What to Consider
Trail Description
Cleetwood Cove Trail is a steep and strenuous hike. In 1.1 miles (1.7 km) the trail drops 700 feet (213 meters) in elevation through a series of long switchbacks. The trail surface is crushed pumice, which is similar to fine sand, and when it is dry, the pumice is loose and slippery under foot. The trail is only partially shaded. There are a few benches that you are strongly encouraged to use while taking in the views. The trail ends at the boulder-strewn lakeshore without shade and no beach. Vault toilets are located in the trailhead parking lot and at the lakeshore.
Staying on the trail protects the surrounding fragile vegetation, and helps to maintain the trail's integrity.
Going off trail can dislodge rocks and cause loose soil to tumble onto other visitors, resulting in injuries.
Your Physical Health
How are your knees and ankles? Do you have breathing difficulties? Have you experienced any heart conditions? Are you acclimated to the high elevation? Did you eat and are you drinking water? Overall good cardiovascular, heart, and physical fitness are recommended to hike the 2.2 miles round trip. It is not a recommended trail for people with mobility or health concerns.
The majority of search and rescue operations in Crater Lake National Park stem from visitors being unable to ascend this trail once they have hiked down to the lakeshore.
Ok, So You Made It Down theTrail
Walking up the trail is comparable to climbing 65 flights of stairs. Given the steepness, also consider the elevation, air temperature, air born trail-dust, and smoke if there are local wildfires. All of these can adversely affect your ability to ascend Cleetwood Cove Trail. It is best to make frequent rest stops, drink water, eat a snack, and enjoy the views.
You are strongly encouraged to know and accept your fitness level and physical limitations.
Understand that walking down the trail is only half of the experience.
Swimming and Wading
Swimming and wading in the lake, especially on a hot summer day, can be refreshing and even a bit chilling. During summer the average surface temperature of the lake is 57degrees (14 degrees Celsius). Only bathing suits and basic clothing may be worn in the water. Please read the section below regarding of protection of the lake and what
not to bring. Have warm, dry clothing available to immediately put on after being in the lake.
Swimming is only allowed within 100 yards of Cleetwood Cove and within 100 yards of Wizard Island, provided that swimmers remain at least 50 feet away from any boat, boat dock or buoy.
For information about fishing in Crater Lake visit the
fishing webpage.
What to Bring
Regardless of how long you anticipate staying lakeside, or what your reason is for hiking down the trail, bring these items with you:
- water or any non-caffeinated drinks
- your favorite energy snack
- sturdy shoes not flip flops or sandals
- walking sticks or trekking poles are supportive to knees and back
- warm, dry clothes to wear after being in the water
- sunscreen and/or sun protective clothing and a hat
Wheeled devices for transporting people or equipment are prohibited on Cleetwood Cove Trail.
What Not To Bring
To protect the clarity of the lake and decrease the possibility of introducing invasive species these items are not allowed in the lake:
- scuba and snorkeling gear
- wet suits, masks, goggles, fins,
- inner tubes or any towable devices
- kayaks, canoes, and any motorized or non-motorized boats
- inflatable rafts, flotation devices
- personal life jackets or vests
- waders
Smoking and vaping are prohibited on Cleetwood Cove Trail, the boats, Cleetwood boat dock and docking facilities including Wizard Island boat dock and boathouse facilities.
