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Discover Crater Lake - Oregon's Deep Blue Wonder

Explore Crater Lake National Park, Oregon's deepest lake and a mesmerizing caldera. Hike scenic trails, drive the iconic Rim Drive, and witness its unparalleled sapphire waters.

Plan My Trip Here

Crater Lake National Park, a sapphire jewel cradled within the ancient embrace of the Cascade Mountains, beckons with a profound, almost spiritual beauty. Born from the cataclysmic collapse of Mount Mazama nearly 7,700 years ago, this geological marvel is now filled with water so startlingly blue and deep, it feels otherworldly. Its sheer cliffs plunge into depths of 1,943 feet, making it the deepest lake in the United States and one of the purest on Earth.

Imagine the crisp mountain air, the towering evergreen forests, and the dramatic silhouette of Wizard Island rising majestically from the tranquil, reflective surface. Crater Lake is more than just a scenic vista; it’s a testament to the raw power of nature, inviting quiet contemplation and thrilling exploration. A visit here is a journey into a landscape shaped by fire and time, leaving an indelible mark on the soul.

Seasonal Weather Guide

Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.

Winter

Highs 20-30°F / Lows 10-20°F

Winter brings extreme snowfall, often accumulating to 40+ feet annually, transforming the park into a serene, snow-covered landscape. Expect sub-freezing temperatures and limited road access, ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Spring

Highs 30-50°F / Lows 20-30°F

Spring is a transition period with melting snow, variable weather, and limited access to many areas until late May or June. Temperatures are cool, and many facilities and roads, including Rim Drive, remain closed or partially open.

Summer

Highs 60-70°F / Lows 30-40°F

Summer offers the most pleasant weather with mild temperatures, clear skies, and full access to all park roads and activities, including boat tours. While rainfall is low, occasional afternoon thunderstorms can occur.

Fall

Highs 40-60°F / Lows 20-30°F

Fall brings cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and potential for early snowfall, especially later in the season. Enjoy crisp air and the possibility of golden larch trees before winter closures begin.

Born from Fire, Sustained by Purity

Crater Lake’s compelling narrative begins with Mount Mazama, a mighty stratovolcano whose violent eruption and subsequent collapse created the vast caldera we see today. This dramatic genesis story is etched into every cliff face and reflected in the lake’s unique characteristics. Over millennia, snowmelt and rain filled this immense basin, forming a closed hydrological system where no rivers flow in or out, resulting in its astonishing clarity and deep azure hue.

The lake’s extreme depth amplifies its sapphire color, as blue light wavelengths penetrate furthest, reflecting back with captivating intensity. This geological masterpiece serves as a living laboratory, a place where scientists study pristine ecosystems and visitors gain a profound appreciation for Earth’s transformative forces. Its isolation and the dramatic scale of its formation make Crater Lake a truly singular destination, where ancient history meets unparalleled natural splendor.

Things to Do

Unforgettable experiences await you.

Sightseeing

Drive the Rim Drive

This 33-mile scenic loop encircles Crater Lake, offering over 30 overlooks with breathtaking panoramic views of the deep blue water and Wizard Island. It provides the most accessible way to appreciate the lake's grandeur from various perspectives.

Outdoor Adventure

Take a Boat Tour to Wizard Island

Embark on a ranger-led boat tour from Cleetwood Cove to explore the lake's pristine waters and hike to the summit of Wizard Island, a cinder cone rising from the lake. This is the only way to legally access the lake shore and island.

Nature

Hike the Watchman Peak Trail

Enjoy a moderate 1.6-mile roundtrip hike to the historic Watchman Peak fire lookout, offering unparalleled sunset views and a magnificent vantage point over Wizard Island and the entire lake. It's one of the most rewarding short hikes in the park.

Nature

Stargaze at Rim Village

With minimal light pollution, Crater Lake National Park offers incredibly dark skies, making it a prime location for stargazing and viewing the Milky Way. Check for ranger-led astronomy programs during summer evenings.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Crater Lake’s Azure Depths — The park’s undisputed star, this 1,943-foot deep lake boasts North America’s purest, deepest blue water, a mesmerizing spectacle resulting from its clarity and volcanic origin. Take a moment at Sinnott Memorial Overlook in Rim Village for iconic views.

Rim Drive — This 33-mile scenic loop completely encircles the lake, providing over 30 breathtaking overlooks. Allow 2-3 hours to drive it with stops, more if you plan to hike. Major stops like Watchman, Cloudcap, and Phantom Ship Overlooks offer diverse perspectives of the caldera and its features.

Wizard Island — A picturesque cinder cone rising 755 feet from the lake’s surface, this “island within an island” is a miniature volcano. Access is exclusively via ranger-led boat tours from Cleetwood Cove (seasonal, tickets sell out far in advance), which often include time to hike its summit or explore the shoreline.

Cleetwood Cove Trail — The only legal access to the lake’s pristine shore, this strenuous 2.2-mile roundtrip trail descends 700 feet to the water’s edge. It’s the starting point for boat tours and offers the chance for a refreshing (but cold!) dip in the lake.

Watchman Peak Trail — A moderate 1.6-mile roundtrip hike with 420 feet of elevation gain, leading to a historic fire lookout. The panoramic views of Wizard Island and the entire lake are particularly stunning at sunset.

Stargazing — With minimal light pollution, Crater Lake offers incredibly dark skies. On clear nights, the Milky Way and countless stars are visible, making it a prime location for celestial observation. Keep an eye out for ranger-led astronomy programs during summer.

Essential Guide

Everything you need to know.

Must-Visit Spots

Wizard Island - Iconic cinder cone within the lake, accessible by seasonal boat tours.

Rim Drive - The 33-mile scenic road with numerous overlooks for panoramic lake views.

Watchman Overlook - Offers one of the best views of Wizard Island and the lake's western side.

Cleetwood Cove Trail - The only legal, albeit steep, access point to the lake's shore for swimming and boat tours.

Local Cuisine

Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room - Fine dining within the park with lake views, requiring reservations.

Annie Creek Restaurant - Casual dining in Mazama Village, offering American comfort food.

Rim Village Cafe - Quick bites, snacks, and coffee with views of the lake (seasonal).

Beckie's Cafe (Union Creek Resort) - Historic nearby cafe famous for its homemade pies and hearty meals.

Where to Stay

Crater Lake Lodge - Historic, elegant lodge right on the caldera rim, offering stunning views.

Mazama Village Cabins - Rustic cabins and a campground located 7 miles south of Rim Village.

Union Creek Resort - Charming historic resort located just outside the park, offering cabins and lodge rooms.

Prospect Hotel - A Victorian-era hotel in the nearby town of Prospect, known for its history and restaurant.

Travel Tips

Book lodging and boat tours far in advance, especially for summer, as options are very limited inside the park.

Prepare for variable mountain weather by packing layers, even in summer; conditions can change quickly at high altitudes.

Fill up your gas tank before entering the park; there are no gas stations within Crater Lake National Park itself.

Be aware of limited cell service throughout the park and download offline maps or necessary information beforehand.

Planning Your Visit

To make the most of your Crater Lake adventure, plan ahead! Lodging, camping, and especially boat tour tickets sell out months in advance for the popular summer season (July to early October), so book early. Your own vehicle is essential for exploring the park’s vast Rim Drive and surrounding areas; be sure to fill your gas tank before entering, as services are limited. Weather at Crater Lake can change rapidly, even in summer, so pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, and carry plenty of water and snacks, as dining options within the park are few.

Always check the park’s official website for current road conditions and closures before your visit, especially during spring and fall when snow can still affect access, and know that the North Entrance and most of Rim Drive close in winter. Be mindful of the park’s high elevation (over 6,000 feet) on strenuous hikes, and don’t rely on cell service, which is very limited or non-existent in much of the park.

When to Visit

Choose the perfect time for your adventure.

Peak Season: Summer (July - early October)

Pros

Full access to Rim Drive and all facilities.
Warmest temperatures for hiking and outdoor activities.
Boat tours to Wizard Island are operational.
Ranger programs and interpretive talks are abundant.

Cons

Highest crowds and potential for traffic congestion.
Requires booking lodging and activities well in advance.
Limited parking at popular overlooks.
Wildlife can be more elusive due to human presence.

Shoulder Season: Late Spring (Late May - June) & Early Fall (October)

Pros

Fewer crowds than peak summer.
Pleasant temperatures with a mix of sun and cooler days.
Some facilities and roads begin to open or remain accessible.
Good opportunities for photography with varied conditions.

Cons

Variable weather; sudden snow or rain is possible.
Portions of Rim Drive and some trails may still be closed.
Boat tours might not be fully operational in late spring.
Limited food and lodging options compared to peak season.

Off-Peak: Winter (November - April)

Pros

Incredible solitude and a unique, snowy landscape.
Excellent for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Opportunities for stunning winter photography.
Experience the park's tranquility without crowds.

Cons

Most park roads, including Rim Drive, are closed.
Limited services; only Rim Village Visitor Center and cafeteria open.
Access is often limited to the south entrance only.
Extreme cold and heavy snowfall can make travel challenging.

Crater Lake is a destination that captivates and inspires, a truly unparalleled natural wonder that seamlessly blends dramatic geological history with serene, breathtaking beauty. Whether gazing into its impossibly blue waters, hiking its scenic trails, or marveling at a star-studded sky, a journey here promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you refreshed, enlightened, and forever touched by its profound magic.

Sample Itineraries

Crater Lake Highlights in a Day

$150 for 2 people • 1 Day

Experience the park's key viewpoints and a short, scenic hike, perfect for a memorable day trip.

Day 1: Azure Depths & Volcanic Heights
- Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Begin your day early to beat the crowds and experience the tranquil beauty of Crater Lake. Enter the park via the South Entrance (Highway 62), paying the park entrance fee of $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days). Drive directly to Rim Village, a 20-minute drive from the South Entrance.
  - 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM: Rim Village & Sinnott Memorial Overlook: Park at Rim Village and head straight to the Sinnott Memorial Overlook. This iconic spot offers panoramic views of Crater Lake, Wizard Island, and a wealth of interpretive exhibits. Spend an hour soaking in the views and learning about the lake’s formation. Restrooms and the Rim Village Visitor Center are nearby for maps and information.
  - 8:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Discovery Point: Drive a short 1 mile west along Rim Drive to Discovery Point. This viewpoint offers the historic perspective of the first recorded sighting of Crater Lake by prospector John Wesley Hillman in 1853. Enjoy the easy walk along the rim.
  - 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM: Drive to The Watchman Overlook: Continue your drive along Rim Drive (clockwise) for approximately 3 miles to reach The Watchman Overlook and Trailhead. This will be your starting point for a scenic hike.
- Late Morning & Afternoon (9:30 AM - 5:00 PM)
  - 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM: Hike Watchman Peak Trail: Embark on a moderately strenuous, yet rewarding hike up Watchman Peak. This 1.6-mile roundtrip trail climbs about 400 feet, leading to an historic fire lookout with unparalleled 360-degree views of the entire lake and surrounding landscape. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the hike, including photo stops. The panoramic reward at the top is well worth the effort.
  - 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM: Picnic Lunch with a View: After your hike, find a scenic spot near The Watchman Overlook or Wizard Island Overlook to enjoy a packed picnic lunch. To keep within budget ($150 for 2 people), it’s highly recommended to bring your own sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. Cost for packed lunch & snacks: ~$30 for two people.
  - 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Rim Drive Highlights Continued: Continue your clockwise journey on Rim Drive, stopping at several key viewpoints:
    - Llao Rock Overlook (4 miles from Watchman): Offers dramatic views of the towering Llao Rock.
    - Cloudcap Overlook (6 miles from Llao Rock): The highest viewpoint on Rim Drive, providing expansive vistas.
    - Phantom Ship Overlook (3 miles from Cloudcap): Marvel at the distinctive Phantom Ship island, an ancient rock formation resembling a ghost ship.
    - Vidae Falls (3 miles from Phantom Ship): A beautiful cascading waterfall, often one of the first features visitors see if entering from the east. The drive itself around the full 33-mile Rim Drive takes about an hour without stops. Allow ample time for stops, photos, and enjoying the unique perspective from each overlook.
  - 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Return to Rim Village or Favorite Viewpoint: Begin your drive back towards Rim Village, or if time permits, revisit a favorite viewpoint for a final afternoon glimpse of the lake’s changing colors.
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards)
  - 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Casual Dinner: For a budget-friendly dinner within the park, head to the Rim Village Cafe and Gift Shop. They offer a selection of casual fare like burgers, salads, and sandwiches that are more affordable than the Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room. Expect to spend ~$40-$60 for dinner for two, depending on your selections. This ensures you stay within your $150 budget for the day (Park Fee $30 + Picnic $30 + Dinner $60 = $120 total).
  - 6:30 PM onwards: Stargazing or Departure: If you wish to extend your day, the night sky over Crater Lake is magnificent for stargazing due to minimal light pollution. Otherwise, depart the park, cherishing the memories of Crater Lake’s unparalleled beauty.

Deep Dive into Crater Lake's Beauty

$600 for 2 people • 2 Days

Explore the caldera rim, descend to the lake shore, and enjoy a boat tour, immersing yourself fully in the park's splendor.

Day 1: Rim-top Grandeur & Lakeside Immersion
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Arrive at Crater Lake National Park. Pay the entrance fee ($30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days). Head directly to Rim Village. Park your car and spend time exploring the Sinnott Memorial Overlook for iconic views of the lake and Wizard Island (allow 30-45 minutes). Pick up any last-minute supplies or snacks at the Rim Village Gift Shop. Consider a leisurely stroll along the paved path to Discovery Point Trail (2.2 miles round trip, relatively flat, 1-1.5 hours) for different perspectives of the caldera and the deep blue water. This is a great way to acclimate and soak in the initial views.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Drive to Cleetwood Cove Trailhead (approximately 11 miles from Rim Village, 20-25 minute drive along the East Rim Drive). Important: The boat tour requires a strenuous hike down and up the Cleetwood Cove Trail. This is the only legal access point to the lake shore. The trail is 1.1 miles one-way, descending 700 feet to the lake. Allow 30-45 minutes to hike down. Embark on the Crater Lake Boat Tour (approx. $46 per adult, ~$92 for two; reservations are highly recommended, often months in advance, and essential for securing a spot). The standard boat tour lasts about 2 hours, offering narrated insights into the lake’s geology and history, with close-up views of Wizard Island and the Phantom Ship. After the tour, prepare for the challenging 45-60 minute hike back up the Cleetwood Cove Trail.
- Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Freshen up and head back to Rim Village. Enjoy dinner at the Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room (reservations highly recommended, expect an average of $35-55 per person for an entree, total ~$70-110 for two). It offers a refined dining experience with stunning lake views. Alternatively, for a more casual and budget-friendly option, drive just outside the park’s south entrance to Annie Creek Restaurant at Crater Lake Resort (approx. 7 miles from Rim Village, 15-20 minutes drive; expect $15-25 per person, total ~$30-50 for two). After dinner, return to a quiet spot along the Rim Village area for stargazing – Crater Lake offers spectacular night skies away from city lights.
Day 2: East Rim Wonders & Panoramic Farewell
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Begin your day exploring the less-traveled East Rim Drive. Head east from Rim Village, stopping at several scenic overlooks. Your first major stop should be Cloudcap Overlook (approx. 8 miles from Rim Village, 15 minutes drive; highest paved road in Oregon) for breathtaking panoramic views of the entire lake, Wizard Island, and the Phantom Ship. Continue along the East Rim Drive to Pinnacles Overlook (approx. 7 miles from Cloudcap, 15 minutes drive). Take a short, easy walk (0.8 miles round trip, 30 minutes) along the paved path to view the fascinating pumice spires known as “The Pinnacles,” remnants of ancient volcanic fumeroles. Consider a slightly more strenuous but rewarding hike to Garfield Peak from the Crater Lake Lodge trailhead (3.4 miles round trip, 1000 ft elevation gain, 2-3 hours). This trail offers increasingly dramatic views as you ascend, culminating in a spectacular vantage point.
- Afternoon (1:30 PM - 4:00 PM) After your morning explorations, enjoy a casual lunch. You can grab sandwiches, salads, or hot food at the Rim Village Cafe (expect $10-15 per person, total ~$20-30 for two) or pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks. Spend some time revisiting your favorite viewpoint or explore Watchman Peak (3.2 miles round trip, 800 ft elevation gain, 1.5-2 hours) on the West Rim, offering another iconic perspective and a fire lookout. This provides a final opportunity to immerse yourself in the lake’s beauty before beginning your departure.
- Evening (4:00 PM onwards) Take one last look at the pristine waters of Crater Lake from Rim Village. Spend a few moments reflecting on the unique geological marvel. If time allows, browse the Rim Village Gift Shop for souvenirs. Begin your drive out of the park, taking with you memories of this extraordinary deep blue gem. Total estimated costs for activities and food for two people will be approximately $250-350, leaving ample budget for gas and accommodation outside the park.

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