Hikes/United States/Oregon/Crater Lake National Park

Difficulty

Very Easy

Elevation

42 m

Distance

3.2 km

Duration

0.5-1h

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Plaikni Falls Trail

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Plaikni Falls Trail is a pleasant, easy hike in Crater Lake National Park that leads you to a scenic green-flanked waterfall on the southeast corner of the lake. This hike is definitely family-friendly and it won’t take long to complete, making it an easy addition to your other plans at the lake. Expect moderate traffic and a well-maintained path.

Route Description for Plaikni Falls Trail

Plaikni Falls Trail is a lovely quick detour that shows off a point of interest away from the crater’s edge in Crater Lake National Park. The falls are very pretty, and the trail to them is well maintained, easy to follow, and easy enough for all skill levels. This is definitely a worthwhile detour for visitors and a good one to add to your hiking list in the park!

The hike begins off the side of the road in the parking area. It’s a very easy trek over a flat plain towards the ridge. You’ll follow the base of the ridge to your right to where the trail climbs. This point lets you know that you’re almost done, and the modest elevation gain doesn’t last very long at all.

Once you reach the falls, take a moment to enjoy the view. From here, it’s just back the same way you came up.

Getting to the Plaikni Falls Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for Plaikni Falls Trail is on an access road off E Rim Drive.

Route Information

Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
March to October
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back