Crater Lake Trail

Overview: The Crater Lake Trail travels through the Elk Park Recommended Wilderness that is included in WSCC’s Community Conservation Proposal and is being considered in the GMUG Forest Planning process. It is 21,000 acres that provide dependable water supply for farms, ranches, and communities in the North Fork Valley. Aspens, conifers, elk, deer, moose, eagles, owls, solitude and backcountry hiking and hunting opportunities make this an ideal addition to the wilderness system.

Trail Description: From the trailhead,  Crater Lake trail follows Cow Creek through a large open area known as Elk Park for about 2.5 miles.  Then cross Cow Creek,  and follow a tributary of Cow Creek until you reach Crater Lake. There could be some boggy areas with a few small creek crossings, and mosquitos can be thick at times (especially near Crater Lake).

Where: Overland Reservoir TH, Crater Lake Trail

Difficulty: Moderate due to possible small creek crossings.  Starting elevation is at 9,900 feet climbing up to the highest possible elevation of 10,100 feet. 

What to bring: Good boots, lots of water, sunscreen, extra layers, hiking pools, snacks, and lunch.

How to get to the trailhead: Drive up Stevens Gulch Road, which becomes Forest Road 701 – then take the Overland Reservoir Road to the trailhead just north of the Overland Reservoir.