Near Crater Lake and North Twilight
This is your reward after making your way through the first stretch of forest.
Near Crater Lake and North Twilight
As the temperatures drop, a winter wonderland greets you at the trailhead for the Crater Lake Trail #623.
Near Crater Lake and North Twilight
Andrew's Lake at sunrise
Near Crater Lake and North Twilight
Needles from Twighlight peak meadow
Near Crater Lake and North Twilight
Looking towards the southwest towards Spud Hill in the distance.

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Driving Directions
Classic Hike Route

Crater Lake and North Twilight

4.8 (13 Ratings)
Hike to a beautiful mountain lake and throw a peak in while you're there.
13.6
mi
Distance
3,777
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Regional Classic
A must do route for the area handpicked by local experts.
Fall ColorsLakeRiver/CreekSpringViewsWildflowersWildlife
Access Issues
During the winter, the road is not plowed to Andrews Lake, only along 550. Navigation can also be an issue during winter as not many people attempt this route except to maybe ski off one of the Twilights.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
13.62mi
Distance
3,777ft
Elevation Gain
3,777ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
13,068ft
High Point
10,747ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
This hike begins at Andrews Lake just south of Molas Pass on the Crater Lake Trail #623. This whole trail is highly used to Crater Lake, so there is no doubt what trail you should be on. The trail to Crater Lake is just under 5.5 miles, but it can feel long. Take several switchbacks and gain some elevation before you make it to the first meadow. You'll seem to repeat yourself as you climb a "step", go into a meadow, and go back into the forest. Hike a little further and come to the first pond below Crater Lake. Continue just a little further, and you'll arrive at beautiful Crater Lake. If you have arrived at Crater Lake and decide that wasn't enough... good! There are quite a few social trails and campsite trails to explore, and if you just stick to the lake for a quarter of a mile, you can then start making your way up the slope. As you look up towards North Twilight, you should be looking at its north face. Make your way toward hiker's right of the north face where you'll see a faint trail. The trail will take you along the ridge and then out onto the face. Again, this is a very steep trail so take the path of least resistance. The path marked on this route is only my interpretation of what the easiest route up is.When you top out on the face, scramble/hike the ridge to the top of North Twilight for yet more amazing views of the San Juans. Make your way back along the same route and back to Andrews Lake to complete the hike.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
aaron moore