0.3 mi awayWizard Island Fumarole Bay TrailRugged lava shoreline to a crystal-clear, swimmable bayModerate · 1 mi · 1 hr
0.3 mi awayCleetwood Cove TrailheadSteep path to the lake’s only legal shore access and boat toursTrailhead · Restroom
0.5 mi awayCleetwood CoveOnly spot to touch the lake, swim, and catch boat toursTrailhead · Restroom
2.3 mi awayLlao Rock OverlookRoadside rim pullout with sweeping views and a textbook dacite cliffPullout · Parking
2.6 mi awaySkell HeadQuiet, undeveloped rim promontory with big views and volcanic layers
4.4 mi awayMount Scott TrailSteady climb to the park's high point with big 360-degree viewsModerate · 4.4 mi · 2.5 hr
