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Riding the rim of Crater Lake

Part of the original rim road around Crater Lake is now a hiking trail, on right, leading to the Watchman Fire Lookout.

“It is doubtful if any view existing in the world today is as impressive and at the same time as beautiful as the view of Crater Lake from the rim.”July 24, 2011

By BILL MILLER  for the Mail Tribune

It’s a sentiment expressed by millions of people for more than 100 years, but these were the words of Major Jay J. Morrow, of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

 The most prominent remnants of the old Rim Road in Crater Lake National Park are found at the base of The Watchman. The first part of the boulder-strewn trail up to the old museum and fire lookout was once the Rim Road. To the north of the large parking area is a trail that leads up to another portion of the old road and curves its way around Hillman Peak.

From Rim Village in the park, drive north about four miles on West Rim Drive to the viewpoint between Hillman and The Watchman. Hike the old road or simply take photos.

Beginning in the summer of 1910, Morrow had led a survey party of 26 men, charged with locating routes and providing estimates for future road construction in Crater Lake National Park.

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