State: Oregon
Location: Crater Lake National Park
Length, Round Trip: 9.5 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 5800 feet
Maximum Elevation: 7000 feet
Elevation Change: 1200 feet
Best Season: June to October
Difficulty: More Difficult
Usage: Moderate
HecetaHead Lighthouse in Oregon
Trail Information
The Lightning Springs Trail heads to the west for a shade over 4.5 miles from Rim Drive to the Pacific Crest Trail. The trail descends over 1,200 feet along the Bybee Creek drainage. There is water available along the route. Dispersed camping areas can also be found on the route.
You will begin this hike by walking west from Rim Drive. The trail meanders for the first mile as it descends to Lightning Springs. Once reaching the spring, the trail veers to the north then turns west at the base of a steep ridge. The trail follows this wall before turning south to the creek. The trail follows the creek closely for the next half mile before turning slightly to the north. Eventually, the trail turns to the south, crosses the stream and leaves it leading west.
The next few miles of this hike are a steady descent through the headwaters of Bybee Creek. Before reaching the Pacific Crest Trail, the route switchbacks descending to the northern bank of Bybee Creek. The trail parallels the creek for a quarter mile before reaching Bybee Camp and the Pacific Crest Trail.
Directions
From Annie Spring Entrance:
Drive north into the park 4 miles to Park Headquarters. Turn left on to West Rim Drive and travel nearly 5 miles to a picnic area between Discovery Point and The Watchman. Park at this picnic area and cross Rim Drive to the trailhead.
