Crater Lake Trail
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Crater Lake Trail
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The Crater Lake Trail is a fantastic long-distance hiking route in Colorado that will take you uphill through the woodland landscape to reach a charming lake. While out hiking the trail, you will make your way through a vast forest to the southwest, climbing uphill and enjoying intermittent views of the Surrounding San Juan Mountains, before arriving at the shores of Crater Lake beneath the looming summit of Twilight Peak. This is a great hike to turn into a multi-day backpacking adventure with an overnight stay at Crater Lake.
Getting there
The starting point for the Crater Lake Trail can be found at the Andrews Lake Trailhead off Forest Service Road 590.
About
| Backcountry Campground | Crater Lake |
| When to do | May-October |
| Pets allowed | Yes |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Crater Lake Trail
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Crater Lake Trail Description
If you enjoy taking long walks through picturesque woodland landscapes or camping out by a secluded lake with mountain views, then you will be sure to enjoy the Crater Lake Trail in the breathtaking San Juan Mountains of Colorado.
Setting out from the trailhead at Andrews Lake, you will head to the south and begin climbing uphill through the tree cover, eventually passing through a series of meadows as the trail turns to the southwest. Throughout the course of the hike, you will largely pass through heavily forested areas, although you will be able to enjoy some nice views of nearby mountains through the tree cover.
After passing through a seemingly endless forest, the trail will flatten out a bit and you will arrive at the shores of Crater Lake, where you will have some nice views of Twilight Peak to the southwest. After taking in the views, you can either set up camp or head back along the same route for the return journey.
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