Minnehaha Creek Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views

This route is fairly secluded by National Park standards, and is shady and cool from the creek. This would be a recommended route for runners.

With just over 200 ft of elevation gain, the Minnehaha Creek Trail is a great jaunt if you're in this part of Crater Lake National Park. The closest access point for vehicles is the Hamaker Campground. From there, you'll have to take a short portion of the Upper Rogue River Trail to the northeast to access the Minnehaha Creek Trail.

Once you reach the trail, you're in for a cool and shaded journey. The trail will be generally rolling, but you'll subtly be gaining elevation as you move away from the trailhead. The trail follows the Minnehaha Creek, and the water provides a fun distraction for younger visitors. The creek feeds the surrounding flora, and you'll be working your way uphill in the shadow of giant fir and hemlocks.

As you near the end of the trail, you'll come across Soda Spring. This small spring is scenic, and makes for a good destination. You can continue on for about another 1/4 mile, or make the spring your turn around point.

Enjoy the subtle downhill as you retrace your steps back to the campground.

The creek provides a fun microcosm, and the Hemlock, Fir and Lodgepole pines have all grown to a larger-than-average scale.