Lightning Spring Trail

Lightning Spring Trail begins and ends at the crater edge in Crater Lake National Park, traveling west to its turnaround point where it meets the PCT. This route is often used to access the Lightning Spring Backcountry Campsite, which is a very pretty campsite. It’s rated as moderately difficult and is suitable for strong beginners and better.

Hikers who don’t want to or can’t complete the entire hike can turn around at any point–there isn’t really a viewpoint at the turnaround point, so you won’t miss too much by tailoring your distance.

From the trailhead on W Rim Drive, take the route heading roughly west. You’ll descend a short distance at first. The spur trail to the campsite breaks off to your left. You’ll weave back and forth across a descending slope, crossing the creek several times. The route roughly follows the creek downhill to the junction with the PCT. From here, turn back and retrace your steps.