Garfield Peak Trail

Overview

This is the classic rim-to-summit hike at the heart of the park: a short, sustained climb to big-time views. The Garfield Peak Trail is an out-and-back of about 3.2 miles total with roughly 1,000 feet of elevation gain to an 8,060–8,061 ft summit. It starts right behind the Crater Lake Lodge at Rim Village with a brief paved rim stroll before transitioning to a well-maintained dirt path and switchbacks.

What You’ll See

Views arrive early and only get better—deep-blue lake, the volcano’s caldera rim, and landmarks like Phantom Ship and Mount Scott. To the south, the Klamath Basin and Southern Cascades spread out beyond the rim. The route climbs through subalpine forest—mountain hemlock and Shasta red fir lower down, giving way to whitebark pine and subalpine fir. In summer and early fall, expect wildflower color from lupine, paintbrush, arnica, cream bush, Shasta knotweed, snakeroot, and rabbitbrush. Wildlife shows up too: listen for pikas, watch marmots sun on rocks, and keep an eye out for deer and mountain juncos.

Trail Experience

After the paved start, the trail turns to dirt and gets to work. Most of the ascent is steady, shaded at first, then emerges into meadows and open slopes with expanding lake views. The summit area is surprisingly broad and comfortable—perfect for a snack and a slow 360-degree look before heading down. Upper sections are exposed and often windy.

Difficulty and Conditions

Expect a moderate-to-difficult workout: short, but sustained and sometimes steep. Snow patches can linger near the top well into July or even August, which can add slick, sidehill steps. In winter, this route is typically snow-covered and generally inaccessible to casual hikers; experienced folks sometimes tackle it as a snowshoe in good weather.

Best Time to Hike

Late June through early October is your sweet spot, when facilities are open and most snow is gone. Start early for cooler temps and some solitude before the lodge crowds wake up. Sunset is excellent here—the caldera rim lights up beautifully—but plan your timing so you’re comfortable descending before dark (bring a headlamp if you’ll cut it close).

Practical Notes

There’s no dedicated trailhead parking; use the Rim Village or lodge lots and walk to the signed start behind the lodge. Bring layers (wind is common at the top), sun protection, and plenty of water. This is a hiker-only trail, and pets aren’t allowed on it.