Mt. Thielsen was a volcano over a million years ago. Its 9,182-foot peak has been carved by glaciers, wind, and water to its current spiral shape. Called the "lightning rod of the Cascades", the rock on top of Mt. Thielsen has been changed into a new type of rock by the voltage from lightning strikes. A very challenging 4.9-mile trail (#1456) provides access to those unique rocks as well as some of the most breath-taking vistas of the area. (This trail is a ridge-lined rock scramble to the summit -- be prepared with lots of water, sturdy hiking boots, and patience.) The towering Mt. Thielsen is something of a point-of-reference for travelers to the area. While closest to the gorgeous Diamond Lake area, Mt. Thielsen is visible from the nearby Crater Lake National Park as well as the distant community of Chemult, OR.
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