Crater Lake Rim Run
Crater Lake, OR
A high-altitude rim run above the bluest lake in America — short season, huge views.
- When
- August 8, 2026
- Distances
- Rim Run (~6.7 mi) · Marathon
- Surface
- Mixed
- Course
- Out-and-back
- Elevation gain
- 900 ft
- Altitude
- 7,100 ft–7,900 ft
- Weather
- Cool
- Nearest airport
- LMT
- Suggested trip
- 3 nights
Weather
| Month | Avg high / low | Band |
|---|---|---|
| August | 42–68°F | Cool |
Historical averages for planning — not a forecast. Always check conditions before race week.
Route & course
Rim Run (~6.7 mi)
Out-and-back · Mixed- Elev gain
- 900 ft
- Elev loss
- 900 ft
- High point
- 7,900 ft
- Low point
- 7,100 ft
- Turnaround at the midpoint; the second half retraces the first
- Aid stations seen twice
Marathon
Loop · Mixed- Elev gain
- 3,800 ft
- Elev loss
- 3,800 ft
- High point
- 7,900 ft
- Low point
- 6,500 ft
- Start and finish in the same area
- Easier spectating and repeated aid access
Travel
- Base town
- Klamath Falls
- Nearest airport
- LMT · 80 min
- Rental car
- Recommended
- Rideshare
- Poor
- Lodging
- Scarce
- Facilities
- Remote
- Trip length
- 3 nights
- Travel complexity
- 7.5/10
Remote national-park setting at altitude; lodging inside the park is scarce, so plan early.
Most runners base in Klamath Falls or camp. Expect altitude and full sun on the rim.
Best for / avoid if
Best for
- Runners who want unforgettable alpine-lake scenery
- Those acclimated to altitude
- Photographers and view-chasers
Avoid if
- You are sensitive to altitude
- You need guaranteed mild weather
- You want shade (it is exposed)
Field Notes
- Field Notes: Crater Lake Rim Run
The bluest thing you'll ever run beside — just respect the altitude.
About this race
Run the rim road and trails above Crater Lake at 7,000+ ft. The payoff is constant: the bluest water you will ever see, ringed by volcanic cliffs. Thin air and a short season make this a special, weather-dependent event.
Last verified June 19, 2026. Race details can change — always confirm with the official race website.