Paulina Peak via Crater Rim Trail 3957(edit)

Overview

This is an out and back trail to Paulina Peak in Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Although the first 2 miles from the lake are uphill, it is a relatively gentle climb. You can either walk along the road (and breathe in the dust from the passing cars) or find the trail that winds along the road, which can sometimes be difficult to find. Beware of the last 2 miles, though! They are incredibly steep, but the views back down to the lake are terrific. Sadly, the wilderness experience is marred when you reach the top because there is a road that reaches the top from the backside, and you will be joined by buses and vans full of tourists. Consider the longer route back down that winds around the other side of the mountain and eventually returns you to the lake through the Big Obsidian Flow, which is magnificent. The walk back to parking lot is along the lake and travels though several campgrounds which are generally quite crowded all summer long.