Cleetwood Cove Trail, Crater Lake National Park

Probably THE best trail in the park. It’s a steep, dusty, and exposed hike back to the parking lot, though. Bring extra water, sunscreen, and sun protection. Hiking poles might be useful if you’re prone to tripping. But the crystal blue waters at the bottom is well worth the short suffer fest!

Nice little hike, but very steep to get back. Gets to be very crowded as it's the only access to the lake. You can go swimming in crystal clear but cold waters of the lake. You will have to navigate giant boulders and rocks all over to get into water. Bring your swimming shoes! Fishing is also allowed with no limit and no license required, its full of trout and salmon.

This is a beautiful and relatively short hike. We took a 3 and 5 year old and they did just fine (with a little fruit roll up motivation.) Amazing views of the beautiful water and lake. Well-maintained pit toilets at the top. Several benches along the way. Must-do hike for visiting Crater Lake.

Worth it to get down to the water, especially if you want to swim or fish. Completely different vantage point than asking the rim with some cool rock formations. Just know the way back up is steep but not too long. Pit toilets in parking lot and at the bottom of the trail.

BEAUTIFUL and worth the hike! Highlight of our trip so far! Also there was cliff jumping at the end of the trail. ONLY downside was the hike back up. I give it a 6/10 difficulty (especially after swimming for 2 hours).