Ranger-led treks at sunset to the top of Watchman Peak offer panoramic views from the decks of a fire lookout.

This hike description is an excerpt from my “I Heart Oregon’s Seven Wonders” guide book.

Distance: 1.6 miles (roundtrip)
Elevation Gain: 420 ft.
Difficulty: easy
Hike type: out and back
Open: mid-July – Sept.
Features: panoramic views, fire lookout

A prominent point on the west side of Crater Lake’s rim, Watchman Peak offers spectacular views from the decks of a fire lookout, including Wizard Island directly below, and of the Cascades to the west. Built in 1932, the fire lookout is still used by rangers. Sunset tours led by park rangers are usually available in the summer. Park at the Watchman Overlook viewpoint (on the north side of Watchman Peak), 4 miles north of Rim Village.