Hike Up Mt. Scott at Dawn

Mt. Scott is part of the Cascade Mountain Range and the highest point in Crater Lake NP. The peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the park and its surrounding area. Seeing the sun rise over Crater Lake is well worth getting up early.

From the Steel Visitor Center (Park HQ) follow the East Rim Drive road along the southeast rim of the lake about 13 miles to the parking area on the southeast side of the road. The trailhead is located at the southern end of the parking area and is well marked. Restrooms are located to the north of the parking area. There are no water stations so make sure you bring enough water.

The hike starts off flat for about a quarter mile as it passes through a meadow northwest of the mountain. The rest of the hike is a steep, but steady, ascent to the top. Depending on the phase of the moon a large portion of the hike can be partially illuminated. You should still make use of a headlamp or flashlight since loose rocks and roots can become trip hazards. Patches of snow can be present near the summit year round so be aware of where you are walking. Follow the trail 2.25 miles up to the summit and arrive at the fire lookout station. Take a look around and marvel as the sun rises over the deepest lake in the US. The sun will rise behind you if you are facing Crater Lake, providing a great opportunity to capture the lake as the first rays of light illuminate it.

Descend the same way you came up and experience a different view than what you saw on the way up. Give yourself about 1.5-2 hours to reach the summit and about 30-45 minutes to drive from the Park's HQ.