Crater Lake Out-and-Back

Durango

Beautiful Scenic Hike to Crater Lake and Back

Hiking Moderate

Distance: 18 km
Ascent: 615 m
Descent: 616 m
Duration: 4-5 hrs

Low Point: 3.3 km
High Point: 3.6 km
Gradient: 6˚

This is a popular hiking route which is generally considered to be moderate. It's very remote, it features low exposure and is typically done between June and September. From a low point of 3.3 km to the maximum altitude of 3.6 km, the route covers 18 km, 615 vertical metres of ascent and 616 vertical metres of descent.

Description

Amazing scenery arriving at Crater Lake

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Low Exposure

The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.

Remoteness

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

Features

Similar routes nearby

1.6 km away

Sultan Mountain and Spencer Peak

Tag two 13ers that are easily-accessible from Molas Pass.

Severe Hiking

Distance: 12 km
Ascent: 1 km
Descent: 1 km

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Molas Pass Out-and-Back

A stunning alpine traverse hike.

Difficult Hiking

Distance: 17 km
Ascent: 447 m
Descent: 447 m

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Coal Creek Loop: Clockwise

A high-value alpine loop hike easily accessible from the Million Dollar Highway.

Moderate Hiking

Distance: 12 km
Ascent: 557 m
Descent: 559 m

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Pass Creek Trail: Out-and-Back

A popular conduit into the alpine.