Newberry Crater Is Hikeable Now
While waiting for the snow to melt from the higher elevations of the Cascade Mountains, people looking for a Central Oregon hike with mountain views can consider Newberry Crater National Monument. Besides the well-known Paulina Falls, Obsidian Trail, the hike to Paulina Peak, and the various treks around both Paulina and East Lake, there is the relatively little known hike starting at the Cinder Hill campground at the end of the road by East Lake up to the Crater Rim and then to the Cinder Hill viewpoint. Although not the longest hike, there is close to 1000 feet elevation gain over two miles and then the relatively easy 3/4 mile hike along the Crater Rim trail to the view point. The hike from the campground to the rim is not difficult due to multiple switch backs and a gradual incline. The trail is well maintained and at the rim hikers may have to compete with people on mountain bikes to reach the view point.
On June 15, 2024, the weather was cool with the temperature in the thirties at 9 am. The hike to the rim had some light snow as well as older snow patches left over from winter to traverse. At the view point, although very beautiful with views of East Lake, Paulina Peak and Paulina Lake, the wind was blowing and the wind chill was well below freezing. Hikers didn't last long admiring the setting.
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Original blog can be read at Bend Premier Real Estate's blog page.
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