PCT Day 104: Crater Lake & Mt Thielsen

Daily Miles: 26.1, Total Miles: 1855.3

Didn’t rain overnight but the condensation was very heavy. I packed up my wet gear and hiked the five miles to Crater Lake’s Rim Village. Found a scenic spot on the edge of the rim, about 900 ft above the lake, and spread the tent and rain fly out to dry. The precious day’s rain had knocked the smoke down but it was still partly cloudy.

I took several pics of this gem of a lake and went to the cafe for a double espresso and peanut butter sandwich.

I’ve been to Crater Lake several times and it never fails to impress. The deepest lake in the USA – 1,932 feet deep.

The trail headed around the west rim with excellent views of the lake and Wizard Island far below.

The trail left the lake and crossed Highway 138 and the Rim Drive. I later ran into Tumbleweed who had just set up camp. He just picked up a guitar in Ashland and was strumming away. After a chat, I moved on, entering Mt Thielsen Wilderness and started the climb.

I found a flat spot just below the summit and set up camp. No rain for me today, but obviously this area got heavy rain earlier today.