Dutton Creek Trail

The Dutton Creek Trail is a little hiked trail that serves primarily as a connector between the Rim Village and the PCT (and Mazama Village).

The hike begins from just below Rim Village on Rim Drive. You’ll descend steadily as you dive into the forest and escape the crowds of above.

The trail continues its descent, and you’ll soon cross the namesake Dutton Creek. It is named after Captain Clarence E. Dutton who was head of the USGS group that, in 1886, took soundings to measure the depth of Crater Lake. Interestingly, this trail was also once an old wagon trail that early visitors used to reach the Crater Lake Rim.

As you continue the trail eases but still descends. The forest opens up in areas, and soon you’ll reach the junction with the PCT.

This is the end of the Dutton Creek Trail. You can return the way you came, or, head south on the PCT to reach Mazama Village.