Black Crater Views

We started early around 0630 to beat the heat and sun, not sure of shade options. It was a consistent trek up, but very doable. We were able to keep chatting the entire trail up. There was a beautiful hike through burned trees and then you gain elevation into a beautiful crater and get into alpine terrain. Beautiful pine and brush changing the season. It was just stunning. Views all the way up. The top was a lava rock field with beautiful views of the cascades. We could even see the tip of Mt, Hood!