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EasyDirt

Crater Lake Trail

Silverton, Colorado · San Juan County · US Forest Service · FR 623

Crater Lake Trail is a easy hiking trail near Silverton in San Juan County, Colorado.. The surface is dirt. Managed by US Forest Service. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

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37.70118, -107.71682
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at Crater Lake Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High55°F
Avg Low36°F
Peak Rain Chance9%
Humidity62%
UV (avg)7
Today
☁️
Overcast
49°/34°
💧 1%🌬 16mph
↑ 7:06 AM ↓ 6:53 PM
Fri
⛅
Partly Cloudy
52°/35°
🌬 7mph
↑ 7:07 AM ↓ 6:52 PM
Sat
☁️
Overcast
56°/38°
🌬 12mph
↑ 7:08 AM ↓ 6:50 PM
Sun
🌦
Rain Showers
61°/37°
💧 9%🌬 6mph
↑ 7:09 AM ↓ 6:49 PM
Mon
🌦
Drizzle
58°/35°
💧 3%🌬 8mph
↑ 7:10 AM ↓ 6:47 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Crater Lake Trail

Crater Lake Trail is a easy hiking trail near Silverton in San Juan County, Colorado.. The surface is dirt. Managed by US Forest Service. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 16 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 7)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Colorado

Trail conditions in Colorado change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Crater Lake Trail?

Crater Lake Trail is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Are dogs allowed on Crater Lake Trail?

Yes — dogs are allowed on Crater Lake Trail. Always pack out waste and follow local rules.

Are horses allowed on Crater Lake Trail?

Yes — horseback riding is permitted.

What is the trail surface on Crater Lake Trail?

The surface is dirt. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike Crater Lake Trail?

Colorado has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

Who manages Crater Lake Trail?

Crater Lake Trail is managed by US Forest Service. Check the operator’s website for current permits, fees, and restrictions.