Hiking at Crater Lake National Park is one of the most memorable ways to experience the deep blue water and volcanic landscapes of southern Oregon. From rim-top strolls with sweeping views to quieter forest paths and waterfall walks, the park offers trails for a wide range of hikers.

Conditions at this high-elevation park can change quickly, and several high-profile trail projects and closures will shape the visitor experience over the next few seasons, so planning and safety awareness are essential.

Planning Your Crater Lake Hike

Before choosing a trail at Crater Lake, it is vital to understand the park’s elevation, weather patterns, and current conditions. Nearly all hikes begin above 4,000 feet, many near 7,000 feet, which affects both fitness demands and how long snow lingers in the high country.

In addition, the National Park Service regularly posts seasonal closures, construction impacts, and safety alerts that can influence which routes are available on any given day.

Summer and early fall are the most popular hiking seasons, when Rim Drive is usually open and most snow has melted from higher trails. Even then, lingering snowfields, wildfire smoke, or thunderstorms can affect visibility and trail safety. In spring and early summer, trails may still be snow-covered and unmarked, while winter transforms most routes into ski and snowshoe terrain rather than hiking paths.

Given the park’s dynamic conditions, anyone headed for Crater Lake’s trails should build flexibility into their itinerary, confirm access before driving long distances to particular trailheads, and always have a backup plan in case of closures or sudden weather changes.

Checking Current Conditions and Alerts

The most reliable way to know which trails are open and what hazards to expect is to check the National Park Service’s Crater Lake current conditions and hiking pages just before your trip and again on the day you hike. Park staff update trail status, road closures, construction impacts, and weather-related advisories throughout the main season.

Because conditions can change quickly, do not rely solely on guidebooks, older blog posts, or social media recommendations. A trail that was dry and open in late August one year may still be partly snow-covered or temporarily closed for repair in early August another year. Once you arrive, confirm information with rangers at visitor centers or the entrance station and check information boards at trailheads.

Understanding Elevation, Weather, and Seasonality

Crater Lake’s rim sits around 7,000 to 8,000 feet, which means even experienced hikers can feel the effects of altitude in the form of quicker fatigue, shortness of breath, and slower recovery times. Many visitors arrive from low elevation and underestimate how demanding a “moderate” or “short” trail can feel at this height.

Snow typically blankets higher trails from roughly late fall into early summer, with some routes still carrying patchy snow well into June or even early July in heavier snow years.

In winter and spring, summer hiking trails are not marked; they are essentially cross-country snow routes that require winter travel skills and appropriate equipment, not standard hiking gear.

Summer days can be pleasantly warm, but the sun at altitude is intense, and temperatures drop quickly in the evening. Thunderstorms, especially from July through September, bring lightning, sudden winds, and heavy rain or small hail. Planning hikes for earlier in the day reduces the chances of being exposed on open ridges or viewpoints when storms roll through.

Trail Difficulty and Choosing the Right Route

Crater Lake offers everything from easy, mostly level walks to steep summit climbs and lengthy backcountry routes. Matching a hike to your group’s fitness, experience, and available time is crucial in this high-altitude environment.

Think beyond mileage. A two-mile trail at 7,500 feet with sustained elevation gain and rocky footing can feel far more challenging than a longer but gentler forest walk at low elevation.

Families with young children and visitors new to mountain hiking may find shorter viewpoint trails, waterfall walks, and modest rim segments more enjoyable than strenuous summit routes.

When in doubt, start with an easier outing on your first day to gauge how your body responds to the altitude, then build up to more ambitious hikes later in your visit.

Best Rim and Viewpoint Hikes

The hiking routes that trace or reach Crater Lake’s rim are the park’s signature experiences.

These trails showcase dramatic viewpoints into the caldera, shifting perspectives on Wizard Island, and broad panoramas of the surrounding Cascades. Most are relatively short but feel vigorous because of elevation and grade.

Many visitors can build an entire day around a sequence of rim walks interspersed with roadside overlooks, short drives, and breaks at the lodge or picnic areas. For photography and quieter conditions, early morning and later afternoon are especially rewarding.

Garfield Peak Trail

Garfield Peak is one of the park’s classic rim hikes, starting near Crater Lake Lodge and climbing steadily to a lofty viewpoint over the caldera. The route is typically about 3.4 miles round-trip with considerable elevation gain, often described as moderately strenuous because of the grade and altitude.

The trail traverses open slopes and rocky outcrops with near-constant views of the lake, making it popular for sunrise and sunset excursions in good weather. On clear days, hikers can see much of the rim, Wizard Island, and distant peaks beyond the park boundary.

Because sections are exposed, this trail can be windy and quite hot in midday sun, and it is not a good choice during thunderstorms or when snow or ice linger on the route.

Watchman Peak Trail

The Watchman Peak Trail offers one of the finest vista points for relatively modest effort. Starting from a trailhead along West Rim Drive, the route climbs less than a mile to an old fire lookout perched above the lake. Most hikers describe it as a short, moderately steep walk with big rewards at the top.

The summit viewpoint delivers a commanding look at Wizard Island, much of the lake’s western shoreline, and the curvature of the caldera walls.

This makes Watchman especially popular with photographers capturing late-day light on the water. Because the trail is short, it can be busy in peak season, and parking at the trailhead may be limited during midday; visiting early or later in the afternoon increases your chances of finding a space.

Discovery Point and Rim Segment Walks

For hikers seeking superb views without a sustained climb, the rim-side walk from Crater Lake Lodge to Discovery Point and beyond offers a gentler introduction to the park’s scenery. The path generally undulates along the rim, with brief ups and downs rather than a single long ascent.

This stretch is ideal for families, casual hikers, and anyone acclimating to the altitude.

It also integrates easily with roadside stops, since you can walk out-and-back for as long or short as you wish. In several places, the path comes quite close to steep drop-offs, so care is required near the edge, particularly with children or on icy or snowy surfaces.

Forest, Meadow, and Waterfall Trails Beyond the Rim

While Crater Lake’s rim views deserve their fame, some of the park’s most rewarding hikes wander through forests, meadows, and canyonlands beyond the immediate lake edge.

These routes often provide shade, more solitude, and a glimpse into the park’s ecology, including wildflowers, streams, and evidence of past eruptions.

Many of these trails begin at lower elevations than the lake’s rim, which can mean earlier snowmelt and slightly warmer conditions. They can be excellent options during shoulder seasons or on days when strong winds or storms make rim hiking less appealing.

Plaikni Falls Trail

The Plaikni Falls Trail has quickly become one of Crater Lake’s most beloved family-friendly hikes. Located off East Rim Drive, it leads to a graceful waterfall tucked into a lush basin below the south side of Mount Scott. The path is roughly 2 miles round-trip and comparatively gentle, gaining only modest elevation.

The route passes through old-growth fir and hemlock forest, with wildflowers in season and a cooler, more humid microclimate than the sunbaked rim.

Near the end of the trail, the sound of rushing water builds before the falls come into view, dropping over a cliff carved by glacial ice and layered with volcanic ash from the ancient Mount Mazama eruption.

Because of its easy grade and scenery, Plaikni Falls is a strong choice for visitors of varied abilities, especially on warm summer afternoons when a shaded walk is welcome.

Annie Creek Canyon Trail

Annie Creek Trail explores a canyon landscape carved through layers of pumice and ash. Beginning near Mazama Village at the park’s south entrance, it descends from forest into a stream valley lined with steep, eroded walls and meadows rich in summertime wildflowers.

The loop is typically rated moderate. The initial descent and final climb can feel demanding for some visitors, but much of the route follows the relatively level stream corridor.

Wildlife sightings, including birds and small mammals, are common, and the trail offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate the park’s volcanic geology from ground level.

Because Annie Creek lies below the rim, the trail may be accessible earlier in the season than some high-elevation routes, though melting snow and spring runoff can make parts of the path muddy or slippery. As always, check for any closures or washouts before setting out.

Castle Crest Wildflower Garden Trail

Close to park headquarters, the Castle Crest Wildflower Garden is a short but rewarding loop that showcases a remarkable concentration of native blooms in midsummer. A network of paths winds through meadows and along small streams, creating a natural botanical garden framed by forest and low ridges.

This is one of the easiest walks in the park and an excellent choice for those with limited time or mobility, as well as anyone interested in plant life. Interpretive signs often explain the relationship between the area’s hydrology, volcanic soils, and floral diversity, helping visitors see beyond the dramatic lake views to the park’s more subtle natural features.

Summits and Longer Day Hikes

For hikers with solid mountain experience and adequate fitness, Crater Lake offers several longer and more strenuous day hikes that climb to summits or traverse more remote terrain.

These routes often provide broad, 360-degree views that extend well beyond the caldera, revealing the larger Cascades landscape and the vast forests and plateaus that surround the park.

Because these trails tend to be higher and more exposed, they are also more sensitive to weather, snow conditions, and wildfire smoke. Hikers should approach them with respect, carrying sufficient water, layers, sun protection, and navigation tools.

Mount Scott Trail

Mount Scott is the highest point in Crater Lake National Park, and its summit trail is a favorite among hikers seeking a panoramic perspective. The route climbs steadily through forest and open slopes to a lookout near the top, with expanding vistas of the lake, the caldera rim, and distant peaks.

The hike is moderate to strenuous, both for its elevation gain and for the thinner air at the upper reaches. In exchange, the summit offers one of the most comprehensive views in the park, including perspectives that are not possible from rim pullouts alone.

Because Mount Scott’s trailhead sits along East Rim Drive, access depends on the seasonal opening of that road. Early snow or lingering drifts can delay the start of the hiking season here, and thunderstorms often build quickly on summer afternoons. Starting early is the best strategy for comfort and safety.

Union Peak via the Pacific Crest Trail

Union Peak, on the park’s southern side, delivers a wilder and more varied hiking experience than many rim trails. The route follows a segment of the Pacific Crest Trail through forest and pumice meadows before turning toward the peak itself, where it finishes with a steep, rocky climb to the summit.

This is one of the longer maintained hikes in the park and is generally considered strenuous, especially in the final approach, which includes loose rock and exposure. The summit rewards effort with sweeping views, and the approach through different habitat zones makes the hike as interesting for its ecology as for its vistas.

Because of its length and remoteness relative to the main rim area, Union Peak is best reserved for strong hikers who are comfortable with route-finding, variable weather, and self-reliance in the backcountry. Starting early, carrying extra water, and informing someone of your plans are all prudent steps.

Pacific Crest Trail Segments

The Pacific Crest Trail runs for roughly 33 miles through Crater Lake National Park, mostly through forests and higher meadows rather than along the immediate rim. While through-hikers travel the whole distance, many visitors sample shorter out-and-back sections from access points along Highway 62 or the north entrance road.

These segments offer a quieter, more contemplative experience compared with the often-busy rim. Hikers encounter diverse terrain, including burn scars, regrowing forest, open pumice flats, and occasional glimpses toward the caldera. Because the PCT tends to be at high elevation, snow can linger into early summer, and water sources may be limited later in the season, so planning is essential.

Trail Closures and Changing Access to the Lake

One of the most important developments for hikers at Crater Lake is the multi-year rehabilitation of Cleetwood Cove Trail, the only legal foot access to the lake shore.

Visitors planning hikes in 2026 and beyond need to be aware that this iconic route will be closed for several seasons while major repairs and safety improvements are carried out.

Understanding how this closure affects hiking options can help you design a rewarding itinerary that focuses on rim views, forests, waterfalls, and alternative experiences rather than a descent to the lake itself.

Cleetwood Cove Trail: Status and What to Expect

Cleetwood Cove Trail descends about 700 feet in 1.1 miles to reach the lake, historically serving as the starting point for boat tours and the only spot where visitors could swim from shore. Over the years, heavy use, erosion, rockfall, and structural damage to retaining walls and marina facilities have created significant safety concerns.

The National Park Service has finalized plans to rehabilitate both the trail and the lakeshore marina area. Current timelines indicate that construction is expected to begin in early summer 2026 and continue for approximately three years, with the trail fully closed to the public during that period.

The closure is necessary to allow rock scaling, trail reconstruction, and infrastructure replacement in an area that is difficult to access and subject to rockfall hazards.

While Cleetwood is open through the 2025 main season under close monitoring and intermittent short-term closures if needed, visitors planning trips from 2026 through at least 2028 should assume that direct lake access on foot and standard boat tours will not be available. Check the park’s current conditions webpage shortly before your trip for the latest updates, as project timelines can shift.

How to Enjoy Crater Lake Without Lakeshore Access

Even without Cleetwood Cove, Crater Lake offers a wealth of hiking options and lake viewpoints. Many visitors never hike down to the water yet still leave feeling they have experienced the park fully. During the years of trail rehabilitation, the park encourages visitors to explore rim overlooks, forest trails, summits, and waterfalls.

You might design a day around a combination like this:

  • Start with a sunrise or early-morning walk along the rim near Crater Lake Lodge.
  • Drive sections of Rim Drive, stopping for short walks to viewpoints and trailheads.
  • Hike a mid-morning summit such as Garfield Peak or Watchman, weather permitting.
  • Spend the afternoon on a shaded forest or waterfall trail such as Plaikni Falls or Annie Creek.
  • Return to a rim overlook for evening light on the lake.

By shifting your focus from the lakeshore to the broader landscape, you can still enjoy challenging hikes, photography, wildlife viewing, and an in-depth look at the volcanic and ecological story of the park.

Essential Safety Tips for Hiking at Crater Lake

Crater Lake’s beauty can mask real hazards, from snow cornices and steep drop-offs to cold water, altitude effects, and changing weather. The National Park Service emphasizes that there are no lifeguards at the lake, that many trails are unmarked in snow season, and that rescues can be difficult and delayed in remote terrain.

By preparing carefully and understanding the park’s specific risks, you can dramatically reduce the chance of accidents or emergencies on the trail.

Staying on Trails and Away from Cornices

One of the most serious dangers around the rim in winter and spring is the presence of snow cornices: overhanging ledges of snow that extend beyond the solid ground beneath. These cornices can collapse without warning if a person walks too close to the edge, resulting in a long and often fatal fall into the caldera.

Even in summer, the official rim paths and overlooks are designed to keep visitors a safe distance from unstable edges and loose rock.

Always stay on designated trails and behind barriers, supervise children closely, and resist the temptation to cross fences or stone walls for a better photograph. In snow season, it is wise to stay well back from the rim’s apparent edge, as it is difficult to tell where solid ground ends and unsupported snow begins.

Weather, Lightning, and Seasonal Hazards

Lightning is a recurring hazard at Crater Lake during summer thunderstorms. Because many trails are exposed along ridges or open slopes, hikers can become vulnerable if storms move in quickly. The park advises visitors to check daily forecasts, plan hikes for earlier in the day, and leave exposed ridgetops at the first sign of approaching storms.

Snow and ice are another persistent concern outside the core summer window. Trails that look dry at trailheads may still hold icy patches in shaded corners or higher switchbacks, increasing the risk of slips and falls. In winter, avalanches, roof-load slides near buildings, tree wells, and terrain traps such as gullies and creek beds pose serious risks for those traveling on skis or snowshoes.

Because the park has no formal avalanche forecasting system, anyone venturing into steep, snow-covered backcountry terrain must be able to evaluate snow stability, recognize hazardous slopes, and carry appropriate rescue gear. Those without this experience should limit winter travel to well-described, low-angle routes recommended by park staff.

Hydration, Heat, and Cold

Despite its alpine setting, Crater Lake can be surprisingly hot in midsummer, and the combination of altitude, sun exposure, and steep climbs increases the risk of dehydration and heat-related illness. Hikers should carry more water than they think they will need, especially on strenuous trails like Garfield Peak, Mount Scott, or Union Peak, where there are no reliable water sources along the route.

Signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, headache, muscle cramps, and unusual fatigue. If you or a companion experiences these symptoms, stop in a shaded spot, drink fluids, and consider turning back. Do not press on to a summit or viewpoint if someone in your group is struggling.

At the same time, the lake’s water is cold, typically ranging from near-freezing to around the low 60s Fahrenheit near the surface, depending on the season. Anyone who enters the water does so at their own risk, and hypothermia can develop quickly, especially if a swimmer is tired from a hike or unable to warm up afterward. Even in summer, carry dry layers, and think carefully before jumping into cold water after a strenuous climb.

Cell coverage in Crater Lake National Park is limited and patchy, especially on more remote trails and in canyons. Hikers should not assume that they can call for help from anywhere or rely entirely on smartphone apps for maps and navigation.

Carry a paper map or downloaded offline map, know how to read it, and pay attention to landmarks and trail junctions.

Inform someone outside your group of your hiking plans, including route, expected start and finish times, and where you are parked. In the event of an emergency, remaining calm, staying together, and being able to describe your location clearly can make a significant difference.

Winter Travel: Snowshoeing and Skiing in Place of Hiking

In the park’s long winter season, which often runs from late fall into spring, traditional hiking is replaced by snowshoeing and skiing. Winter visitors should treat even short excursions with seriousness, as deep snow, hidden obstacles, and poor visibility can turn a casual outing into a hazardous situation.

Key winter safety practices include traveling with a partner, keeping one another in sight, staying clear of the bases of large trees to avoid tree wells, and avoiding gullies or creek beds that can act as terrain traps if a small avalanche occurs. Heavy snow can also slide abruptly from roofs, so standing under the eaves of buildings is discouraged.

Anyone new to winter backcountry travel should start with ranger-recommended routes, consider joining guided walks if available, and avoid steep slopes where avalanches may occur. Proper clothing, including waterproof layers and insulated boots, is essential.

Gear, Logistics, and Practical Tips

Having the right equipment and understanding basic logistics can greatly improve your hiking experience at Crater Lake. From footwear and clothing to parking and pet regulations, attention to detail will help you stay comfortable, safe, and within park rules.

Footwear and Clothing

Sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots with good traction are strongly recommended for most Crater Lake trails, even shorter rim walks. Loose volcanic gravel, rocky steps, and dusty switchbacks can be slippery, especially on descent. Sandals, thin-soled casual shoes, or smooth-bottomed sneakers increase the likelihood of slips and stubbed toes.

Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures. A typical summer hiking kit might include a moisture-wicking base layer, a light insulating layer for cooler morning and evening temperatures, and a wind- or rain-resistant outer shell.

A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are important, as UV exposure is more intense at altitude and bright lake reflections can be harsh on the eyes.

Hydration, Food, and Waste

Because many Crater Lake hikes lack natural water sources that are safe to drink untreated, plan to carry all the water you need. A common guideline is at least one liter per person for short, easy walks and two to three liters per person for longer or more strenuous hikes, especially in warm weather.

Carry energy-rich snacks such as nuts, dried fruit, or energy bars, and eat small amounts regularly to maintain your energy levels. Following Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, including food scraps, wrappers, and tissues. Properly disposing of waste protects wildlife and preserves the experience for other hikers.

Parking, Transportation, and Timing

Parking can be tight at popular trailheads and viewpoints during peak summer days, particularly along Rim Drive. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can make it easier to find a space and avoid the busiest hours on the most popular trails.

Road access to various parts of the park changes with the seasons, as snow, maintenance, or construction can temporarily close segments of Rim Drive or entrance roads. Check which entrances and road loops are open when you plan your trip and build extra time into your schedule for slow driving, photo stops, and unexpected delays.

Pets on Trails

Crater Lake has specific regulations regarding pets on trails to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. While dogs may be allowed on certain paved areas and some lower-elevation routes, they are not generally permitted on most summer hiking trails, especially those along the rim and in sensitive habitats.

Before bringing a pet, review the park’s current pet policy and consider whether your planned hikes are compatible with these rules. Leaving pets secured in hot vehicles while you hike is dangerous and strongly discouraged. In many cases, it may be better to arrange pet care outside the park if you plan to spend full days on trails where pets are prohibited.

Backcountry Permits and Overnight Trips

Some longer routes and overnight backpacking trips within Crater Lake’s boundaries require backcountry permits. These permits help the park manage camping impacts, monitor use, and ensure that visitors have the information they need about water availability, fire restrictions, and wildlife considerations.

If you are interested in an overnight hike, research the current permit system, including any quotas, reservation options, or seasonal restrictions. Contact the park in advance if you have questions, and always carry your permit with you when you are in the backcountry.

The Takeaway

Hiking at Crater Lake National Park offers an unparalleled chance to walk along the rim of a collapsed volcano, gaze into some of the clearest blue water on earth, and explore forests, meadows, and canyons shaped by fire and ice. From short strolls and waterfall walks to summit climbs and backcountry traverses, there are trails to match a wide range of interests and abilities.

Success on these hikes depends on thoughtful planning. Check current conditions, respect trail closures such as the upcoming multi-year rehabilitation of Cleetwood Cove Trail, and choose routes that fit your fitness and experience. Prepare for altitude, sun, changing weather, and limited cell coverage. Carry the right gear, move at a sensible pace, and be ready to turn back if conditions deteriorate.

Approached with preparation and respect, Crater Lake’s trails reward hikers with viewpoints and experiences that linger long after the trip ends. Whether you stand on a rim overlook at dawn, cool off near a hidden waterfall, or traverse a volcano’s flanks beneath shifting clouds, the park’s hiking routes invite you into a landscape where time, geology, and weather are always at work.

FAQ

Q1: When is the best time of year to hike at Crater Lake?
The most reliable hiking conditions are usually from mid-July through September, when Rim Drive is generally open and most higher-elevation trails are free of snow. Early summer and late fall can still be rewarding, but snow, ice, or partial road closures may limit access, and winter conditions turn most trails into routes for skis or snowshoes rather than standard hiking.

Q2: Will I be able to hike down to the lake on Cleetwood Cove Trail?
Cleetwood Cove Trail is expected to be open through the 2025 main season, though short-term closures are possible for safety or maintenance. A major rehabilitation project is scheduled to begin in early summer 2026, and the trail is expected to remain closed for several seasons during construction. If you plan to visit from 2026 onward, check the park’s current information, but be prepared for the possibility that lakeshore access will not be available.

Q3: Are there beginner-friendly hikes with good views of Crater Lake?
Yes. The rim walk between Crater Lake Lodge and Discovery Point offers excellent views with rolling rather than steep terrain, making it a good choice for newer hikers. Short walks to established viewpoints along Rim Drive, as well as easy routes like the Castle Crest Wildflower Garden, are also accessible options that still showcase the park’s scenery.

Q4: Do I need special gear for hiking at Crater Lake?
For summer and early fall hiking, sturdy closed-toe shoes with good traction, layered clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sun protection are the primary essentials, along with sufficient water and snacks. In spring and fall, traction devices for icy sections and warmer layers can be helpful. Winter travel requires specialized gear such as snowshoes or skis, insulated waterproof clothing, and knowledge of winter hazards.

Q5: How much water should I carry on Crater Lake hikes?
Because of the altitude, dry air, and lack of reliable water sources on many trails, it is wise to carry at least one liter of water per person for short, easy hikes and two to three liters per person for moderate or strenuous outings, especially in warm or sunny conditions. There are no safe, convenient places to refill on most trails, so plan to bring what you need from developed areas.

Q6: Is it safe to swim in Crater Lake after a hike?
Swimming is only allowed in designated areas near Cleetwood Cove and around Wizard Island when those sites are accessible, and there are no lifeguards anywhere in the park. The water is very cold, even in summer, and hypothermia is a real risk, particularly for tired hikers. Anyone who chooses to enter the water should be a strong swimmer, stay close to shore, and have dry, warm clothing ready for afterward.

Q7: Are dogs allowed on hiking trails at Crater Lake?
Pets are restricted on many of the park’s trails, especially along the rim and in sensitive natural areas. Dogs are typically allowed on certain paved paths and some specific lower-elevation routes but are not permitted on most summer hiking trails. Before bringing a dog, review the current pet regulations and make sure your planned activities are compatible with them.

Q8: What should I do if the weather changes suddenly while I am hiking?
If storms build, lightning approaches, or visibility drops, your safest option is usually to turn around and descend from exposed ridges or summits to lower, more sheltered terrain. Avoid standing near tall isolated trees or metal railings during lightning, and be prepared with rain gear and warm layers. In snowy or foggy conditions, pay close attention to your route so you can follow it back to the trailhead.

Q9: Do I need a backcountry permit for day hikes?
Backcountry permits are generally required for overnight trips and backcountry camping but not for standard day hikes on established trails. However, if you are planning a long route that might reasonably extend into evening hours or involve off-trail travel, it is smart to confirm requirements and recommendations with park staff before you set out.

Q10: How can I avoid crowds on Crater Lake trails?
To find quieter experiences, start early in the morning, consider hiking on weekdays rather than weekends, and look beyond the most famous routes. Forest and meadow trails such as Annie Creek, selected Pacific Crest Trail segments, and certain viewpoints along less busy stretches of Rim Drive often see fewer people than marquee hikes near the lodge or the most popular overlooks.