We were in Oregon on vacation. The previous day, we did hiked to the top of 5 peaks around Crater Lake. Today we were heading back to home, so we only had time for a quick hike. For that hike, we picked Mount Scott.

Mount Scott has over 2000 feet of prominence and the highest point in Crater Lake National Park. It has a very nice trail to the top and is very popular... we passed 60 people going up!

For weeks I had checked on the status of the Mount Scott trail and was told it was closed. However, when we arrived the morning of the hike, there were dozens of vehicles at the trailhead and no closure signs. Other than a snowdrift during the first 1/4 of a mile, the trail was dry!

The trail led through timber, keeping a nice grade. Once on the south face of the peak, it started switchbacking slowly towards the summit. As the elevation got higher, the trees got fewer.

The trail finally gained the summit ridge, where the views of Crater Lake were stunning! Soon after we were standing on top with 20 of new friends admiring the views of Crater Lake, Mount McLoughlin, Mount Thielsen, and Mount Bailey.

It took just under an hour to get to the top and right at 2 hours roundtrip. Great hike if you are in the Crater Lake area!

The Mount Scott trailhead is easily located on the eastern side of Crater Lake directly off of the Crater Lake Rim Road. There is only parking for about 20 cars and the trail is quite popular, so start early or late.

The Mount Scott trail departs the Crater Lake Rim road and is well signed as it leads you to the top of the peak. See the aerial photograph below for the route.