crater lake visit in winter

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Crater Lake in Winter

Last Updated on July 5, 2024

by Audrey Webster

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During the winter months, Crater Lake National Park transforms into a wonderland. Its chilly temperatures and several feet of snow shouldn’t keep you from visiting this stunning park. If you’re thinking of exploring Crater Lake in the wintertime, this is the guide for you.

We’ll cover everything from what to pack, how to get around, and the best things to do throughout the park during the winter. Visiting Crater Lake National Park during the winter months is truly a unique experience. Beautiful and serene landscapes await you.

Table of Contents

Crater Lake Weather in Winter

Winter in Crater Lake usually lasts from early November to early May.

During this time, the park sees copious amounts of snow and freezing temperatures. Because the lake sits at 6200 feet elevation, it almost always has snow on the ground. Though it experiences tough winter conditions, the park remains year-round. 

Always check the weather conditions before driving up to the park. There are webcams on the National Park Service’s website where you can see what the park looks like in real-time.

The road to the crater rim will sometimes be closed if a storm has rolled through and brought several feet of snow. Whiteout conditions aren’t uncommon, so just make sure to keep an eye on the forecast as you approach your trip. 

Throughout December, the temperatures within the park can drop as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-7 degrees Celcius) with a high of 35 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees Celcius).

January and February temperatures are usually about the same, with a few degrees of difference. These three months are among the coldest, but the chilly temperatures can continue into March and April. 

Most people arrive at Crater Lake expecting picturesque blue skies with a few clouds above a rich blue lake. However, when visiting in winter, you usually have a 50/50 chance of seeing the entire lake.

It’s often blocked by clouds, so viewing the entire lake during the winter is rare. That said, the portion of the lake you can see is stunning when surrounded by snow.

Getting Around Crater Lake

Crater Lake is open all year long and 24 hours a day. During the winter, however, the north entrance road and Rim Drive are closed to wheeled vehicles. The west and south entrances are ploughed daily and open to personal vehicles.

There is a 3-mile road from the park headquarters to the crater rim that will periodically close if the weather conditions become unsafe. The road might have a delayed opening if it’s icy, even if it’s a blue-sky day.

You’ll need a car when driving to Crater Lake no matter what time of year you visit. Whether you’re driving your own vehicle or renting one, make sure it’s durable enough to drive in snow and potentially icy conditions. Always carry chains and know how to drive in snowy winter weather. 

You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices for hire cars, or alternatively, check out Outdoorsy if you prefer to rent an RV.

There aren’t any large airports near Crater Lake. Portland International Airport is the closest and it’s about a 5-hour drive away, but there are plenty of great stops along the way from Portland .

There are limited gas stations and restaurants around the park. The Mazama and Rim villages have places for lodging, eating, and shopping, but there aren’t many options. Make sure you have a full tank of gas and plenty of snacks for the duration of your visit. 

Which Month to Visit Crater Lake?

Compared to the summer months, Crater Lake sees fewer visitors during the winter overall. This is great for those who want to experience the park while it’s less crowded. Here’s what to expect when visiting during December, January, and February. 

By December, there is about 47 inches (120cm) of snow on average. The winter season is still early, but you’re more likely to encounter more moderate weather conditions. Because of this, there might also be more crowds, but there will still be way fewer people than in the summer.

Snowfall dramatically increases in January. The average snow depth rises to about 79 inches (200cm). The area around Crater Lake usually gets more than 100 inches (254cm) of snow throughout January. This month has more unpredictable weather.

If you visit during January, make sure you’ve taken all the proper precautions for handling winter weather. Visitors should also avoid getting too close to the caldera rim because snow shelves can appear to be stable when they really aren’t.

The number of people who visit in January also drops, so it can be a good month for enjoying the park without the crowds.

February sees the fewest visitors each day, which could be appealing to some. You can easily enjoy winter outdoor activities without needing to navigate crowds. That said, make sure you come prepared for inclement weather.

February is one of the coldest months. Ensure you have plenty of snacks and drinkable water because potable water and food aren’t always available – keep this in mind when you pack for Crater Lake.

What to Wear At Crater Lake

Crater Lake is one of the snowiest places in the United States. That said, winters are very cold and dense with snow. It’s recommended that you pack more layers of clothing than you think you’ll need. This includes gloves or mittens, beanies, thermal layers, snow jackets, and maybe even a face covering to help protect your face from the wind. 

Wear outer layers that are waterproof. Most of all, make sure your shoes are waterproof as well. Try to find a sturdy pair of boots for your visit. This is especially true if you’re doing any winter activity like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. 

Bring an extra pair of clothes to leave in the car, including an additional park of warm socks. Depending on the weather, you might want to consider packing a pair of sunglasses.

If the sun is out at all, it can reflect off the snow and become really bright. If this becomes the case, you’ll be thankful you brought them. Finally, don’t forget to bring your camera or even a set of binoculars.

Things to do in Crater Lake in Winter

Merely admiring Crater Lake from the rim is an amazing way to experience the park. However, there are plenty of things to do in Crater Lake during the winter to fill your time. If you have the time, you could also loop this in with a visit to nearby Diamond Lake – another gorgeous place to visit. Here are some of the highlights. 

Visit the crater rim overlook

You can only reach the rim of Crater Lake by car when the weather conditions permit it. However, if the road to the rim is open, it’s well worth the visit.

You might be required to use chains or snow tires on your vehicle even if the road is ploughed. You’ll drive to the top where you’ll reach a parking lot. Leave your car here and walk the rest of the way to the overlook. 

Make sure you have sturdy shoes as you’ll still be trekking through snow to reach the overlook. You can pause for a warm cup of hot cocoa or stop into the gift shop. The Rim Village is a great place to start if you plan to snowshoe part of the rim trail. 

Go snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is hands-down one of the best and most accessible activities to do in Crater Lake. It’s a great way to experience parts of the park you wouldn’t be able to reach with a car when it’s snowy. 

There are plenty of established snowshoeing trails throughout the park. The most popular one is along the crater rim. This gives you stunning views of the lake’s bright blue waters from vantage points you can’t reach with a car.

If you plan to snowshoe in Crater Lake, make the necessary arrangements to rent gear outside the park as there are no rental outfits within park boundaries. You don’t need to have snowshoed before to try it. Just strap on the gear and head out on an established trail. Waterproof clothes and shoes are needed. 

You can also opt for a ranger-led snowshoeing tour. These tours take visitors through the forests and meadows near Rim Village. You’ll get to experience some of the park’s beauty while learning about the landscape from a knowledgeable ranger. 

Finally, if you’re interested in a more adventurous route to exploring the rim, a handful of brave visitors circle the entire crater. Spring months are the most popular time for this activity because the weather is more reliably good. It takes around 3 days to complete.

Try sledding

While there are no designated sledding areas in the park, there are plenty of smooth slopes free of trees that visitors have turned into sledding routes. The meadow south of Crater Lake Lodge is one popular location.

When scouting hills for sledding, make sure there are no nearby trees and the hill doesn’t have bumps. The end of the hill should level out into a flat landing for easy stopping. If you are sledding on a hill you’ve found, read up on safety measures for cornices and tree wells. 

It’s prohibited to sled or tube in the caldera and all roadways throughout the park that are open to traffic. Sledding can be a great way to add a kid-friendly winter activity to your visit to Crater Lake. It’s a good option if you have kids who aren’t old enough for snowshoeing or renting a snowmobile. 

Rent a snowmobile

Snowmobiling along the rim of Crater Lake is a truly unique experience. If there is enough snow on the ground, there is a 9-mile route to the rim of the lake groomed for snowmobiles. It’s closed to vehicles, so you can ride it without worrying about encountering larger cars. 

There are a few rules to bear in mind when renting a snowmobile to ride in Crater Lake. It must stay on the groomed and marked path. All drivers must have a valid state driver’s licence or state snowmobile permit.

If you start the route outside the park, you still need a valid park entrance pass even though you won’t pass through the same checkpoint at vehicles. It’s also prohibited to drive a snowmobile along the Rim Drive. 

Taking a snowmobile can be a great way to experience the park and have a little fast-paced fun. Driving the entire route to the rim is usually a full-day activity, so it’s best if you have more than one day in the area.

Make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. It’ll be windy while riding a snowmobile, so wear extra layers and something to cover your face. 

Winter hiking

If you still want to set out on the trails around Crater Lake without snowshoes, consider winter hiking. There are three notable trails that you can easily access from the park’s winter main entry point.

First is the Discovery Point Trail. It’s 3.97 miles with an elevation gain of 915 feet. It’s a great, moderately strenuous trail for all levels of hikers. 

If you want a more adventurous trail, Garfield Peak Trail is a great option. It comes in at 3.4 miles roundtrip and offers incredible panoramic views of the area around the park. There are several challenging points along the trail, making it mildly strenuous.

Finally, the Sun Notch Trail is one of the most popular ones. It’s a small loop and just under one mile. 

Where to Stay Near Crater Lake

Aspen Inn – This rustic inn is another excellent place to stay within a stone’s throw of Crater Lake National Park. They have a range of comfortable rooms to choose from, a fantastic location and friendly owners.

Private Rental – If you’d like to have your own space while visiting Crater Lake – such as this beautiful wooden cabin – then consider a private vacation rental. There are a number of different properties to choose from within easy reach of the park.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Crater Lake hotels!

A visit to Crater Lake in the winter is spectacular. The entire park transforms into a snowy wonderland that is filled with plenty of things to do and see. You’re certain to have an amazing visit. 

Are you planning a winter trip to Crater Lake? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

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Oregon – Visiting Crater Lake National Park in Winter

With 43+ feet of snow each year, Crater Lake is a snowy, gorgeous wonderland in winter. I decided to visit on a road trip in early March 2022 to see the deep blue lake surrounded by snowy slopes. However, when we arrived at the entrance kiosk, the ranger let us know we might not see the lake due to the cloudy conditions, with clouds often settling into the crater. Eeeks! Driving all that way without the guarantee of seeing the lake would be such a bummer!! Luckily, the clouds began to clear, and we got to see all of Crater Lake with patchy clouds – it was stunning.

While I describe my experience, I want to discuss the variable weather you may encounter at Crater Lake, what to do while you’re at the rim, and share the special little place we stayed on the Rogue River. Don’t stop here – keep reading!

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Crater Lake in Winter, an Introduction

Crater Lake in summer is a sight to behold with deep turquoise water and slopes on all sides. Winter is a bit of a different story as it gets buried under an average of 43+ feet of snow each year. I was super shocked to hear this and wondered what the National Park does to have visitors in winter. They clear one road up to the south rim most days (I read that they close it some days, so check the National Park Website for current conditions). With this in mind, we arranged our trip so that we could visit on Monday, February 28, and Tuesday, March 1.

By driving up to the South Rim, you can visit the “Rim Village.” It’s pretty cute that they call it a village because, in winter, there are only two buildings open – the visitor’s center/gift shop and the bathrooms! There are more buildings around that were boarded up until summer. Other notable facts about Crater Lake include:

• The lake is 1,943 feet deep, making it the deepest lake in the United States and the 8th deepest in the world.
• It’s only about 6 miles across at its widest
• It’s only ever frozen over one time in recent history (in 1949) because of the volume of water in the lake (5 trillion gallons).
• A massive volcanic eruption created a caldera 7,700 years ago—snow and rain filled in all of the water you see today.

At a Glance:

• Rating: 4 (out of 4) stars; I would go again!
• Intensity: Winter/snow clothes
• Location: Crater Lake National Park
• Cost: $20/ per car, or get the National Parks Pass for $80/annually ( you can even get it at REI! )
• Restrooms: There are bathrooms in the parking area of the Rim Village and one inside the gift shop building.
• Timing: 2 – 8 hours
• Distance: Depends how far you decide to hike/snowshoe – you could walk 50 ft or 2+ miles.

Highlights:

• Low crowds. It’s likely the time we went, but we arrived at the parking area at 10 am and saw exactly two cars on our second day. Amazing.
• Seeing the clouds slowly part to reveal the lake
• Rainbow over Crater Lake!
• Mist through the trees on the drive back to our place
• The possibility that you will be unable to see the lake due to the cloud cover.
• Most of the area is inaccessible, so there is not as much to do in winter.

Visitor’s Center and Gift Shop

When we arrived on the first day, it was lightly sprinkling and didn’t look promising for clear skies. With the news from the ranger at the entrance, we reset our expectations from “we are going to get great views of Crater Lake today!” to “let’s go see what we can see and enjoy the snow at Crater Lake.” We checked out the visitor’s center and gift shop after using the restroom (which was thankfully heated inside).

The visitor’s center was on the top floor, but didn’t seem like the permanent location. Plastic tables with presentations boards were set up with the history of Lake and were informative. There is also a “viewing window,” which was comical in dense clouds. We couldn’t tell how far we were from the lake and I bet it is a nice view in clear weather. There are some tables on the top floor if you want to eat indoors.

You can visit the gift shop on the floor below, rent snowshoes, and buy food at the cafeteria. I spent a while in the extensive gift shop and walked away with the grey beanie(featured in some of my photos). The cashier let us know that it was a mild winter, and they had only gotten about 18 ft of snow at that point. Interesting!

Exploring the Rim in Winter

We decided to take a walk over to the rim to check it out. We made jokes about beautiful Crater Lake with absolutely no view. When the wind changed, could see a sliver of the lake – it was so much closer than we anticipated! There was a Clark’s Nutcracker bird in the tree, which had a little white head and breast with dark feathers. It didn’t seem to mind the frosty, blitzing wind. After watching the bird and throwing a few snowballs gently at each other, we made our way toward the west rim road. It was socked in, but we decided to take a short walk.

While looking at the lake, we noticed a gap in the clouds to see across the lake. We rushed to take photos with that small gap. Before long, the Wizard’s Island became visible beneath the clouds! We started to see more and more of the lake! Taking photos and freezing, we decided to take a break in the car and eat a sandwich. After a sandwich, we went back out to see pockets of blue sky – the bluest we would see on the trip. We marveled at every new thing we could see, but the clouds over Wizard’s Island never completely disappeared. We vowed to return the next day and take a walk further along the road.

Hiking or Snowshoeing on the Rim Road

We had a better idea of where things were located on our second day and decided to walk the West Rim Road to Discovery Point. We didn’t rent snowshoes as the snow was compact enough for us to walk on the day before without issue, and it hadn’t snowed that night. There are signs to stay out of the cross-country skiing tracks and off of cornices. Chatting along the way, it was slow going with a slight incline until we saw the lake again. Once we did, we got a closer view of Wizard Island. We knew people were around – a couple with snowshoes was far behind – but overall, we had the place entirely to ourselves. Incredible.

We climbed a big hill for our closest view of Wizard Island before turning around. It was an excellent time to turn around because we could see rain in the distance. Sure enough, as we were about halfway back, little raindrops started. Luckily, it never rained harder than that. Once we rounded the corner, we saw something extraordinary due to the light rain – a rainbow over Wizard’s Island!!

I believe we went about 2 miles on the snow-covered road. It was crazy to see areas that didn’t have snow – little patches of ground or road. And it felt out of place to see an informational plaque, but there it was! Although it wasn’t particularly busy at Rim Village, it was still nice to take a peaceful walk in nature.

Other Activities: Cross-Country Skiing and Snowmobiling

While planning the trip to Crater Lake, I had my heart set on snowmobiling to the north rim. The weather wasn’t looking good, so we didn’t pre-book anything from the Diamond Lake Resort, which I found directly on the Crater Lake National Park brochure. You can snowmobile up to the North Rim via a snowmobile route! It doesn’t look like you would be able to get much further around the rim, but I think it would be pretty fun. After our experience on the first day without a guarantee of seeing the lake, we decided to pass on snowmobiling. Perhaps in the future!

The other activity available is cross-country skiing on the rim road. We did some cross-country skiing at the Shasta Nordic Center, but we were not comfortable going off groomed runs. You can get backcountry passes and ski around the rim road over 3 – 4 days. That sounds like such an incredible experience, and I look forward to the day I feel confident enough for this adventure.

Variable Weather Makes for Stunning Photos

It was a shock when the ranger told us we might not see the lake of Crater Lake due to the cloudy weather. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t worried, as the ranger made it sound very common. Luckily, the conditions changed with time, and it was a magical reveal of Crater Lake and Wizard’s Island (pun intended). It made me appreciate the views much more deeply. In addition to the reveal, there were three other moments when the weather made for an even more-stunning scene:

• When we returned from our snow hike, it started sprinkling on us. As we rounded the corner to see the lake again, there was a rainbow for just a few minutes. We were able to snag a few photos before it disappeared.
• On the drive back to our accommodations in Sandy Cover, we noticed pockets of mist on the road. It was likely caused by evaporation due to the light rain in the morning. At one point, the sun was coming through the trees and the mist as soft rays – it was GORGEOUS, so we stopped and took a few photos on the road. Continuing on the drive, I looked in the rearview mirror and couldn’t see the light rays anymore. We were there with the sun in the right direction at the right time!
• And finally, on our drive south toward Klamath Falls, we noticed some rain in the distance across a snowfield. Again, we had to stop to take photos – it all just felt so alive!

Crater Lake Recommendations – Winter

What you plan to do at Crater Lake during winter will determine what you should bring. However, it’s truly winter with blustery wind and deep snow until May! Here’s a shortlist of good things to bring:

• Warm base and mid-layer
• Wind-resistant outer layer
• Lunch and food for the day
• Small tripod for photos

Where to Stay near Crater Lake (in Winter)

Like most National Parks, Crater Lake is remote. The nearest towns (including Shady Cove and Klamath Falls) are about an hour away. We passed some smaller residences on our way into the national park, so if you look early, you might be able to stay a little closer.

We stayed in Shady Cove in the most adorable vacation rental cabin on the Rogue River!! I typically don’t go in-depth on where I stay because I tend to pick economical Airbnbs, but I had to share this one. It’s called “Romantic & private cabin on Rogue River, 1 hr from Crater Lake,” and I found it on VRBO . I think they also have a listing for the cabin on Airbnb. There is a main building with more rooms, but this listing is specifically for the cabin with a patio right out on the Rouge. The cabin was built in the mid-1930s and had many fun vintage appliances, like a refrigerator with a couple of different doors/openings.

Adorably appointed, I loved the little touches like bed warmers! There is shared access (we didn’t have to share because no one else was booked at the hotel) to a hot tub and round sauna. One evening, we sat in the hot tub, and a bald eagle flew through the canyon! The following day, I saw other waterfowl on the river. Such a cool place!

Overall Thoughts: Crater Lake in Winter

Although it would be nice to get blue-bird skies during our visit to Crater Lake, I think the variable weather is more common. It was amazing seeing everything so alive – the wind on the lake, moving clouds, and the rainbow!! For the last nine years, the snowfall has been less than average. They have started plowing Rim Road (not open to cars) as of March 6, which was six weeks ahead of schedule this year.

During our time at Crater Lake, I’m not sure we ever saw more than ten people at a time (and that was in the gift shop). Perhaps it was the weather or the weekday element, but it was quiet and peaceful. It’s been a while since I’ve been to a national park with so few people!! The lake was stunning, and it was so lovely to see it under a blanket of snow. I am looking forward to doing cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, or hiking in the summer.

Would you still visit Crater Lake in winter with fewer things to do? Let me know in the comments if you think I should check anything else out in the area next time I visit! I’d love to hear from you.

Happy Travels,

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• GETAWAYS >>
• British Columbia

Winter Fun at Crater Lake National Park

• Lauren Braden
• December 14, 2018
• One Comment

The deepest lake in the United States is a pool of sapphire water ringed by sheer cliffs piled with snow. Beautiful in summer months, the lake is stunning beyond words in winter. The only catch is timing – to get the most stunning views you must hit it on a clear day.

This is Oregon’s  Crater Lake , formed in the aftermath of Mount Mazama’s volcanic eruption circa 5670 BC. It’s the centerpiece of Oregon’s  Crater Lake National Park ,  and I’m told it’s not actually a volcanic crater at all, but a volcanic  caldera . (Truly, I don’t know the difference, as I’ll bet this topic was covered on one of the many days I skipped geology class to go birdwatching in the Wisconsin prairie. Birds trump rocks.)

Visiting Crater Lake in Winter

Compared to the throngs of people at Crater Lake National Park in summer, the park is lightly visited in winter. Though it’s always open, some of the roads and facilities close seasonally (October – May) like the Rim Visitor Center and the historic Crater Lake Lodge. The Steel Visitor Center remains open 10am-4pm daily (except December 25). In winter, only the park’s south entrance is open, so travelers from Seattle or Portland must drive south to the Medford/Jacksonville area, then approach the park from the south. The entrance fee to visit the park is $15 per vehicle, and it’s good for the next seven days.

To get there , take I-5 to Medford, Oregon, then Oregon Highway 62 about 75 miles north to Crater Lake National Park. Highway 62 and the road to Rim Village (Munson Valley Road) are plowed and open all year. However, snowy and icy road conditions can occur and may result in temporary road closures. Carry tire chains. Always check out the park’s  current conditions  before your visit.

About that scenery:  The lake is completely invisible about 50% of the time in the winter and early spring. Check the  weather forecast  or call the Crater Lake dispatch at (541) 594-3000 the morning of your planned winter day trip into the park. To find out if Crater Lake is currently visible, you can also  view the webcam  at Rim Village.

What to do:  Once you’re there, you’ll want to get out of your car and explore. Cross-country skis or snowshoes (we use these high-quality yet affordable  Atlas snowshoes ) are recommended for exploring on trails beyond the park’s plowed roads. Don’t miss the free ranger-led snowshoe walks offered by the park (see below). For self-guided recreation, consult the park’s  Winter Visitor Guide  (PDF) for trail details, maps, pet regulations and more. You should always call the park visitor center at (541) 594-3100 for the latest conditions, including avalanche danger.

Where to Stay:  Sadly, the historic Crater Lake Lodge is shuttered up and closed in winter. West of Crater Lake is the  Union Creek Resort , where simple cabins set in the Rogue River National Forest provide a cozy, rustic backdrop to your getaway. Some cabins have full kitchens, or eat at the cafe at the lodge. You can also make the greater Medford area your base. My top recommendation is to make yourself home at the  Magnolia Inn  in the nearby town of Jacksonville. Take a day trip to Crater Lake National Park from here, then spend some time strolling through this historic town, trying a few restaurants and shopping at the local boutiques. The city of Medford has several chain hotels and a few B&Bs. Another cool place to stay in the general area is the  Weasku Inn   near Grants Pass, a fishing lodge on the banks of the Rogue River.

FREE Ranger-Guided Snowshoe Walks at Crater Lake

Ranger-guided snowshoe walks are a fun and safe way to experience the winter wonderland of Crater Lake National Park. Free guided snowshoe walks are offered on weekends and holidays from December 8, 2018 through April 28, 2019 and every day from December 15 through January 6. They start at 1:00 pm, last two hours, and cover 1 to 2 miles of moderate-to-strenuous terrain.

Participants must wear snowshoes on this guided hike because of the deep snow along the route. Snowshoes are provided for  free , and no previous snowshoeing experience is necessary.

Each walk is limited to 30 people, ages 8 and older only.  Sign up in advance by calling (541) 594-3100.  No reservations? A few spots might be open on the day of the walk, so stop by the Steel Visitor Center at Park Headquarters when you arrive. The walks last 2 hours and cover about 1 mile of moderately strenuous terrain. Ranger guides will share their knowledge of winter ecology and local volcanic history with participants.

What to Wear on a Snowshoe Hike

Having the right clothing on can make all the difference between a miserable, cold day or a warm, comfortable day in the snowy backcountry.  Read our full article on what to wear on a snowshoe hike .

Crater Lake: The Story Behind the Scenery

Crater Lake National Park, located in south central Oregon, was established in 1902 to preserve this deep blue lake encircled by multicolored lava walls. Each book in The Story Behind the Scenery series tells a compelling story through the eyes of an experienced interpreter whose writing reflects true enthusiasm for the park. Complete with running text and interpretive captions, accompanied by abundant full-color photographs, these books will be welcome in any home library.

by Shea Andersen, published by The Mountaineers Books

This well-researched guidebook offers snowshoe trails throughout the state for every experience level, with detailed descriptions of routes and safety information.

Get avalanche-savvy! It can save your life. 

Enroll in an avalanche awareness/safety class. Learn as much as you can before heading out into the mountains in winter conditions.

The Northwest Avalanche Center  promotes avalanche safety by helping with current information on snow pack structure, avalanche danger and forecasts of mountain weather conditions. Visit the Northwest Avalanche Center website at  www.nwac.us

This article was first published in December 2012, and has been updated.

Photo credits: snowshoer at Crater Lake by  Kellec , landscape of Crater Lake by  Eric Leslie .

Lauren Braden’s new book, 52 Ways to Nature, Washington: Your Seasonal Guide to a Wilder Year, is now available ! 

One Response

While I have been to Crater Lake when it snowed (in August!) I have never seen it in the winter. Adding snowshoeing in Crater Lake to the list.

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Visiting Crater Lake National Park In The Winter

• North America

A visit to Oregon is not complete unless you visit the nation’s deepest lake, Crater Lake. An almost perfectly round blue lake, with snowcapped peaks year-round, is a picture-perfect spot located in Southern Oregon and is open year-round. However, it is only fully visible about 50% of the time.

Crater Lake National Park is accessible yearlong. With an average of 43 feet of snowfall, it is one of the snowiest places in the United States and only some parts of it are accessible during the winter season. Visiting Crater Lake in the winter feels like being in a fairytale with snow-capped peaks and crystal blue water.

Crater Lake was created by a volcanic eruption, and as the magma chamber emptied the mountain could not support its own weight and collapsed, forming a deep caldera where the snow-capped volcano once stood. The deep basin, the deepest lake in the country at 1,943 feet (about twice the height of the Empire State Building), has been filled with centuries of rainfall and snowfall. No streams go in and out of the lake, minimizing any sediment and preserving its perfect blue color. Wizard Island in the lake is a volcanic cone left over from the eruption and can be accessed by boat during the summer months.

General Information about Crater Lake in the Winter

The Visitor Center, Crater Lake Lodge, and Rim Café & Gift Shop are all closed for the winter season. Bathroom facilities are open.

Gasoline – The park’s gas station is closed for the winter. A charging station for electric vehicles is available but may not be accessible during heavy snowfall.

Driving and Parking – Park roads can get icy, drive slowly. Only park in designated areas or if allowed in certain spots by park rangers.

Winter Trails – The park’s hiking trails are buried under snow and impossible to follow which is why we created a list of trails that are accessible during winter. Cross-country skis or snowshoes can be very helpful during winter hikes. There is no place inside of the park to rent them from and the two closest locations to the park are Union Creek Resort in Union Creek and Sky Lakes Wilderness Adventures in Chiloquin.

Hiking Trails in Crater Lake National Park

West rim drive trails.

During summer, driving on the Rim Drive is a fantastic way to see the lake, with over 30 different overlooks for those limited on time or not interested in hiking.

During winter, the rim drive is covered with snow and is a great hiking trail to different viewpoints. To find it, climb the snowbank across from the Rim Village restrooms then head west.

East Rim Drive Trails

A less traveled road than the West Rim, but still provides amazing views of the lake. Heading east from the Crater Lake Lodge, which is closed during the winter season, gets you on a path toward a few hikes on the East Rim. As mentioned above, this is a less traveled side of the lake and when we were there the snow was hard to manage without snowshoes.

Snowmobiling

Since the North Entrance Road is not open for driving, it is groomed for snowmobile travel. Most people start their snowmobiling journey at Diamond Lake Resort, you can rent snowmobiles here, and drive to North Junction to enjoy spectacular views.

There are no designated sled hills in the park or snow-play area, but you can find many opportunities to do so yourself. Just be mindful of other visitors and keep your distance. A popular area for sledding is the open meadow south of Crater Lake Lodge.

Crater Lake in March was a stunning winter wonderland when we visited. We just could not get enough of the views and we lucked out with a perfectly clear and sunny day. There is probably more to do here in the summer, but it would be hard to beat the beauty of winter splendor.

To stay with up-to-date information about the park and its accessibility especially during COVID make sure you check the national park service’s website .

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Winter Day Trip To Crater Lake

Photo courtesy of Travel Southern Oregon .

There’s so much to do in Southern Oregon, and when your journey starts in Phoenix, you’re just a short trip from a winter wonderland. 

Crater Lake is the jewel of Southern Oregon and a highlight for many visiting the area. Most visitors experience Crater Lake in the summer months, but did you know that Crater Lake makes a great road trip in the winter? 

Experience One of Oregon’s Natural Wonders 

Crater Lake is the deepest lake in America. Surrounded by cliffs nearly 2,000 feet high and with the bluest waters you’ll ever lay eyes on, the stunning visual is only enhanced with the addition of snow-capped peaks. Among other activities, you can cross-country ski or snowshoe in the winter, or hike in an old-growth forest when it’s warmer. While many of the roads and facilities are closed during the winter, the park is open and accessible throughout the year.

But before embarking on your winter adventure, check for any park or road closures .

Crater Lake is open 24 hours a day and the entrance fee for most vehicles is $20 from November 1 through May 21. When winter road closures are in effect, you can drive into the park through the West or South entrances. Highway 62 and the road to Park Headquarters are plowed daily and open year-round. Additionally, the road from Park Headquarters to Rim Village is plowed during winter, but is sometimes closed during times of heavy snow accumulation. 

Winter Exploration

Winter is a great time to visit Crater Lake. You can backpack in the park all year long, and there’s ample opportunities for skiers and snowshoers to experience Crater Lake’s natural beauty.

While the park’s summer trails are hidden under snow, you can still enjoy a winter trek. One of our favorites is the Raven Trail, which provides access for cross-country skiers and snowshoers to reach the rim of the lake. The trail is two miles roundtrip and gains 610 feet in elevation. It begins at the gate across from Park Headquarters and is marked with blue diamonds on the tree trunks. However, Raven Trail crosses the runout of several avalanche chutes, so don’t linger when crossing these areas. There’s a lot to see on this hike, so stay alert, have your camera ready, and take in all the gorgeous natural scenery around you.

If you love to snowmobile, the next stop on your journey should be the park’s North Entrance Road. At North Junction, snowmobilers enjoy amazing views of Crater Lake. Most people start their ride at Diamond Lake Resort, five miles north of the park, where there are also snowmobiles for rent. Inside the park, snowmobiles must stay on the groomed and marked route. It’s the ride of a lifetime! 

A Snowy Oasis

The Rogue Valley is home to numerous winter activities. Play in the snow, and let the refreshing, cold air rejuvenate you from the inside out. The next time you’re in Phoenix and looking to explore more of our valley, visit Crater Lake. It’s one of Oregon’s greatest wonders in our own backyard!

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The Ultimate Guide to Crater Lake National Park — Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

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Table of Contents

How to get to crater lake national park, getting around crater lake national park, what to see and do in crater lake national park, best times to visit crater lake national park, where to stay in crater lake national park, where to eat in crater lake national park, crater lake national park facts, final thoughts.

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Crater Lake National Park was established in the Cascade Mountains of southern Oregon in 1902. This park stretches over 183,000 acres of evergreen forest, mountains, streams, and a magnificent lake.

The Crater Lake area was formed over 7,700 years ago when a violent eruption activated the collapse of a tall peak in the area. The park was named after the lake, filled mostly with water from the massive amounts of yearly snowfall.

Crater Lake National Park brings in over 640,000 guests annually who want to explore all the beauty and wonder found in the park.

Where Is Crater Lake National Park?

Crater Lake National Park is nestled in the Cascade Mountains in southern Oregon. As the only national park in the state of Oregon, Crater Lake National Park is found 90 miles south of Bend and 100 miles from the Pacific Coast.

Whether you plan to arrive by plane, personal vehicle, or another form of transportation, you will be captivated by the beauty and wonder that awaits you at Crater Lake National Park.

Nearest Airports to Crater Lake National Park

There are several airports close to Crater Lake National Park. Some of these airports are smaller options for private flights, while others are more well-known and offer commercial flights. Let’s take a look at some of the major airports that are close to Crater Lake National Park and see what they have to offer.

Eugene Airport (EUG)

Eugene Airport is the closest major airport to Crater Lake National Park. This airport is located 120 miles from the park, and it takes about 3.5 hours to drive there.

Eugene Airport offers nonstop flights to over a dozen major cities in the West and Southwest. Eugene Airport services many popular airlines, including Alaska Airlines, Allegiant, American, Delta, Southwest, and United.

Rogue Valley International Medford Airport (MFR)

Rogue Valley International Medford Airport is an airport in Oregon that some travelers decide to use when flying to Crater Lake National Park. This airport is 80 miles southwest of the park and takes about an hour and 45 minutes to arrive.

Rogue Valley International Medford Airport services many popular airlines, including Allegiant, American, Delta, and United. This airport offers nonstop flights to 12 major cities in the western U.S., including Salt Lake City (SLC), San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX), and Las Vegas (LAS).

Driving to Crater Lake National Park

There are 3 entrances that can be utilized for those driving to Crater Lake National Park. The most popular entrances are the west and south entrances. Below, the routes from different major cities are laid out.

From the Medford Area

The drive from Medford to Crater Lake National Park takes approximately an hour and 45 minutes, just 80 miles apart. Travelers arriving from the Medford area in the west will follow Highway 62 to the west entrance. The park’s west entrance is open year-round.

From the Klamath Falls Area

Those coming from the Klamath Falls are in the south and are just 60 miles from Crater Lake National Park. Highway 97 to Highway 62 is the route that will bring you to the park’s south entrance. This entrance is also open year-round. This journey will take about an hour and a half to drive.

From the Eugene Area

From Eugene, travelers will leave Interstate 5 in Eugene and take Highway 58 to Highway 97. Turning west on Highway 138 will take you to that entrance if the north entrance is open.

There are times during the year when the north entrance is closed, so be sure to plan ahead. If it is closed, continue south on Highway 97 and drive through the town of Chiloquin until you can access Highway 62 to the park’s south entrance.

From the Roseburg Area

For those arriving from the Roseburg area, northwest of the park, Highway 138 East will take you to the park’s north entrance. If the north entrance is closed, follow Highway 138 to Highway 230 and then Highway 62. This route will take you to the west entrance of the park.

Taking the Train to Crater Lake National Park

Travelers who enjoy taking a trip by railway will be delighted to learn that Amtrak can get you very close to Crater Lake National Park.

Those who utilize Amtrak’s train service will arrive at the Klamath Falls station and can rent a car, Uber, or take the seasonal Crater Lake Trolley to the park’s entrance. Klamath Falls is only 60 miles from the park , making this an excellent option for those who prefer to let someone else do the bulk of the driving.

Taking the Bus to Crater Lake National Park

There are options for those who want to take a bus to Crater Lake National Park. These bus options vary based on which area you are arriving from.

Some popular bus lines include Greyhound Bus and the Route 60 bus from Rogue Valley Transportation. Greyhound takes guests from Portland to Medford, and the Route 60 bus takes guests from Klamath Falls to Crater Lake Avenue.

Bottom Line: Taking a bus will lengthen your journey as there are many stops along the way, but it’s an excellent option for those who would rather not drive their vehicle to Crater Lake National Park.

There are several options for getting around Crater Lake National Park. The best option for navigating around the park is to use your vehicle. Other options, such as trolley tours and boat tours, are seasonally available. The National Park Service offers printable and interactive maps on its website to help guests map their itinerary.

It is important to note that cell phone service is extremely limited in and near Crater Lake National Park . A printed map or GPS device is essential to pack with you when visiting the park.

Another interesting bit of information is that the park doesn’t have a physical street address, which makes arriving a bit tricky if you are driving yourself. The best thing to do is to enter Rim Village as your destination or use the coordinates for Crater Lake National Park.

Crater Lake National Park has something for every adventurer. There’s no shortage of activities, from cycling to birdwatching to amazing hikes and unique rock formations. Let’s discover the incredible opportunities for visitors to Crater Lake National Park.

Cyclists enjoy visiting Crater National Park and especially love riding the scenic Rim Drive. Each year more and more bicyclists come to ride around this beautiful park. Rim Drive is the most popular route for cyclists. This drive is 33 miles long and can be strenuous at times.

There are also several hazards for driving cycling this road, including steep, downhill sections, rocks, animals, and narrow roads without shoulders. While cycling through Crater Lake National Park is quite a feat, it is an adventure in which people from around the world enjoy participating.

Birdwatching

Over 250 species of birds have been found in Crater Lake National Park. This large number of birds makes birdwatching a popular activity for park guests of all ages and stages in life.

Each Tuesday morning during the summer, the Crater Lake National Park and Klamath Bird Observatory offer a bird banding demonstration where visitors can learn about the birds and their ecology and how data is collected for long-term conservation monitoring.

Guests can also see birds up close during these presentations. Popular species of birds in this park include the bald eagle, osprey, kingfisher, and American white pelicans. These fascinating birds are spotted in many areas around the park, including around the lake, on several of the trails, and on the caldera.

Boat and Trolley Tours

During the summer months, boat and trolley tours are available for an exciting view of Crater Lake National Park. These daily boat tours feature a park ranger who tells about the park and lake. The tour circles the caldera and highlights the incredible features of the park.

The Crater Lake Trolley offers daily park tours from July to September. This transportation service allows guests to sit back and enjoy the scenery of Crater Lake National Park.

The trolley traverses the 33-mile Rim Drive and makes 7 stops at popular overlooks in the park. A ranger rides along on the trolley, shares information about the park, and invites passengers to participate in trivia and commentary.

Cleetwood Cove Trail

For those wanting a closer view of Crater Lake, Cleetwood Cove Trail provides a close encounter with the beauty of the lake. Cleetwood Cove Trail is a steep, strenuous hike over a mile long. The trail ends on the shore of Crater Lake. Cleetwood Trail is the only permitted way to access the shore of Crater Lake. Many activities are available on the lake, such as boat tours, swimming, and fishing.

Fishermen enjoy visiting Crater Lake National Park to fish in the pristine lake and flowing streams. There hasn’t been any evidence of native fish from Crater Lake, but from 1888 to 1941, the lake was stocked with 7 different types of fish. Two of those types of fish still thrive today, and the rest, unfortunately, do not.

An estimated 60,000 Kokanee salmon and rainbow trout currently make their home in the lake. There are also several streams in the park that are open for fishing and 2 that are closed in order to protect and preserve the native bull trout found in Crater Lake National Park.

Hiking Trails

There are 26 hiking trails for adventurers to trek in Crater Lake National Park. These trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous, and each course begins at 4,000 feet in elevation. It is important to remember that the weather is unique in Crater Lake National Park, and to be prepared for snowy and icy trails from December to June.

Picnicking in the Park

A great way to rest and refuel while enjoying the beauty of Crater Lake National Park is to pause for a bit and set up a picnic in the park. Crater Lake  has 4 picnic areas , including Goodbye Picnic Area, Lodgepole, Annie Falls, and the Ponderosa picnic area.

Bottom Line: These picnic areas are surrounded by the gorgeous trees and wildflowers in the park and are often visited by the wildlife that makes their home in Crater Lake National Park.

Ranger Programs

Ranger programs are offered during the winter and summer seasons at Crater Lake National Park. These programs are an excellent way to learn about and experience the park.

The summer programs typically begin in late June and continue through the middle of September. The winter ranger programs are exciting, with ranger-guided snowshoe walks being offered from late November through April.

There are even ranger programs available for youth ages 6 to 12. The junior ranger program provides opportunities for young visitors to learn about the Crater Lake area’s history, geology, and culture and earn badges once they complete various activities and challenges.

For those hoping to learn about the ranger programs, each visitor center offers a schedule of when and where these events take place.

Rim Village Walking Tour

The Rim Village Walking Tour is a self-guided walking tour that takes park visitors through the historic Rim Village district.

This tour skirts the caldera’s rim, and it takes about 3 hours to get the whole experience. Some major points of interest along the way include Kiser Studio, the Crater Lake Natural History Association Bookstore, and the Crater Lake Lodge area.

Participating in the Rim Village Walking tour is an ideal way to learn about and experience Crater Lake National Park.

Scenic Rim Drive

The Scenic Rim Drive is a 33-mile drive that showcases some of the most amazing places in Crater Lake National Park. The road provides access to 30 different overlooks throughout the park, 5 picnic areas, trailheads for many hikes, waterfalls, and incredible rock formations. The park system recommends a minimum of 2 hours to drive this scenic road.

Visitor Centers

There are 2 visitor centers located in Crater Lake National Park : Rim Visitor Center and Steel Visitor Center.

Rim Visitor Center

Rim Visitor Center is located in Rim Village in the historic Kiser Studio. Rangers are stationed at this visitor center and are eager to help guests with any questions or even help with planning their trip. Several exhibits about the park’s history, culture, and geology are set up for visitors to learn about Crater Lake National Park. Rim Visitor Center offers stunning views of Crater Lake, a gift shop, and picnic areas.

Steel Visitor Center

Steel Visitor Center is a great place to stop while visiting Crater Lake National Park. This visitor center offers access to the Lady of the Woods Trail and connects to the Castle Crest Trail. This visitor center features a ranger station where rangers happily answer questions about the park, several exhibits, a 25-minute film, and a gift shop.

Winter Activities

Crater Lake National Park receives an average of 42 feet of snow annually. The park offers exciting opportunities for winter adventure , including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ranger-guided snowshoe walks, and snowmobiling.

Snow covers the park from November to May and sometimes even in October and June, which is great for adventurers at Crater Lake National Park. Visitors have an abundance of opportunities to participate in an endless list of winter activities.

Crater Lake National Park is open year-round, so you can essentially plan a visit to this national park anytime. There are many times throughout the year when certain areas and attractions throughout the park are closed down or inaccessible. Planning ahead is essential in order to check all the sights and activities off your must-see list during your trip to Crater Lake National Park.

Best Time to Visit Crater Lake National Park in the Winter

Visiting Crater Lake National Park in the winter is a magical experience. The park is bustling with thrilling winter activities and covered in a sparkling blanket of snow. The best time to visit this park for winter beauty and excitement is from mid-March to mid-April. This time frame provides breathtaking views of the giant snowbanks near Rim Village.

Hot Tip: There are fewer snowstorms during winter, and the days are longer, which means the skies are visitors can appreciate clear and spectacular views of the lake.

Best Time To Visit Crater Lake National Park To Avoid the Crowds

For those wanting to visit Crater Lake National Park and avoid crowds, an excellent time to visit is the month of September. In September, the number of summer visitors has decreased, and the park is typically much less crowded with school being back in session.

Another perk of visiting in September is that fall is beginning to make its appearance in the park. The weather is ideal, and fewer crowds make September a perfect time to visit Crater Lake National Park.

Best Time To Visit Crater Lake National Park in the Summer

Mid-July is an incredible time to visit Crater Lake National Park in the summer. By mid-July, the snow has finally melted, animals are migrating back to the area or coming out of hibernation, wildflowers are blooming, and all the roads and facilities are open. Visiting Crater Lake National Park in mid-July will be a magical experience to remember for ages.

Cheapest Time To Visit Crater Lake National Park

For those who want to visit Crater Lake National Park and save money simultaneously, the best time to visit is from mid- to late September.

The heavy crowds are fewer at this time of the year due to school going back in session. Flight rates and lodging prices are also lower at this time of year, making it a great time to visit Crater Lake National Park while being mindful of your budget.

Annual Events in Crater Lake National Park

Many events take place in Crater Lake National Park throughout the year. Whether you are interested in running a marathon, cycling through the park, or doing service projects, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s look at some of the events offered in Crater Lake National Park.

Crater Lake Rim Run

Crater Lake Rim Run is an annual event in crater national Park each August. This event brings visitors from all over the U.S. and provides a unique, remarkable way to experience the park. The Crater Lake Rim Run is a 6.7-mile run/walk, 13.1-mile run, and 26.2-mile run around the rim of Crater Lake National Park. This run has been taking place for over 45 years.

Ride the Rim

Ride the Rim is an event that takes place each year in September. This event is hosted by Crater Lake National Park, Friends of Crater Lake, and Discover Klamath Visitor and Convention Bureau. Ride the Rim is a 2-day event for cyclists, runners, or walkers who enjoy adventure and nature. This free event takes place on 2 separate weekends in September in Crater Lake National Park.

Project Weekend

Project Weekend takes place each year in August at Crater Lake National Park. This is one of the most popular events for volunteers in the park. Those visiting the park during Project Weekend can camp, enjoy delicious foods, and participate in service-based projects to help care for Crater Lake National Park.

Participating in Project Weekend is a great way to enjoy the beauty of Crater Lake and make a positive impact so that others can enjoy visiting this park.

There are many accommodation options for those planning to visit Crater Lake National Park. The park has several choices for lodging on its property, and there are several towns surrounding the park that offer even more options. From primitive camping adventures to luxury resorts, there is something for every traveler who comes to Crater Lake National Park.

Inside the Park

There are 2 options for lodging inside Crater Lake National Park. Crater Lake Lodge and the Cabins at Mazama Village are 2 facilities managed by Crater Lake Hospitality . These options have cabins and standard rooms available for guests throughout the year.

Other options for lodging in the camp include staying in one of the campgrounds on the property. Lost Creek Campground and Mazama Campground are 2 popular choices for camping enthusiasts.

For campers that prefer a more rustic and primitive experience, there are several backcountry camping sites throughout the park. Let’s explore the different options for staying in Crater Lake National Park.

Backcountry Camping

There is an abundance of backcountry campsites available in Crater Lake National Park. More than 95% of this park is managed as wilderness. There are options for camping in the summer months from June to September and all winter camping opportunities from October to May.

Backcountry camping permits are required year-round for any overnight trip in the park. These permits can be obtained from the ranger station at the park headquarters. This ranger station is 100 yards from the Steel Visitor Center.

Backcountry camping permits are free of charge, and those who plan to camp in the backcountry areas must have a valid park entrance pass for their trip.

The Cabins at Mazama Village

The Cabins at Mazama Village are situated in an old-growth forest of lodgepole pines. This rustic lodging facility offers modern conveniences to those who stay here.

The property consists of 10 cabins, each with 4 separate rooms. Other amenities include an amphitheater, camp store, and café near the village. This lodging option is open from late May to September.

Crater Lake Lodge

Crater Lake Lodge is a historic lodge surrounded by sub-alpine meadows and forests nearly 1,000 feet above Crater Lake. This lodge initially opened in 1915 and was reconstructed in 1995.

Crater Lake Lodge features 71 rooms, with several of those rooms showcasing incredible views of the lake , Rim Village, or the beautiful landscape that makes up Crater Lake National Park. This lodge is open from the middle of May to early October.

Lost Creek Campground

Lost Creek Campground typically opens early in June and closes in mid-October. This campground is considered primitive by many because there’s no water or other utilities available.

Lost Creek Campground offers 16 sites for those who are tent camping. Registration takes place on a self-service basis on the day of arrival. Campsites fill up quickly in this campground, so if you want to be sure to have a spot, it’s essential to arrive early.

Mazama Campground

Mazama Campground is open only during the summer, from June through September. This campground is in an old-growth forest at 6,000 feet in elevation.

Mazama Campground offers 214 sites with picnic tables, bear-resistant food lockers, and a fire ring. There are also seasonal flush toilets and coin-operated showers available. These sites are perfect for tent camping or for those using an RV or camper. Other features of this campground include a dump station, a camp store, and an amphitheater.

Towns Near Crater Lake National Park

Several towns surround Crater Lake National Park and make excellent choices for setting up a base camp during your national park vacation. Whether you are looking for excitement and entertainment or a peaceful place to retreat, these towns have a solution for everyone.

Ashland has a variety of opportunities waiting for every visitor. Ashland is home to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and the gateway to Rogue Wine Country .

Guests enjoy the world-class theater, wineries, hiking trails, and fine dining in Ashland. Lodging accommodations are plenty, with a plethora of charming bed and breakfasts throughout the town. This city is an hour and 45 minutes away from Crater Lake National Park, but well worth the drive.

Prospect is about 37 miles from Crater Lake National Park. This city is centered around the notorious Prospect Historic Hotel .

Prospect has an impressive list of restaurants serving everything from freshly-caught seafood to artisan desserts. With local wineries and breweries, a host of cultural events, and a host of bed and breakfasts, resorts, and boutique hotels, there’s something for every traveler.

Shady Cove is a charming city just an hour from Crater Lake National Park. This city offers incredible access to the Rogue River and a host of outdoor adventures, including snow sports, golfing, boating, and watersports.

Bottom Line: There are plenty of dining options and lodging accommodations available for visitors, no matter what type of stay they seek.

There are several dining options for those who want to grab a bite in Crater Lake National Park. Some of these dining options are only open seasonally, but there’s always something available for a meal in the park. Crater Lake Hospitality is the park’s concessioner, and several places can provide you with precisely what you need to refuel and reset and get back out to explore the park.

Annie Creek Restaurant

Annie Creek Restaurant is located in Mazama Village. Annie Creek’s menu includes specialty sandwiches, pizza, soups, vegetarian meals, and local beer on tap. This family-friendly restaurant is open from May to September daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room

Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room is the on-site restaurant at the Crater Lake Lodge. This dining room boasts beautiful views of the lake and is perfect for enjoying a pleasant meal with friends or family.

Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room has a buffet available for breakfast and dinner service, and favorite menu items are the seafood étouffée, the herb-marinated flank steak, and the ratatouille.

The breakfast buffet is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room is open from May to October for breakfast and dinner daily. Reservations are required for those who want to dine here in the evening.

Rim Village Café

Rim Village Café is located near the Crater Lake Lodge. This dining option is ideal for those who need a grab-and-go meal. Rim Village Café provides a delightful light menu of sandwiches, salads, and snacks.

For those who don’t want to take their food on the run, there’s a patio with spectacular views of Crater Lake National Park. Rim Village Café is open daily and serves guests from 10 a.m to 5 p.m.

1. A New National Park Established

Crater Lake National Park was established on May 22, 1902. Crater Lake was America’s sixth national park, following other well-known parks such as Yellowstone , Sequoia , and Yosemite National Parks .

2. Deepest Lake in America

Crater Lake is the deepest lake in America. At its deepest, it measures 1,943 feet deep. This famous lake is striking blue and filled with water directly from the snow or rain. This lake has no other water sources, making it an incredible landlocked lake.

3. Mazama Newt

The Mazama newt is a rough-skinned newt found only in Crater Lake. This amphibian is nicknamed the Crater Lake Newt and is believed to have been around for hundreds of years.

4. Old Man of the Lake

The Old Man of Crater Lake is a massive hemlock that has floated upright in Crater Lake for over 100 years. There are many ideas and beliefs regarding Old Man, from Native American legends to local explanations for this floating phenomenon.

Some believe Old Man is responsible for the weather at the park, while others have more scientific ideas about why it is floating and traveling upright.

This stump doesn’t just stay in one place, either. It floats upright day in and day out, incredibly traveling around the lake. This mystery keeps visitors coming to Crater Lake and trying to understand it more and more.

5. Wizard Island

Wizard Island is an exciting attraction in Crater Lake National Park. It got its name because it resembles a sorcerer’s hat. This island is actually the top of a cinder cone volcano. Visitors are welcome to take a boat tour to explore the island.

6. Phantom Ship

Phantom Ship is a natural rock formation in Crater Lake that resembles a ghost ship. This formation stands 170 feet above the water and is a popular must-see attraction for park visitors.

7. Father of Crater Lake

William Gladstone Steel is known as the Father of Crater Lake. He was an American journalist that spent nearly 2 decades campaigning for Crater Lake to become a national park. William Steel read about Crater Lake as a young child and was able to visit the area in 1885. He set out on a mission to have Crater Lake designated as a national park and was able to see that take place in 1902.

8. Extreme Weather

Crater Lake National Park has extreme weather that is not typical for other parts of the world. From October through June, the park is blanketed with snow, and snowfall has been known to reach up to 42 feet annually. Winter temperatures have dipped into the teens, and summers have reached up to 100 degrees.

9. Castle on the Cliff

A fascinating feature found inside Crater Lake National Park is Pumice Castle . This rock formation is also called Castle Rock, and it is made up of vibrant, orange, and pink volcanic information that looks exactly like a medieval castle. This stunning natural feature is a top attraction at Crater Lake National Park.

10. A Sacred Place

Crater Lake was and still is a sacred place to most Native Americans in Oregon and northern California. The Makalaks, now known as the Klamath Indians, believed if you looked at Crater Lake, it would lead to death. Many Native American groups still won’t look at Crater Lake because of these beliefs.

11. A Surplus of Wildlife

Crater Lake National Park is home to an abundance of animals . Over 70 species of mammals can be found in the park, including elk, deer, black bears, squirrels, and the adorable pika.

Besides the variety of mammals, several fish, amphibians, birds, and invertebrates make their home in the park. Some noteworthy animals found in Crater Lake National Park include the coastal-tailed frog, 3-toed woodpeckers, and the red fox.

Crater Lake National Park is a remarkable place filled with beauty, wonder, and mystery. No matter what type of adventure you are seeking, you can find everything you are looking for and more at Crater Lake National Park. Visiting this national park will surely leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

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Circumnavigating Crater Lake in Winter Is the Ultimate Snowy Adventure

With an average of 43 feet of snow per year, crater lake is one of the best places to sample winter..

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In  Superlative Hikes, we search out the biggest, wettest, and beariest trails in America.

Don’t let winter in Crater Lake scare you off. Sure, the 183,224-acre national park receives 44 feet of snow annually. But all that powder—along with a sturdy pair of snowshoes and some avalanche awareness—is your backstage pass to a Southern Cascades few hikers ever see.

The fourth season at Crater Lake redefines solitude (only 115 backcountry overnight permits were issued from December to May 2007), and locals say the area’s trophy trip, a 33-mile circumnavigation of the lake, is the best multiday loop in the Pacific Northwest. Crank it out clockwise, and you’ll cross open meadows teeming with pine martens, wind through hemlock forests draped in ice, and see the lake from every possible angle. (Keep a safe distance from overhanging snow cornices, draping the caldera’s rim like frosting on a surrealist cake.) You can complete it in three moderately strenuous days, but pack an extra day’s food and fuel just in case. (One thing you likely won’t see: a frozen lake. The last time the 1,943-foot-deep lake froze completely over was in 1949; it stores a large amount of summer’s heat, while windy surface conditions and relatively mild air temperatures keep the surface from icing.)

Leave your car at Rim Village, your last chance to use a sheltered loo. Then follow the gently graded Hemlock Trail west until it hooks up with an unplowed section of Rim Road. Continue west for 3.8 miles to Watchman Overlook, the turnaround point for day-trippers. Looking south across the crater and the startlingly blue lake, you’ll see the white pyramids of Mt. McLoughlin, Union Peak, and, on the clearest days, California’s 14,162-foot Mt. Shasta.

From Watchman, turn north, and head down a moderate slope to Wizard Island Viewpoint for a vantage as airy as any quidditch player spied. (Check out the 800-foot cinder cone rising from the west side of the lake.) As you continue on to North Junction, you’ll pass through the first of a few avalanche-prone sections. Exercise caution and come prepared with beacons, probes, and shovels. An avy report and detailed maps of any bypasses come with your backcountry permit. Camping choices are endless, but for the best wind protection, pick Cleetwood Cove, 10.7 miles from Rim Village.

After breakfast, head south out of Cleetwood. A fresh snowfall is common, making the surrounding pines look candy-coated. As you gain elevation the park’s highpoint, 8,900-foot Mt. Scott comes into view. The trail zigzags along the rim, then skirts Scott’s base. At 21 miles, the road splits. Take the left fork toward Kerr Notch, and plan to camp here. You’ll have upper-deck views of Phantom Rock, a tiny island bathed in alpenglow.

Mellower route-finding and terrain make day three a cruise. As you near Sun Notch, a popular day trip east of Rim Village, ski and snowshoe tracks signal your reentry to civilization. After passing ice-encrusted Vidae Cliff and the turn-off to Crater Peak, you’ll enjoy a mile-and-a-half downhill before the last big climb back to Rim Village.

How to Get to Crater Lake National Park

From Medford, OR, take OR 62 north and west 65 miles to the park’s south entrance at Munson Valley Road.

Available at the visitors’ center (open 8 a.m.-4 p.m.) up to 1 day in advance.

Last updated December 10, 2021

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The Complete Guide To Visiting Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Published: September 10, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Murial Huss

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips
• National Parks
• outdoor activities

Introduction

Welcome to Crater Lake National Park, a natural wonder nestled in the heart of Oregon. This breathtaking destination is known worldwide for its stunningly deep blue lake, which is formed within the caldera of an ancient volcano. Crater Lake, with its serene waters surrounded by towering cliffs and rugged forests, offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Crater Lake National Park is a place of immense beauty and geological significance. It was established in 1902 and is the fifth-oldest national park in the United States. The park spans over 180,000 acres and encompasses not only the remarkable lake but also a variety of ecosystems, including old-growth forests, alpine meadows, and unique volcanic features.

Visiting Crater Lake National Park is a journey into the past, as the lake itself was formed approximately 7,700 years ago when the volcanic Mount Mazama collapsed. The resulting caldera subsequently filled with rain and snowmelt, creating one of the deepest lakes in the world. With its pristine waters and breathtaking scenery, Crater Lake has become an iconic landmark of the Pacific Northwest.

Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking tranquility amidst nature’s wonders, Crater Lake National Park has something to offer. From hiking and camping to scenic drives and boat tours, there are countless opportunities to explore and immerse yourself in this awe-inspiring natural environment.

This guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit to Crater Lake National Park. From the best time to visit and activities to enjoy, to nearby attractions and safety tips, we have you covered. So grab your backpack, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure at Crater Lake National Park!

History of Crater Lake National Park

The history of Crater Lake National Park is deeply rooted in the geological events that shaped the region. Approximately 7,700 years ago, the massive volcanic Mount Mazama stood tall in what is now southern Oregon. However, a violent eruption occurred, causing the volcano to collapse and form a deep caldera.

Over centuries, rain and snowmelt filled the caldera, eventually creating Crater Lake. Native American tribes, including the Klamath and Modoc, lived in the area for thousands of years and regarded the lake as a sacred place. The Klamath Tribe referred to it as “giiwas” or “spiritual place.”

The first recorded sighting of Crater Lake by non-indigenous explorers was in 1853 when a hunting party led by John Wesley Hillman stumbled upon the lake. Captain Clarence Dutton, a geologist, explored the area in 1886 and recognized the geological significance of the caldera.

In 1902, President Theodore Roosevelt signed a bill establishing Crater Lake National Park, making it the fifth national park in the United States. The park’s boundaries were expanded in later years to protect the natural and cultural resources within the area.

Throughout the years, efforts have been made to preserve Crater Lake’s unique ecosystem and promote scientific research. The park has served as an outdoor laboratory for studying volcanic activity, geology, and ecology. Scientists continue to study the lake’s water chemistry, volcanic formations, and the impacts of climate change on the park’s ecosystem.

Today, Crater Lake National Park is not only a destination for outdoor enthusiasts but also an important site for education and preservation. The park offers visitor centers, interpretive programs, and exhibits that provide insights into the geologic events that created the lake and the cultural significance it holds for Native American tribes.

As you explore Crater Lake National Park, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and natural wonders that make this place truly special. From its volcanic origins to its sacred status among Native American tribes, Crater Lake is a testament to the power and beauty of nature.

Getting to Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is located in southern Oregon and can be accessed by various means of transportation. Here is a guide to help you plan your journey to this stunning natural wonder.

By Car: The most common way to reach Crater Lake is by car. The park is located approximately 80 miles northeast of Medford, Oregon, and 60 miles south of Bend, Oregon. From Medford, you can take Highway 62 north, and from Bend, you can take Highway 97 south. Both routes will lead you to the park’s entrance.

By Air: If you prefer to fly, the closest major airports to Crater Lake National Park are the Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) and the Eugene Airport (EUG). From either airport, you can rent a car or arrange for transportation to the park.

By Train or Bus: While there is no direct train or bus service to Crater Lake National Park, you can take an Amtrak train or a Greyhound bus to the nearby cities of Klamath Falls or Medford. From there, you can rent a car or arrange for a guided tour to the park.

Shuttle Services: During the summer months, shuttle services operate within Crater Lake National Park, offering transportation between various points of interest. These shuttles provide a convenient option for visitors who prefer not to drive or navigate the park’s narrow and winding roads.

Once you arrive at Crater Lake National Park, you will need to pay an entrance fee, which grants you access to the park for up to seven consecutive days. The fee varies depending on the season and the type of vehicle you are driving.

It is important to note that the park’s main road, known as Rim Drive, is closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall. It typically opens in July and remains accessible until early November, weather permitting. Therefore, if you plan to visit during the winter, it is essential to check road conditions and make necessary arrangements in advance.

Now that you know how to get to Crater Lake National Park, it’s time to embark on your adventure. Pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder.

Best Time to Visit

Crater Lake National Park offers a unique experience with each changing season. The park’s accessibility and activities vary throughout the year, so choosing the right time to visit is important. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons and the best time to plan your trip.

Summer (June to September): Summer is the peak tourist season at Crater Lake National Park. During this time, all facilities and services in the park are open, including the visitor centers, campgrounds, and boat tours. The weather is generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 27 degrees Celsius). The roads are clear of snow, and Rim Drive, the 33-mile scenic route around the lake, is fully accessible. July and August tend to be the busiest months, so expect larger crowds during these times. However, with the increased visitors also come longer daylight hours and a vibrant atmosphere.

Fall (October to November): Fall brings beautiful foliage to the park, with the surrounding forests turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. The park tends to be less crowded during this time, offering a more tranquil experience to visitors. However, as fall progresses, snowfall becomes more frequent, and road closures, including Rim Drive, are possible. It’s essential to check road conditions and plan accordingly. Despite the changing weather, fall is a fantastic time to capture stunning photographs of the lake in a colorful autumn backdrop.

Winter (December to March): Crater Lake National Park transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months. Heavy snowfall blankets the landscape, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. The park receives an average of 43 feet of snow per year, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are popular activities in designated areas. However, access to most areas of the park is restricted, and Rim Drive is closed due to snow and icy conditions. If you plan to visit during winter, be prepared for cold temperatures, limited services, and always check for road closures and weather conditions before heading out.

Spring (April to May): Spring brings a transition period to Crater Lake National Park. Melting snow and warming temperatures lead to the gradual reopening of facilities and roads. While snow is still present at higher elevations, lower elevation trails may be accessible. Springtime also offers quieter crowds compared to the busy summer months. It’s important to note that the weather can be unpredictable during this time, with occasional snowstorms and road closures. Flexibility and preparedness are key if you decide to visit in the spring.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Crater Lake National Park depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience. Summer offers the most accessibility and activities, while winter showcases a breathtaking snowy landscape. Fall and spring provide quieter, more serene visits. Consider your interests and plan accordingly to make the most of your time in this natural wonder.

Activities in Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top activities to experience during your visit to Crater Lake National Park.

Scenic Drives: Crater Lake is renowned for its breathtaking views, and there is no better way to experience them than by taking a scenic drive along Rim Drive. The 33-mile loop road offers numerous viewpoints and overlooks where you can marvel at the deep blue lake and surrounding volcanic landscape. The drive is particularly spectacular during the summer months when the road is fully accessible.

Hiking: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the numerous trails that wind through the park’s diverse landscapes. From leisurely strolls to challenging treks, there are options for all levels of hikers. Popular hikes include the Cleetwood Cove Trail, which leads down to the lake’s shore, and the Wizard Island Trail, which takes you to the top of a volcanic island within the lake.

Boat Tours: Embark on a boat tour to truly appreciate the grandeur of Crater Lake. The Cleetwood Cove Trail leads you to the lake’s edge, where you can board a boat for a guided tour around the lake. These tours offer a unique perspective and provide insights into the lake’s geological formation and the history of the park.

Photography: Crater Lake is a photographer’s paradise, with jaw-dropping vistas and ever-changing lighting conditions. Bring your camera and capture the beauty of the lake and its surroundings from various angles and viewpoints. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to capture the stunning colors reflecting off the water.

Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for the diverse array of wildlife that call the park home. Crater Lake National Park is home to a variety of animals, including deer, elk, black bears, and several species of birds. Wildlife can often be spotted along hiking trails, near meadows, and around the lake’s rim. Remember to observe them from a safe distance and respect their natural habitat.

Ranger Programs: Enhance your understanding of the park’s natural and cultural history by participating in ranger-led programs. These educational and interactive sessions cover a range of topics, including geology, wildlife, and Native American heritage. Check the park’s visitor center for the schedule of programs during your visit.

Winter Sports: During the winter months, Crater Lake National Park becomes a playground for snow enthusiasts. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are popular activities in designated areas. The park’s stunning snow-covered landscapes provide a serene and tranquil experience.

These are just a few of the activities you can enjoy during your visit to Crater Lake National Park. Remember to plan ahead, be prepared for varying weather conditions, and always follow park regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Hiking Trails

Crater Lake National Park offers a diverse range of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the park’s natural wonders up close. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a challenging trek, there’s a trail to suit every level of hiker. Here are some of the top hiking trails in Crater Lake National Park:

Cleetwood Cove Trail: This is the only trail that provides access to the shore of Crater Lake. The 1.1-mile (1.8 km) round trip trail descends steeply to the lake’s edge, offering breathtaking views along the way. At the bottom, you can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Crater Lake or join a boat tour to explore the lake further.

Watchman Peak Trail: This moderate 1.6-mile (2.6 km) hike takes you to the summit of Watchman Peak, offering panoramic views of Crater Lake. The trail winds through juniper and pine forests, ascending to the historic fire lookout tower. From the top, you can witness the magnificent sunrise or sunset over the lake, making it a popular photography spot.

Garfield Peak Trail: For a more challenging hike, head to Garfield Peak. This 3.4-mile (5.5 km) round trip trail ascends 1,000 feet (305 meters) to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Crater Lake and the surrounding peaks. The trail is steep and can be strenuous, but the breathtaking vistas make it worth the effort.

Wizard Island Trail: If you’re up for an adventure, take a boat tour to Wizard Island, a volcanic island within Crater Lake, and hike up to its summit. The 2.2-mile (3.5 km) round trip trail is steep but offers an incredible view of the lake from above. You can also spend some time exploring the island’s unique natural features.

Plaikni Falls Trail: This easy 2-mile (3.2 km) hike takes you through lush meadows and old-growth forests to the picturesque Plaikni Falls. The trail is wheelchair-accessible and offers a tranquil escape with the soothing sound of the waterfall and an abundance of wildflowers in the spring and summer months.

Annie Creek Canyon Trail: Follow this gentle, 1.7-mile (2.7 km) loop trail as it winds through Annie Creek Canyon, showcasing stunning views of volcanic formations and a cascading creek. The trail is a great option for families and provides opportunities for bird-watching and nature observation.

When hiking in Crater Lake National Park, it’s important to come prepared with proper gear, including sturdy footwear, water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers of clothing. Check weather conditions and trail conditions at the visitor center before setting out, as some trails may be closed or difficult to navigate due to snow or maintenance.

Remember to stay on designated trails, respect the park’s fragile ecosystem, and pack out any trash you bring in. By being a responsible hiker, you can help preserve the beauty of Crater Lake for future generations to enjoy.

Wildlife and Nature

Crater Lake National Park is not only known for its stunning lake, but also for its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems. As you explore the park, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter a variety of wildlife and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Wildlife: Crater Lake National Park is home to a range of animal species, both big and small. Keep an eye out for deer, elk, and black bears as they roam through the forests and meadows. Watch for the elusive bobcat or the playful antics of squirrels and chipmunks. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy spotting species such as the Stellar’s jay, Clark’s nutcracker, and the peregrine falcon soaring through the skies above the lake.

Old-Growth Forests: The park’s old-growth forests provide a haven for plant and animal life. Wander through towering stands of Douglas fir, mountain hemlock, and whitebark pine. Marvel at the moss-covered trees, lichens, and delicate wildflowers that blanket the forest floor. These ancient trees offer a glimpse into the untouched wilderness that once covered this region.

Meadows and Wildflowers: During the spring and summer months, Crater Lake National Park’s meadows burst into a sea of vibrant wildflowers. Lupines, Indian paintbrush, and asters are just a few of the species that paint the landscape with their brilliant colors. These meadows provide important habitat for pollinators and are a photographer’s dream come true.

Geology: Crater Lake itself is an awe-inspiring example of nature’s power. Formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama thousands of years ago, the deep blue lake is a result of rain and snowmelt that have filled the caldera over time. The surrounding volcanic formations, such as the Pinnacles and Phantom Ship, offer a glimpse into the forces that shaped this unique landscape.

Star Gazing: With limited light pollution, Crater Lake National Park provides an ideal setting for stargazing. On clear nights, the stars shine brightly across the sky, creating a mesmerizing display. Join a ranger-led astronomy program or simply lay back and admire the celestial beauty above.

When exploring Crater Lake National Park, it’s important to remember that you are a guest in the animals’ natural habitat. Keep a safe distance from wildlife, never approach or feed them, and observe from a distance with binoculars or a camera. Leave no trace by taking your trash with you and staying on designated trails to preserve the fragile ecosystem.

By appreciating the wildlife and nature found in Crater Lake National Park, you’ll develop a deeper connection with the environment and gain a greater appreciation for the importance of conservation.

Camping and Accommodations

If you want to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Crater Lake National Park, camping is a fantastic option. The park offers several camping options, ranging from developed campgrounds to backcountry camping. Additionally, there are alternative accommodations available for visitors who prefer more comfort. Here are the camping and accommodation options in Crater Lake National Park:

Developed Campgrounds: The park has two developed campgrounds, Mazama Campground and Lost Creek Campground. Mazama Campground is located near the park’s south entrance and offers over 200 sites with picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms. Lost Creek Campground is situated near the north entrance and provides a more rustic camping experience with 16 sites, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Both campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s advisable to arrive early, especially during the peak summer months.

Backcountry Camping: For those seeking a more secluded experience, backcountry camping is permitted in Crater Lake National Park. Permits are required and can be obtained at the Steel Visitor Center. There are designated camping areas along the park’s backpacking trails, allowing you to truly connect with the untouched wilderness. Be prepared to pack in all your supplies and follow Leave No Trace principles to ensure minimal impact on the environment.

Lodges and Cabins: If camping isn’t your preferred style, there are alternative accommodations available within and near the park. Crater Lake Lodge, located on the rim of the lake, offers rustic charm and stunning lake views. This historic lodge provides comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a gift shop. Nearby, in the Rim Village area, you’ll find the Cabins at Mazama Village, which offer a more modern and private lodging experience.

Nearby Accommodations: Outside the park boundaries, there are additional lodging options available in the nearby towns of Klamath Falls and Medford. These cities provide a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, cabins, and vacation rentals. Staying outside the park allows for more flexibility in terms of amenities and services.

It’s important to note that camping and lodging options in Crater Lake National Park can fill up quickly, especially during the summer season. Reservations are highly recommended, and it’s advisable to plan ahead to secure your preferred dates and accommodations.

No matter where you choose to stay, camping or in alternative accommodations, you’ll have the opportunity to fully experience the tranquility and beauty of Crater Lake National Park. Savor the crisp mountain air, gaze at the star-filled night sky, and wake up to the breathtaking views that surround you.

Visitor Centers and Facilities

Crater Lake National Park provides a range of visitor centers and facilities to enhance your experience and provide valuable information about the park’s natural and cultural resources. These facilities offer educational exhibits, ranger programs, and essential services to ensure a memorable visit. Here are the main visitor centers and facilities in Crater Lake National Park:

Steel Visitor Center: Located near the park’s south entrance, the Steel Visitor Center serves as the main information hub for visitors. Here, you’ll find exhibits about the park’s geology, history, and ecology. Knowledgeable park rangers are available to answer questions, provide trail maps, and offer guidance on planning your activities. The visitor center also has a bookstore where you can purchase books, maps, and souvenirs related to Crater Lake.

Rim Village Visitor Center: Situated in the Rim Village area, this visitor center offers stunning panoramic views of Crater Lake. Exhibits showcase the park’s natural and cultural history, including the formation of the lake and Native American heritage. Park rangers provide interpretive talks and guided walks, providing insights into the unique characteristics of the park’s ecosystem. The visitor center is also home to a gift shop where you can find unique souvenirs and locally made crafts.

Mazama Village: Located near the park’s south entrance, Mazama Village serves as a basecamp for visitors and offers essential amenities. It features a campground, a general store, gift shops, a gas station, and a seasonal restaurant. The camping area includes tent sites, RV sites, and cabins, providing a convenient option for those who prefer to stay within the park.

Cleetwood Cove: At the lake’s edge, Cleetwood Cove serves as the departure point for the boat tours offered in Crater Lake. It provides restrooms, picnic areas, and a small beach where visitors can enjoy the lake’s pristine waters before boarding the boats. It’s important to note that the trail leading to Cleetwood Cove is steep and requires careful footing.

Roads and Scenic Overlooks: The park features Rim Drive, a 33-mile scenic road that circles the lake and offers stunning viewpoints at various locations. These overlooks provide easy access to breathtaking vistas, allowing you to capture the beauty of Crater Lake from different perspectives. Several pullouts and parking areas along Rim Drive make it convenient for visitors to stop and take in the scenery.

Restrooms and Picnic Areas: Throughout the park, you’ll find restrooms and designated picnic areas, allowing you to take a break and enjoy a meal while surrounded by the park’s natural beauty. These facilities are conveniently located near popular viewpoints, trailheads, and visitor centers.

By taking advantage of these visitor centers and facilities, you can gain a deeper understanding of Crater Lake National Park’s natural wonders and make the most of your visit. Remember to check the operating hours of the visitor centers and plan your activities accordingly, as some facilities may have limited availability during certain times of the year.

Nearby Attractions

While Crater Lake National Park is the star attraction of the region, there are several other notable attractions nearby that you may want to explore during your visit. From natural wonders to cultural landmarks, here are some of the top nearby attractions to consider:

Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest: Adjacent to Crater Lake National Park, the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Explore its lush forests, hike its scenic trails, go fishing in the wild and scenic Rogue River, or enjoy a leisurely drive along the beautiful Cascade-Siskiyou Scenic Byway.

Mount Thielsen Wilderness: Situated east of Crater Lake, the Mount Thielsen Wilderness is known for its stunning peak that resembles a towering pinnacle. Hikers can tackle the challenging trail to reach the summit of Mount Thielsen, where they’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Wood River Wetland: Located south of Crater Lake, the Wood River Wetland is a must-visit for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. This diverse wetland habitat is home to a wide variety of waterfowl, including herons, pelicans, egrets, and ducks. Explore the trails and boardwalks that wind through the wetland, offering prime birdwatching opportunities.

Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuges: Just a short drive south of Crater Lake, the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuges provide a haven for diverse bird species and other wildlife. Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge and Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge offer opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife photography, and educational programs.

Collier Memorial State Park: Located northwest of Crater Lake, Collier Memorial State Park is a scenic park that showcases the region’s logging history. Explore the historic logging museum, picnic in the shady groves, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the nature trails. The park is also home to a campground, making it a great place to spend a night or two.

Historic Jacksonville: Located south of Crater Lake, the charming town of Jacksonville is known for its rich history and well-preserved Victorian-era architecture. Take a leisurely stroll down its charming streets, visit the historic Britt Gardens, explore the Jacksonville Cemetery, and immerse yourself in the town’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

Oregon Caves National Monument: Situated west of Crater Lake, the Oregon Caves National Monument is home to a fascinating labyrinth of marble caves. Take a guided tour to explore the captivating underground passages adorned with intricate rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites.

These nearby attractions complement the beauty of Crater Lake National Park and offer additional opportunities for exploration and adventure. Consider incorporating them into your itinerary to make the most of your visit to this remarkable region of Oregon.

Safety Tips and Guidelines

When visiting Crater Lake National Park, it’s essential to prioritize safety and respect for the natural environment. Here are some important safety tips and guidelines to keep in mind during your visit:

Stay on designated trails: Stick to established trails and pathways to minimize impacts on the fragile ecosystem and reduce the risk of getting lost or injured. Venturing off-trail can harm sensitive flora and disturb wildlife habitats.

Check weather and road conditions: Weather conditions at Crater Lake can change rapidly, particularly during the winter months. Before setting out, check the park’s website or visit a visitor center to get updated information on weather conditions, road closures, and trail conditions.

Bring appropriate gear: Wear proper footwear and dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Carry extra clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water. Be prepared for varying temperatures and possible changes in weather throughout the day.

Be aware of wildlife: Admire wildlife from a safe distance and never feed or approach animals. Respect their natural habitat and maintain a safe distance of at least 100 yards (91 meters) from larger animals such as elk and bears.

Practice Leave No Trace: Help preserve the park’s natural beauty by practicing Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, dispose of waste properly, and leave natural and cultural features undisturbed.

Stay safe on the water: If you plan to participate in water activities such as boating or swimming, always wear a life jacket and follow park guidelines. Crater Lake’s deep, cold waters can be hazardous, and sudden weather changes can create dangerous conditions.

Be cautious of altitude and sun exposure: Crater Lake sits at a high altitude, which may affect individuals who are not acclimated to the elevation. Take precautions to prevent altitude sickness by staying hydrated and taking breaks as needed. Additionally, apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays, as the high elevation can intensify UV exposure.

Respect park regulations: Familiarize yourself with park regulations and follow them at all times. These rules are in place to protect the park’s natural resources and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.

Stay updated on park alerts: Before your visit, check for any park alerts or advisories on the park’s website or by contacting the visitor centers. These alerts may include information on trail closures, dangerous wildlife sightings, or other important updates that could affect your visit.

By following these safety tips and guidelines, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience at Crater Lake National Park. Remember that your safety and the preservation of the park’s natural wonders are paramount, allowing future visitors to continue enjoying the beauty of this extraordinary destination.

Crater Lake National Park is a mesmerizing destination that captivates visitors with its deep blue waters, scenic vistas, and rich natural and cultural history. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking tranquility amidst awe-inspiring landscapes, Crater Lake offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

This comprehensive guide has provided you with valuable information on various aspects of visiting Crater Lake National Park. From the history of the park and the best times to visit, to the activities available and nearby attractions, you now have the tools to plan your adventure and make the most of your time in this remarkable location.

Remember to follow safety tips and guidelines to ensure your well-being and the preservation of the park’s pristine environment. Respect wildlife, stay on designated trails, and practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact and help preserve the fragile ecosystem.

Whether you choose to embark on scenic drives, hike the trails, take a boat tour, or simply soak in the beauty of Crater Lake, this national park offers a journey of discovery and a connection with nature that is truly unparalleled.

So, pack your bags, gather your sense of adventure, and get ready to create lifelong memories in Crater Lake National Park. With its natural wonders, breathtaking landscapes, and the serenity it provides, this Oregon gem is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking tranquility and inspiration amidst the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

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The Quintessential Crater Lake National Park Guide

LAST UPDATED – 2/12/24 – Crater Lake National Park Guide

Travelers from all across the globe travel to the United States each year to enjoy one or many of the country’s amazing national parklands.  Many of these parklands are located to the West of the Mississippi River, which has long acted as a divider between the Eastern and the Western United States. 

Both halves of the United States are wonderful for their own reasons, but it is the Western United States that is world-renowned for its rough wilderness, beautiful landscapes, and diverse range of wildlife.  The Western United States is also where you will find a majority of the country’s national parklands.

While Crater Lake National Park in southern Oregon may not be as well-known as some of the other parks in the Western United States, that doesn’t mean it isn’t every bit as beautiful.  In fact, as lake parks go, they may be the most beautiful in America.  Centered around a deep, water-filled volcanic crater that has formed the deepest lake in North America, Crater Lake is also well-known for its rough wilderness and great hiking and snowshoeing trails. 

If you aren’t into hiking, getting out on the crystal blue waters of Crater Lake to Kayak or going for a swim may be just what you are looking for.  Regardless of what you do when you visit, one thing that won’t be in short supply during your stay is tranquility.

An All-You-Need Crater Lake National Park Guide

In this Crater Lake National Park guide, I am going to give you all of the information you need to plan a successful trip to Crater Lake National Park.  I will review the best times to visit the park and what the top things to see and do are while you are there.  I will also cover where you can stay while you are visiting the park and what other attractions in the area are worth visiting.  With this information in hand, you can be assured that you will get the most out of your visit to one of America’s most beautiful national parks.

Crater Lake National Park Guide Navigation Menu

How to get to crater lake national park.

Crater Lake National Park is located in the Southern part of the state of Oregon, about a three-hour drive from the Pacific coast.  Roughly a three-hour drive from the Pacific Coast, Crater Lake National Park is one of the more remote parks in the Western states but is still close enough to major cities to not be inconvenient to visit.  You get the peace and tranquility that its remoteness brings without being so far away from the large cities where it is hard to get to.

If you are traveling to Crater Lake National Park from outside of Oregon, the closest large city with an airport to fly into is Portland, Oregon.  If you are planning on visiting other parks in California, the cities of Sacramento and San Francisco are also a reasonably short drive away from Crater Lake as well. 

For those who are planning on visiting the Seattle area and the national parks in Washington State, flying into Seattle and driving down to see Crater Lake is a reasonable option.  For information on how long of a drive it is to Crater Lake from various cities in the Western United States, I have included a map for you to review in my Crater Lake National Park guide below.

View Larger Map

Directions to Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is accessible from the South and the West year-round and the North and the Northwest during the warmer months of the year.  If you are traveling to Crater Lake from the South, take Highway 97 to Highway 62 and then to the park’s South Entrance. 

For those visiting from the West, simply follow Highway 62 to the park’s West Entrance.  If you are visiting during the warmer months of the year, the North Entrance of the park is accessible.  To get to the park, leave Interstate 5 just south of Eugene.   

Then, take Highway 58 to Highway 97 to Highway 138.   Finally, follow Highway 138 to the park’s North Entrance.  If the North Entrance is closed (it is seven months of the year), then enter either through the West Entrance or South Entrance.

Top Things to See and Do in Crater Lake

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you will have no trouble finding things to see and do in Crater Lake National Park.  To help you start filling out your itinerary for your trip, I have included a list of my favorite things to see and do in the park for you to review in my Crater Lake National Park guide below.

Drive the Rim Drive

One of the biggest draws of Crater Lake National Park is the absolute beauty of the area.  One of the best ways to see and appreciate the beauty of the park is to drive the rim road around Crater Lake.  In addition to being able to scout out the area before you plan which hikes to take, it is also a great way to quickly see the park and get some great photos of the lake.

If you don’t feel like driving around the rim of Crater Lake, another option that you have is to take one of the park’s trolleys around the rim .  Taking the trolley will free you up to enjoy the scenic trip and get some pictures of the beautiful lake and surrounding area.

Take a Boat Ride to Wizard Island

One of the most famous features within Crater Lake National Park is Wizard Island.  The island makes a great subject for those who are photographing the lake, but if you want to get closer to get some good shots of the island you will have to take a boat.  There are boat tours that will take you out onto Crater Lake and near Wizard Island.  If you are visiting during the busy months of the year, I would try to book your boat tour in advance of your visit.

Hike to the Watchman Peak Trail Overlook

One of my favorite viewpoints at Crater Lake National Park is the Watchman Trail Overlook viewpoint.  The short hike from the road to the overlook is relatively easy, so any visitor should be able to reach the overlook.  Once at the overlook, the stone structure allows you to get up high and get a really great view of Wizard Island and Crater Lake.  Even if you don’t plan on doing much hiking at the park, I would recommend at least stopping at this viewpoint.

Go Snow Shoeing in the Winter

If you are fortunate enough to visit Crater Lake National Park during the winter months, I would strongly recommend that you try your hand at snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.  With some of the best winter trails in the US National Parks system, Crater Lake National Park is a great place to try sports for the first time.  If you don’t have your own snowshoes or cross-country skis, you need not worry.  There are cross-country skis and snowshoes available for rental at the park.

Hike Up Garfield Peak

If you are up for completing a more challenging hike while visiting the park, I would strongly recommend looking at the Garfield Peak hike.  The hike is only 3.4 miles long (out and back), but it does have a decent amount of elevation gain.  The elevation gain is what classifies this hike as a moderately difficult hike.  It isn’t a technical hike that requires scrambling, so if you are in decent shape and have enough time to complete the hike, I would recommend giving it a try because the views from the top are amazing!

Look for Wildlife

In addition to the breathtaking views, Crater Lake National Park also has its fair share of amazing wildlife to see .  There is a wide range of mammals, birds, and amphibians that live within the park.  Some of the larger species that you have a chance of spotting when you visit include elk, black-tailed deer, black bear, mountain lion, and mule deer.  The most likely to be spotted during your visit are the mule deer, which are prevalent throughout the park.

There are also quite a few smaller carnivores that inhabit the park that you might spot during your visit.  These include pine marten, red fox, bobcat, striped skunk, and coyote.  If you keep your eyes peeled, you could spot one of these amazing creatures as you hike or snowshoe.  There is also a good chance that you will spot one of the park’s twelve species of bats that like to roost in trees with thick bark or in rock crevices and caves.

Star Gaze at Night

Because of the relative remoteness of Crater Lake National Park, it is a great place to do some stargazing.  You don’t get the levels of light pollution that you do when you are near big cities, so you can really see quite a few more of the stars in the night sky than you normally would.  Especially if you are planning on camping out by the park, taking some time at night to enjoy the beautiful star-filled sky is a great activity.

When to Visit Crater Lake National Park

When you visit Crater Lake National Park largely depends on what you want to do in the park.  For instance, if you are looking to get into the water, then you will undoubtedly want to visit when the temperatures are the warmest. 

However, if you are interested in snowshoeing on some of the park’s amazing snowshoe trails, then the winter months when snow is on the ground would be ideal for your visit.  To assist you in determining which time of the year is best for your visit, I have included some key weather and attendance information for you to review in my Crater Lake National Park guide below.

Average Temperature (°F)

Temperatures at Crater Lake can get fairly warm during the summer months, with the average high temperature getting above 80 degrees Fahrenheit during July and August.  If you are planning on doing a lot of hiking outdoors, this is something to keep in mind.  On the other hand, the winter months of January through February can see low temperatures that dip below freezing.  The park is beautiful in the winter, but if you don’t like cold temperatures you should steer clear of these months.

In my opinion, the ideal time to visit Crater Lake from a temperature standpoint is during the late spring month of May or the early autumn months of September and October.  During these months the high temperatures aren’t too hot and the low temperatures aren’t too cold.

Average Precipitation (Inches)

If you are into snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, then you will be excited to hear that a majority of the precipitation that Crater Lake National Park gets is during the late autumn and winter months of November through February.  The park gets quite a bit of snow during these months, which is why it is considered one of the best snowshoeing and cross-country skiing parks in the United States.

If you are planning on visiting during the warmer months and would like to stay dry, then I would suggest visiting during the summer months of July and August or the early autumn months of September and October.  The spring months of March through May can get a fair amount of rain, so they aren’t the ideal months to visit if you are planning on doing a lot of hiking within the park.

Average Visitors (1,000 visitors Per Day)

When visiting any national park in the United States, it is important to understand how many other visitors will likely be at the park when you are planning to visit.  At most parks, the amount of parking, campgrounds, and other services are limited.  If you look at the average attendance for Crater Lake National Park throughout the year, it starts out small and then builds throughout the year.  This means that the best times to have the park to yourself are in the early months of the year.

If you are planning on visiting to go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, then you will practically have the park to yourself in January or February.  However, if you are planning on visiting when the weather is warmer to do some hiking, visiting in the summer or autumn months could leave you battling with large crowds.  The early spring months are much better from an attendance standpoint at Crater Lake National Park, which is another factor that you should consider when deciding when it would be best for you to visit.

Other Things to See in the Area

The Pacific coastline in the states of Oregon and Washington are some of the most beautiful coastlines in all of North America.  If you are looking for a great road trip to take in the United States, there is no shortage of stunning landscapes to see up and down this coastline. 

For those of you who are planning to visit Crater Lake National Park and are looking for some additional things to add to your itinerary while you are in the area, I have included links to visitor guides for some of the other popular attractions in the area for you to review in my Crater Lake National Park guide below.

Where to Stay Near Crater Lake National Park

When planning a trip to Crater Lake National Park, one of the most important decisions that you will have to make is where you will stay while you visit.  Whether you are looking to go camping in the beautiful wilderness surrounding the park or looking for a hotel or lodge to stay at during your visit, I have several recommendations for you to review in this section of my Crater Lake National Park guide.

Hotels and Lodges

Campgrounds

If you would prefer to camp out during your visit to Crater Lake National Park, there are several great campsites in the area.  The closest campgrounds to the park are the Lost Creek Campground and the infamous Mazama Campground. 

The Mazama Campground is famous among national park enthusiasts because of its perfect blend of privacy and amenities.  Few other campgrounds offer as nice of amenities while still making you feel like you are alone in the woods. 

If you would like to review all of the campground options in the Crater Lake vicinity, I have included a map for you to review in my Crater Lake National Park guide below.

Crater Lake National Park Resources

There are a lot of amazing things to see and do in Crater Lake National Park.  While I have outlined some of my favorite things to see and do in the park in this guide, I wanted to also provide you with some additional park resources for you to review when planning your trip.  I have included a list of those resources in my Crater Lake National Park guide below for you to review.

• Crater Lake National Park – General Information
• Crater Lake National Park – Directions and Transportation
• Crater Lake National Park – Things to Do
• Crater Lake National Park – Places to Go
• Crater Lake National Park – Plants and Animals in the Park

Crater Lake Photography Tips

If you plan on visiting Crater Lake National Park, you will want to make sure you bring your camera with you.  The park is absolutely breathtaking, and you will want to capture your time there in photographs to share with family and friends.  To assist you in getting the best possible photographs that you can, I have included links to some photography resources below for you to review.

Crater Lake National Park Photo Gallery

With so many amazing landscapes to photograph at Crater Lake National Park, I really enjoyed my time there as a photographer.  In case you would like to see some additional photographs that I took at the park, I have included a gallery of just some of the pictures I took during my visit for you to review below.

If you would like to see more of my travel photography, I would also encourage you to give me a follow on Instagram . Putting this blog together to pass on my free guides, itineraries, and travel photography tips is a lot of work and your support in the form of a follow-on Instagram would be so very much appreciated!

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Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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6 comments ›.

Thank you for sharing the comprehensive and informative list….:)

Thank you so much for reading!!! 😄👍

Thanks for sharing such a detailed guide!

Thank you so much for reading and for the kind words!! 😀

I’ve always wanted to get back to Oregon and see Crater Lake. We did the coast road from northern California and so we missed it. I’m really surprised to see that bar graph of most visited months. It just keeps going up, up, up steadily from about June on! Great post!

Thank you so much! Definitely worth visiting! 😀

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You are very welcome!

Thank you for this information. It looks perfect. Is there a printable form of this that you could send me?

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Winter at Crater Lake

Winter at Crater Lake National Park is a quiet time.    It begins with the first large snowfall in October or early November and continues into May or June.  Tourists are few and generally spend a few minutes enjoying the lake, visitor center and  gift shop before moving on.  Craig Ackerman, Park Superintendent,   told us that a group of Chinese tourists was  bused the 85 miles from Medford to Crater Lake only to spend precisely six minutes at the rim tossing snowballs at each other before returning to Medford.   It’s great that they saw the lake and experienced the snow, but it’s also sad that they missed so much that the park has to offer.  If nothing else,  winter at the rim is a time to absorb the beauty and power of nature at its finest.  On a clear day with the blue sky reflected from the much deeper blue lake and contrasted with the whitest of snow, the scenery is the finest in the world.  During a squall, the scenery may be limited to a few feet in front of you.  A calm snow can blanket everything in minutes, adding a beauty of its own.  These are the moods of Crater Lake.  They are to be enjoyed, contemplated or endured, depending upon your frame of mind.

Wizard Island in Nasty Weather

In the winter, driving is limited to the road to Rim Village as all other roads are buried in snow.  Only the Steel Information Center at park headquarters and the restaurant and store at Rim village are open for visitors.  There is no entrance fee in the winter.  If you arrive on a weekday, you won’t have much company.  On a sunny weekend, however, the rim parking areas may be nearly full as locals partake of the nordic skiing and snowshoeing opportunities around the rim.   Of course with 15 feet, or more, of snow at the rim, park crews aren’t able to keep many parking spaces free of snow.

Bulldozer with a Challenge

Park workers are focused on snow management and keeping the road open to Rim Village.   In April of 2011, the calendar suggested spring, but it was still winter at Crater Lake.  The road had been closed due to an avalanche for several days the week before our visit.  To find out if the road to Rim Village is currently open, call 1-541-594-3000 (followed by option 1, then option 2) and listen to the recorded message. You may also call the visitor center at 1-541-594-3100. Workers use huge rotary snow plows, loaders and bulldozers to move the snow aside.  It is, however, impossible to keep the entire rim road open in the winter.  Later on crews begin breaking through the snow along the west side of the lake in a weeks-long effort to open the north entrance to the park.  In 2011 it was particularly difficult.  Some January rain soaked a six-foot layer of snow turning it to ice.  That layer was compressed by new snow forming an almost impenetrable barrier.  Not only that, as the snow began to melt the water  reached the ice layer making it extremely slippery.  Given the slopes upon which this snow rests, the avalanche danger was extreme

A Road at Headquarters

If you come to Crater Lake in the winter without snowshoes or skis,  your options are fairly limited.  It’s best to come in the morning, before the sunshine softens the snow.  You’ll be able to walk up an often slippery snow slope to get spectacular views of the lake.   Contemplate the winter moods of the park.  Those moods are driven by the weather and can change from moment to moment on the many blustery days.  Be aware that the snow overhangs the cliffs on the rim.  Getting too close to the edge can lead to an exciting ride with a deadly ending.  In 2011, significant snow lingered well into July when a visitor decided to get too close to the caldera and found himself 300 feet down the slope to the lake.  It took park workers five hours to rescue him.  He then spent several weeks in intensive care.   Another fellow, last weekend, went over the edge and slid 1300 feet down into the caldera .  He stopped within 100 feet of the water.  He will also be in the hospital for awhile.  Both men are extremely lucky to be alive.

Visitors sometimes find a perch near Crater Lake Lodge.  It offers protection from south winds and a wide open view of the lake.  As the day progresses and the sun warms the snow, you’ll find your boots sinking deeper.  When your weight breaks the fragile surface crust, you will be sinking to your knees or even deeper.  It’s best to return to the parking area at this point as it becomes increasingly difficult to move on the snow.  You may want to walk around the roads at park headquarters.  For many people its a new experience to stand between vertical walls of snow 12-feet or more tall.  The lovely rustic buildings that make up the Historic District are all but invisible under 12 feet of snow.

Administration Building

With snowshoes or nordic skis (our preference) it’s an entirely different story.  If you’d like to try snowshoeing, guided walks are offered every Saturday and Sunday at 1:00 p.m. from late November or early December through the end of April.  Snowshoes are loaned free of charge and no previous snowshoeing experience is necessary.  Get all the details and sign up in advance at the Steel Visitor Center or by calling 541-594-3100.  Beginning in January of 2012, the concessionaire at the park is offering snowshoes for rent in case you want to set off on your own.  They are available at the Rim Village Gift Store.

Rim Village

During our April visit there were a few inches of fresh powder on top of the crusty old snow, a skiers paradise.  When the weather is nice, skiers prefer following Rim Drive westward from Rim Village.  It’s usually an out and back trip to one of several destinations: Discovery Point (1.2 miles, these are all one-way mileages), Wizard Island Overlook (2.3 miles), Union Peak Overlook (3.1 miles), Watchman Overlook (3.9 miles), Diamond Lake Overlook (4.6 miles) or North Junction (6.0 miles).  Note that traveling is sometimes very hazardous past Watchman Overlook.  When it’s windy or snowing,  the rim can be uncomfortable and unsafe.  In these conditions, skiers prefer the East Rim Drive, starting near the Steel Information Center.  This is also an out and back opportunity.  Popular destinations include Vidae Falls (3.1 miles), and Sun Notch (4.5 miles).  There are avalanche chutes along the way, so get the details on alternative routes and current condition information at the Steel Center before you start out.  The park offers several other trails as well.  Be aware that these trails are not groomed.  You may have to break trail, but those that follow will appreciate your efforts.

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To us, the greatest winter adventure is to circumnavigate the lake on skis or snowshoes.  Under the best conditions, this 31-mile trip can take 3 days.  It requires winter camping, survival skills and knowledge of avalanche safety.  Fewer than 100 people make this trip each year, usually in late March or April, when the days are longer and the weather is better.  Like all back country camping in the park, a free permit is required. General snow-play is always an option at Crater Lake in the winter.  Sledding and inner tubing can be great fun if you choose your play area carefully.  Be sure there is no way to get in front of cars, that there are few obstacles in the way, and that you’ll be able to stop safely.  Ask for help locating a spot when you are at the Steel Center or speak to one of the ski patrol members you may see around Rim Village.

Winter is a surprisingly great time to visit Crater Lake National Park.  The view across the lake on a clear winter day is the best on the planet. Getting to the park in the winter can be an adventure in itself.  With rapid weather shifts and deep snow almost any journey into the back country is threatening in a way that gets the adrenaline pumping.  For those that make the trip around the lake, it’s a world class adventure.  The variety of things to see and do at the park is limited in the winter.  The great historic treasures in the park are mostly under the snow.  There are some fun opportunities for kids if you bring sleds, inner tubes, skis and other equipment.  Overall, our rating totaled a 7.0 on our scale of 10.  If you’ve visited the park in the winter, give us your thoughts in the comment box below.

More Information

For more information about winter activities at Crater Lake, check out the winter edition of the park’s newspaper Crater Lake Reflections .  It also includes a map of the park and here is a large PDF version of the official park map .  The park also offers this flier about winter trails in the park . Check out the Crater Lake Web Cameras for a current view of the Lake (remember the photos will be black at night).  Also, check out our blog post on driving in winter conditions , to help you get there safely.

This article, the photos and the video were created by Jerry Haugen, Pathfinder.  ©2011-2016, Global Creations LLC.  All rights reserved.

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45 responses to “winter at crater lake”.

Hi Gisselle,

Actually you can go anytime after October to be sure to find snow – or check the web cams at https://www.nps.gov/crla/learn/photosmultimedia/webcams.htm . Just start at the south entrance (Annie Springs Entrance) and drive into the park. As you climb from 4000 feet to 8000 feet the snow will get deeper and deeper. The three web cams will show you what you will see when you get there. There are parking spots along the road, so just pick a spot that suits your needs.

Congratulations on your engagement.

Hello! I’m planning to have my engagement photos taken in a few months and I hope to have a snow theme and would like to see when is the best time to go visit before the snow gets too bad. Thank you 😊

In October the average daily high is 52F and low is 31F with 10 days of precipitation. Some of that precipitation is likely going to be snow – the average is 21 inches over the month with 2 inches on the ground, again, on the average. The 2 inches on the ground could be 4 inches over two weeks, 8 inches over a week or 21 inches for a day or two if that ‘average’ snow falls all on one day.

By October the north entrance may be closed, but there shouldn’t be enough snow for avalanches to block the road to the rim from the south entrance. Crater Lake Lodge closes in mid-October and the cabins at Mazama Village close at the end of September. The Lost Creek Campground may be open until mid-October. Mazama Campground closes around the end of September.

Best wishes, -Jerry-

Hi Jerry, how is the weather at the lake in Mid-October? Thanks, Wade

Hi Andre, The only portion of the rim you will be able to access will be between the lodge and the gift shop. Not much cover for a photographer. You might be able to get around behind the lodge, but stay close to it as there is likely to be a snow cornice that will break off if you get past what may, or may not, be recognizable as the patio. Perhaps a photographer could peak around a corner of the lodge. Good luck! -Jerry-

Hey Jerry, I am planning on proposing to my girlfriend during thanksgiving time at crater lake. any suggestions on a good location to pop the question? maybe some good cover for a photographer as well, with a good view of the lake for both? Is the weather predictable enough in late november ? Im thinking something closer to the lodge is what Im looking for. Thanks -Andre

It is unlikely that you will be following the rim exclusively during your trip. If you tried that, you would be climbing and descending mountains. In addition, there are typically large cornices of snow hanging over the rim so it would be very difficult to know where solid ground ends and a death spiral begins. Once you back off the rim a bit, you will be on the rim road and the route most people take.

There is a profile of the rim road here: rideoregonride.com/road-routes/crater-lake-rim-route . I’m not a snowboarder, so I can’t assess how easy/difficult this would be for you. Hopefully the road profile will help you decide what to do. Cross country skiers, that are capable of the trip in the first place, don’t seem to have any difficulty with the slopes – it is, after all, a road. Having said that, with the amount of snow it won’t look much like a road. You’ll, basically, be traveling cross slope. I haven’t taken the trip, but I imagine one could adjust the route to stay at a relatively uniform elevation to avoid downhills that are too steep.

When you get there, be sure to ask about the avalanche situation and snow conditions. Besides changing after every storm, they can change through a day as temperatures fluctuate.

Hi Jerry! You seem so knowledgeable and I have one question that I can’t seem to nail down info on no matter where I look regarding a winter backcountry circumnavigation of the lake. We are heading out at the end of March (weather dependent) and have been in a constant debate whether to snowshoe or splitboard (snowboard that changes into skis for traversing/uphill). Obviously, the splitboard/ski version will allow for more loft in the snow and more speed during travel, but we were concerned about the amount of descent or steepness of the downhill when traveling the route clockwise. The uphill part is manageable for us, but the downhill will require some planning. We can always ride the snowboard downhill, but it is difficult to do with a full backpacking pack,and the skis are not ‘real’ skis for traveling downhill as they are more for ascents and don’t offer much control for downhill riding. So, the long and short of it is can we travel downhill using a more slow, cross country style movement on skis, or are we going to pick up too much speed and need to actually ‘ski’? We are avid snowshoers, so as of now we are just leaning toward that even though it is slower. It is hard to really get a read on the elevation changes of the route because it travels over such a significant distance of 30+ miles! Plus, snow levels are pretty heavy this year…so we have a lot to factor in to the planning of the trip.

Thanks so much for your help in advance!

I often make it to the rim without chains with 4WD, but then I pick my days carefully. It’s best to carry chains in case you need them.

The only approach is via the Annie Creek entrance off Highway 62. Normally, you can get from the south entrance to the rim where the gift shop/restaurant is open. Created Lake Lodge is closed for the winter and the entire rim drive is closed as is the north entrance. The Steel Visitor center is open. Earlier this week, the road from the Steel Visitor Center to the rim was closed due to snow. That happens a lot although they do try to get it open as soon as they can.

The best view is from the rim. Later in the day, the sun often softens the snow so you won’t be able to walk around much without snow shoes. People ski from the rim down to the Steel Center, get the details from the visitor center.

If you want to spend a full day at the park, you’ll probably want to stay at Jo’s Motel ( http://www.josmotel.com/ ).

I am visiting a Bend, OR resort from Seattle, more like Redmond area, from Dec 23-27. We are 2 adults and 2 kids 11 and 15yrs. Thought of visiting crater lake from there for one full day.

I have a Nissan Pathfinder, 4 wheel drive. Do I still need the chains? what is the best approach. What is open and closed. where are the best views and which activities are available. It seems like the snow shoe walk in the afternoon is available. BTW, Couple of us are Alpine Skiers. Please advise.

Current conditions at Crater Lake have little to do with tomorrow’s conditions there – much less a week from now. I suggest that, before you leave Eagle Point, you check out the web cams at: http://www.nps.gov/crla/learn/photosmultimedia/webcams.htm . You will be entering the Annie Creek entrance to the park and driving past the Steel Visitor Center on the way to the rim. There are cameras at all three locations. There are a couple of additional cameras at the rim that you can find at http://www.craterlakelodges.com/webcam/ The north entrance and the rim road are, of course, closed for the season.

For what it’s worth, the long range forecast has snow every day between now and Thanksgiving Day with a total of as much as a foot of new snow. It’s supposed to get above freezing most days, so some of that snow should be gone by Thanksgiving and the roads will likely be pretty clear. Thanksgiving Day: “A chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 30.” Call the park at (541) 594-3000 for up-to-the-minute details.

Have a great visit!

We are a group of 5 friends planning to drive to Crater Lake on Thanksgiving day. We do not have a lot of experience driving in the snow. This year seems to be warmer at least around Seattle. What would your advice be based on the current weather conditions? We plan to stay at Eagle Point so we would only be visiting Crater Lake for a couple of hours but I am more concerned about the drive. Suggestions?

Yes, there is always snow at Crater Lake in the winter. Actually, an average total of 43 feet at park headquarters and more at the rim. The average snow depth in March is almost 10 feet. The video and most of the photos in the story were shot in April when the snow depth was almost 12 feet.

Whether you can see the lake or not depends upon the weather. Sometimes the view of the lake is spectacular and other times it is hidden by falling snow or fog/clouds. Sometimes the road to the rim is closed due to heavy snows or avalanches, but park staff is really good about getting it open ASAP. You will not be able to drive around the lake and will need to come in through the south entrance.

You can always check current conditions via the links at: http://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/current-conditions.htm

Driving conditions vary on a daily, and sometimes hourly, basis, so be sure to carry tire chains and be prepared to use them if necessary. Usually that 10 feet of snow is piled along the roads so you can’t slide off of them even if you tried. Other than that, driving on snow is pretty much the same everywhere – it’s just a matter of driving slowly and carefully and being especially careful with your brakes on the way down.

Enjoy your visit!

We are coming to Oregon the week of March 13th, 2017. We are coming from Iowa so we are used to the cold and snow. My question is, will I be able to see any of Crater Lake at this time? Is there always snow during the winter? I am a little nervous about driving on the roads out there. We go to Oregon every year, but this will be the first time we go during the Winter.

Get there as early as you can, even if it’s still dark. It’s the first day of National Park week so entrance should be free – getting there early will avoid the crowds – if any – later in the day. Expect ice on the road! Parking at the rim depends upon the snow situation. I suspect the Park Service has cleaned it up pretty well so you should be ok. Hopefully it will get cold tonight so the snow will be hard in the morning. You should be able to walk around on top of the snow to get good views of the lake. I don’t know about rentals at the park. Supposed to be sunny tomorrow!

Have fun! -Jerry-

Thanks for all the great information here. Planning to head into the park tomorrow, April 16. I am thinking of arriving at rim on around 8:30-9:00. Is that a good time? How much parking is there? I don’t have snowshoes and called to sign up too late for ranger led trek. How much can you walk around and see. How much time do you recommend spending given no snowshoes? I have seen doing some research the Rim Village Gift shop might rent snowshoes. Any information in regard to that? Thanks so much for the great info!

As the year progresses, the park tends to have fewer storms and more sunny days. Those sunny days can melt the snow/ice from the road, but they will freeze up again toward evening. The photos in the story were taken in April, so yes, the park will look like winter in March. There is a lot of snow this year so expect more than shown in the story. There is no chance the rim road will be open either east from the Steel Visitor Center or West from rim.

The rim above the lake is at around 7100 feet while Klamath Lake is around 4,000 feet. It will be springtime at 4,000 feet and the roads should be good. If you take Highway 97 northward you’ll climb to around 4600 feet then 4800 feet at Chemult. Chemult tends to have more snow than elsewhere, but the roads should be good unless they have a storm near your travel dates. North of Chemult, you’ll take Hwy 58 over Willamette Pass (5200 feet) on your way to Eugene. Chances are the roads will be clear, but they can have a snowstorm anytime too. So to answer your questions: Yes, winter does taper off a bit into March. Travel risk will vary by elevation and when a snowstorm hits relative to the date of your visit. Typically the roads will be clear once you get off the mountain, but that can change rapidly from day to day. Weather risk does diminish, especially on Highway 97 where Mt Mazama and Mt Scott block a lot of the snow. So, that’s my story and I’m sticking with it, until March proves me wrong.

Have a great trip!

Aloha Jerry, Many thanks for this informative string of answers. My wife and I are planning a recon trip to Crater Lake around March 17 -18 for just a quick look enroute north to Eugene. We will have chains in the car and will certainly be careful to hang back from the snow rim. A couple of (perhaps unfair!) questions: Although the weather is always unpredictable,and this El Niño year has already delivered a lot of precipitation, based on your experience,would we be arriving during full winter risk conditions or does the season taper a bit after early March? How far beyond the Lake do hazardous winter driving conditions typically extend in mid March? We will probably be coming from Ashland and be headed up 97 to Eugene after our visit. Does the weather risk diminish a bit once we leave the Crater? Thanks in advance for any insights you can share. Cheers, Pete

Hi Tyler, First, you will need chains on your tires, but 2WD should get you there ok. At the moment the road from park headquarters (Steel Visitor Center) to the rim is open, but it could be closed at any time due to snow. Second, be sure to check conditions before you go: http://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/current-conditions.htm and stop at the visitor center to get current details. Finally, stay back from the rim. What looks like solid ground is really snow cornices dangling out over the caldera. If a cornice breaks free, you will have a deadly ride to the lake. Enjoy!

Hi Jerry, this is a wonderful place for information regarding crator lake. I will be attempting to make it to the rim between jan 4 and Jan 8 in a 2wd sedan. Is there anything I should be advised of, and is it even possible this time of the year?

Hey Plyush, As I mentioned to Abhishek in an earlier comment: 1. Yes it is safe. There will be many people visiting the park over the holidays. 2. You’ll need to make your own activities – snowshoeing, skiing, sledding etc. 3. The lake is not accessible being a couple thousand feet below the rim. It’s typically visible about half the time in December due to storm clouds coming through. 4. That kind of car will work, but you are required to have chains in the vehicle. It’s also good to know how and when to install them. For more on winter driving see our blog post on that subject .

Crater Lake has been getting a lot of snow. Heavy snow last week knocked down a lot of tress on Highway 62 west of the part and it remains closed as crews work on opening it. The south entrance to the park is open, but you’ll need to get there from the east. As always, the north entrance and rim drive is closed for the winter. The road from the Steel Visitor Center to the rim is closed at the moment, but crews are working on opening it up. You can get current conditions at the Park website . At last report the snow depth was over 6 feet – 150% of average for this time of year – and more storms are coming.

-Jerry- PS As of December 22, 2015 the park was expecting an additional 20 inches of snow on top of 80 inches already there. Highway 62 to the west of the park was closed due to many trees that have fallen across it. Access from the east from US 97 to the park on Hwy 62 was open, but the road from park headquarters to the rim was closed due to the heavy snowfall. All facilities at the rim were closed. High winds blew over many snow laden trees over the weekend, so be careful in the woods and be sure to check in at the Visitor Center when you arrive for more information. Have chains for your vehicle and plan to use them!

We are a group of 8 friends (4 driving from Seattle and 4 from SF, California) planning to visit on the Christmas weekend Dec 24-27, 2015. Can you please help me with the following questions:

– is it safe to visit the Crater Lake during the above mentioned time period? – what are the activities we can do for 2-3 days? – will the lake be visible/accessible? – we are getting a 2 wheel drive sedan with All Weather Tyres. do you think this car can work in the current weather conditions?

Thanks for your time.

Hello Jose,

The campgrounds at Crater Lake are closed for the season. However, if you are an experienced winter camper, you can still backpack in the Park and camp in the snow almost anywhere, if you are at least a mile from a plowed road. For more details see the park publication “ Winter Backcountry Use. ” For accommodations outside the park, check out: Crater Lake Bed and Breakfast Crater Lake Resort Jo’s Motel and Campground

Snowshoe walks are offered every Saturday and Sunday (and some holidays) through May 1, 2016. Walks will also be offered on weekdays in late December and early January. The walks start at 1:00 p.m., last two hours, and cover one mile of moderately strenuous terrain. They don’t follow a trail—the hike is an off-trail exploration through the forests and meadows along the rim of Crater Lake. No previous snowshoeing experience is necessary. Snowshoes are provided free of charge, and there is no cost for the tour. Participants should be at least 8 years old and come prepared with warm clothing and water-resistant footwear.

Space on each tour is limited, and advance reservations are required. For more information and to sign up, call the park’s visitor center at 541-594-3100. The visitor center is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. except on December 25. Groups of 10 or more people may be able to arrange for a separate tour just for their group.

Crater Lake National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. The park’s north entrance and Rim Drive are closed to cars in the winter, but the west and south entrances are plowed daily and are open to automobiles throughout the year. There is no winter lodging in the park, but the Rim Village Café and Gift Shop is open daily except on December 25. Spectacular views of Crater Lake can be obtained at Rim Village during periods of clear weather.

Hi, how are you ? First, thanks a lot for all the information you provided. My question is… Could be possible to camp next 19, 20th of december near the lake ?. There,re winter campgrounds ? We,re two people, one adult and one child ten-years-old. My second question is … could I do reservation rangers snowshoes tour ? I already hearing that is possible for free saturday and sunday morning… right ? Thanks a lot again Jose

Hi Abhishek,

1. Yes, it is safe. The park is open and staffed year-around. When you arrive, stop at the Steel Visitor Center and ask about any special hazards. Most dangerous in the winter are the snow overhangs along the rim above the lake. Stay well back from the edge to avoid collapsing a cornice and falling down the cliff. There may be avalanche hazards in some places so ask about that. None of this may be an issue at Thanksgiving time, but one never knows.

2. National parks do not provide much in the way of ‘activities’, you will need to make your own. They do sometimes offer snowshoe walks, but otherwise bring your cross country skies, sleds, saucers, snowshoes and whatever you need to play in the snow – assuming there is snow then. If snow is lacking, you will be able to take various hikes. How far you go depends upon your winter outdoor skills.

3. Yes, most likely the lake will be visible. Sometimes snowstorms can make it hard to see as shown in photo in the article.

4. It’s hard to say about chains or traction tires. It all depends on the weather. Your best bet is to buy a set of chains before you come. I believe Les Schwab Tire Stores will sell you a set then refund the cost if you don’t use them. They will also instruct you on how to install them. Be sure your winter driving skills are sharp. Take AAA’s advice .

Be sure to check the park’s web cams at: http://www.nps.gov/crla/learn/photosmultimedia/webcams.htm . At the moment they appear to have a little bit of snow and ice on the roads. The view of the lake is spectacular today.

Be aware that you will be entering the park from the south entrance as the north entrance and the rim road closed on November 1, for the winter.

We are a group of 6 (2 driving down from Seattle and 4 from Sunnyvale California) planning to visit on Thanksgiving weekend 2015. I have a few questions. 1: Is it safe to visit crater lake in late November ? 2: Are there enough activities we can do for 2-3 days ? 3: Will the lake be visible/accessible ? 4: Will snow chains be required for cars ? If yes, will they be available anywhere near the national park ?

If you want to camp in the park, you can camp anywhere in the backcountry at least one mile away from a plowed road. You will probably need your skis or snowshoes to get there and, even if there isn’t any snow when you set out, you should expect snow before you return and carry skis or snowshoes with you. Ask for up-to-the-minute advice when you get to the park. For all the details see: http://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/upload/2010-winter-backcountry-sb.pdf

We would like to backpack and camp in crater lake second week of December for two nights. Where can we go hike and camp that is open besides diamond lake?

I’ll be happy to help however I can as your travel date gets closer. I’m sure you will have a great time.

Thank you very much jerry for your guidance. i am feeling confident now and would not be cancelling my hotel reservation ! we take it as a good chance to experience the snow. i will buy those tire chains for my van to be safe. i will contact you once more, in the third week of November before starting our travel for your guidance.

1. I see no problem with a Honda van – if the heater works. If there is snow or ice at that time, you might want to bring tire chains or cable chains and know how to put them on. To get here, the safest way is to take I-5 to Weed then US-97 to Klamath Falls. That avoids a pass on I-5 that is sometimes a problem. Usually we don’t get much snow until later in December – of course that’s hard to predict. 2. Again, no problem with a Honda van. The drive is pretty flat until you get to the Park itself. If there is snow, you might want to have those tire chains to help get up the hill without slipping around. With all the sunshine here, the snow melts off the roads pretty fast. You just need to drive with respect for the road conditions. 3. There shouldn’t be enough snow at that time of year to have any danger of avalanches. There is only one place on the way to Rim Village that is sometimes closed due to an avalanche. Your odds of getting hit by an avalanche are somewhere close to zero. I’d be more afraid of driving around Sunnyvale. If it’s cold enough, you can get frost bite, but wear your coat, hat, boots and gloves and keep the heater on when in your van and you should have no trouble.

It is, of course, safe to visit in November. Lots of people live here all winter, including kids of all ages, without any problem. As far as extreme cold, it’s pretty rare for it to get a lot below zero here, but it happens occasionally. Dress appropriately and cold will not be an issue. The kids will love it. Now, I hope we have some snow for your visit! Well, there may not be snow in Klamath Falls, but it’s a pretty sure bet there will be some at Crater Lake.

When it gets time to come, you can check the webcameras to see what’s happening:

Crater Lake Road Cameras from Weed to Klamath Falls

I writing this to you from sunnyvale,CA. We as a family of 4 ( with 2 little boys) are planning to visit crater lake. we have booked a hotel in klamath falls in the last week of november. I checked the weather only after booking the hotel and am kind of in doubt. we are not used to extreme cold conditions but the sight and feel of snow is something we would love. I have the below questions :-

1. would it be safe to drive from sunnyvale in a honda odyssey van to klamath falls ? 2. how is the drive to klamath falls to crater’s lake in odyssey van ? 3. would there be a fear of avalanches or frost bites ?

please let me know if it is safe to visit there in november end especially with two boys aged 5 and 2.

thank you very much jerry.

Hi Don, Regardless of the Rim Road situation, come anyway! Even if it’s closed, you will still be able to get to the rim from the south entrance (usually) and the snow adds to the beauty of the lake. Summer visitors miss that. Some of the services at the park close earlier in October (see: http://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/hours.htm and you can always check the park website for current conditions ( http://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/current-conditions.htm . Best wishes, -Jerry-

Jerry, Thanks for all the great info. We will arrive Crater Lake on October 13th and hope to be able to complete the drive around the Lake, weather permitting. Any comments would be appreciated.

brgrds, Don

Hi Hong, Snow has been sparse this winter. Today there were 30 inches on the ground at park headquarters. Average for the date is 120 inches. There is a storm moving through now with a prediction of 8 to 19 inches additional snow by Wednesday. The weather has been quite variable this year, so it’s hard to guess the conditions a couple weeks out. Best if you give the park a call at (541) 594-3000 closer to your planned trip. -Jerry-

I and my friend want to snowshoeing around crater lake 4/17-20/2015, do you think the snow and weather condition will be good for us to do it at that time period?

Hi Jeff, There isn’t much snow for Crater Lake, at the moment, but there is still plenty to ski on. so that’s not an issue (check the web cams at craterlakelodges.com/webcam/ .

The problem is the rapidly changing weather. Had you gone last week you would have faced a blizzard pushed by hurricane force winds. The recommendation for going in the spring is the tendency for more stable weather then. The bottom line is, go when you want, but be certain to check the weather forecast and be prepared to settle in for a few days if things change.

How are conditions up there for skiing around the rim so far this winter? Any reason to wait until March or April?

Sorry Betty, that’s not permitted in the Park: “Pets are not permitted on any ski routes or in the backcountry. Pets are permitted on leash up to 50 feet from plowed roads, and parking areas.” For all the details about winter park use see: http://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/upload/2010-winter-backcountry-sb.pdf

The park is, however, surrounded by National Forests that do, in general, allow dogs to travel with skiers.

Do you know what the policy of the park is for pets? We love to have our dog accompany us when we cross country ski.

There are so many beautiful things to see in Oregon, Crater Lake among them. In the summer, winter, spring or fall, Crater Lake is gorgeous and these photos offer a fresh look at what this majestic location looks like under snowfall.

If you are visiting Oregon, it is a mere 250 miles from Portland Oregon to the majestic Crater Lake. So many beautiful places to see, it does not matter the time of year, go and explore all the beauty that the Pacific NorthWest has to offer.

I apologize for the delay in responding. Here is the list of motels provided by Dahniel Ferris from Discover Klamath Visitor & Convention Bureau:

Crater Lake Bed & Breakfast Lodging Type: Hotel/Motel City: Fort Klamath 52395 Weed Road Fort Klamath, OR 97626 Phone: 541-381-9711 Fax: 541-381-0960 Price: $99 or less A great lodging choice in the Crater Lake National Park area. Beautiful year round, each season outshines the other. QUIET rural setting. Just 15 minutes from the south entrance to the Park. http://www.craterlakebandb.com

Crater Lake Resort & Cabins Lodging Type: Cabins City: Fort Klamath 50711 Highway 62 Fort Klamath, OR 97626 Phone: 541-381-2349 Fax: 541-381-2343 Price: $99 or less Located just 25 miles south of Crater Lake on Highway 62. Cabins and RV camping available. http://www.craterlakeresort.com

Jo’s Motel & Campground Lodging Type: Hotel/Motel City: Fort Klamath 52851 Hwy 62 Fort Klamath, OR 97626 Phone: 541-381-2234 Fax: 541-381-2231 Price: $99 or less Jo’s Motel & Campground invites you to be comfortable, whether you’re camping, lodging or just passing through. Guests will enjoy full kitchens in two-bedroom suites and park model cabin. Jo’s Motel and Organic Grocery was recently chosen for inclusion on National Geographic’s geotourism map. See why by visiting them any day between 9 AM & 7 PM. Prepare to be impressed by their full line of organic groceries & meats, fresh produce and dairy, full breakfasts, as well as sandwiches, burgers, and fries. Pick up snacks, beer, and a wide selection of wines. http://www.josmotel.com

What are the best low-cost nearby lodging options (indoor, with heat!), in your opinion?

Hi Colin, Great question. Your trip can start either at the visitor center or at Crater Lake Lodge. The Park Service keeps the road between the restaurant/store and the lodge open and you can park in the middle of the road in a sort of island area. That’s best if you want to ski clockwise around the lake. If you want to ski counter-clockwise, you can park near the Steel Visitor Center. When you pick up your back country permit (free) at the Steel Center, you will be directed to an appropriate parking spot. Your vehicle will likely be buried upon your return, but you’ll probably have a shovel of some sort with you. If not, and it’s during working hours, park staff will be happy to lend you a shovel. By the way, that 3-day trip is a best case. Weather and a variety of other factors can, and probably will, make the trip longer. -Jerry-

Jerry, You describe how Crater Lake offers spectacular scenery during a three day snowshoe/cross country ski trip around the perimeter. Due to heavy snow and limited road openings, it seems the trip would have to start and finish at the Park Visitor Center. Since the National Park website says parking is limited here, what areas do you recommend for overnight parking? Thanks for the article, Colin

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Things to Do in Crater Lake National Park: A Perfect Two Day Stay

last Updated: March 24, 2023 crater lake oregon

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Visiting Crater Lake in the near future for a much needed weekend escape? I’ve got your back! Keep reading for not only things to do in Crater Lake, but for when to go, where to stay, my favorite hikes (with the dreamiest views), and where to eat. Enjoy!

Crater Lake National Park has got to be one of the most mesmerizing places I’ve been to date. With its calm dazzling blue waters, scenic highways, and super starry night skies, you can be sure you’ll never forget your visit to Crater Lake. And that’s a promise! The park is just begging to be explored, and with all the things to do in Crater Lake, you’ll never have enough of this captivating place.

Located in southern Oregon, visiting Crater Lake can be done by flying into Portland (PDX) and driving the 4 hours south. Live on the west coast and don’t feel like coughing up the money for a plane ticket? Make a road trip out of it! The lake is about 6.5 hours from San Francisco, 4 hours from Redding, and 4 hours from Sacramento, so have your pick as what’s easiest for you! I recommend visiting Crater Lake when you have a long weekend break as 3 days (including driving to/from the park) will suffice!

Some fast facts and history before your visit

Crater Lake was formed by the collapse of the volcano known as Mount Mazama, after an enormous eruption about 7,700 years ago. This eruption drastically changed the landscape all around the volcano, forming a caldera (essentially a hole made by the collapse of a volcano) which is now filled by what we know as Crater Lake.

Yes, an eruption can occur someday in the future (even though it’s been dormant for about 5-6,000 years), and Mount Mazama may in fact grow back.

Crater Lake is currently the 10th-deepest lake in the world, with a maximum depth of almost 600 meters (1,949 feet). It’s also the deepest lake in the USA!

The magnificent intense blue color of Crater Lake is primarily due to it’s great, great depth, and remarkable clarity. The waters stay so clear since the lake has no other bodies of water flowing into it, meaning little-to-no pollution!  

When to Visit Crater Lake:

Crater Lake weather can essentially be divided into two distinct seasons – summer and winter. The summers are short and winters are long, so plan ahead if you prefer visiting Crater Lake when it’s not freezing out!

Summer: I recommend visiting Crater Lake during the months of July, August, and September. This will ensure that the park roads will remain open for the duration of your visit, and you most likely won’t freeze to death (nights do get chilly though).

These also happen to be the most popular times to visit Crater Lake, but don’t fret – the park is rather large so you’ll still be able to find your own spots of peace and solitude.  

We visited Crater Lake over Labor Day weekend, and totally expected the park to be crazy crowded the entire time. To our surprise, we found the park to be relatively quiet, and even had a bunch of trails all to ourselves at some points. Maybe the fear of smoke kept people at bay, or maybe I’m just used to masses of people in other parks nearby (ahem, Yosemite in summer, I’m looking at you).

I do need to point out that this area (Northern California and all of Oregon) have been experiencing some particularly horrifying wildfires in the recent years, which have only been getting worse and worse.

Before visiting Crater Lake between the months of August to October, it’s wise to check on the smoke and therefore air quality conditions. Smoke and haze have the ability to drastically affect the view of the lake, and breathing in toxic air is obviously not favorable.

Winter : While Crater Lake National Park looks downright dreamy in it’s winter wonderland phase, if you want to properly explore, I don’t recommend visiting between October through April/May. It’s actually the fifth snowiest place in America! Many roads within the park will be closed as soon as the snow starts sticking, which can be as early as mid-November. Rim Drive will open again to visitors as early as June, but you just never know when the snow will melt!

With that being said, winters are exceptionally long in the park, with May and June being months of transition. Roads, trails, and facilities begin to open depending on weather conditions.

A word of caution: Winter conditions can be somewhat hazardous within Crater Lake National Park. Forty four feet of snow are dropped on the park on average per year (yes 44!), so you can be sure to expect mounds of snow on any given day as early as early November. Snowstorms are quite common, so be careful when driving (even if the road is plowed) as ice and snow can impact road conditions.

Read Next: 3 Perfect Days in Portland (The Portland Itinerary You’ll Want to Copy)

Where to Stay in/near Crater Lake:

Staying within the park:.

If you have your heart set on staying within the park itself, you’ll need to make your reservations way in advance (recommended if you want to tackle alllll the things to do in Crater Lake – way less wasted driving time). Note that staying in either of these is not a possibility from November through April, as they close for the snowy winter season. Plan accordingly. 🙂

Crater Lake National Park boasts two hotels/motels within the park itself (which are only open in the summer; May – September). Crater Lake Lodge (the #1 place to stay) actually overlooks the lake, while The Cabins at Mazama Village (a no-frills resort in the middle of a pine forest) are located a few miles south.

Both book up super quick, so if you’d like to stay directly within park boundaries, it’s a good idea to make your arrangements as soon as possible. Don’t fret if all the rooms are sold out (but what a bummer), as there are numerous towns nearby with more accommodation options (info below).

Staying Nearby/Outside the Park:

Since both options within the boundaries of the park were sold out (we booked waaaaay too late considering we were visiting Crater Lake over Labor Day weekend, whoops), we decided to spend our first night in a town nearby.

After a bit of research, we chose to stay at Melita’s Motel and Cafe in Chiloquin , which was roughly 45 minutes away from the park’s entrance.

If we were smart and had booked (even) earlier, I would have preferred to stay in Fort Klamath which is a bit closer to the park (about 30 minutes away) and offered more options (Aspen Inn, Crater Lake Bed and Breakfast , and Crater Lake Resort all looked rather decent).

So basically, book as soon as you know your dates, especially if you’re visiting Crater Lake in the summer months or over a long holiday weekend, such as Labor Day. 🙂

Things to do in Crater Lake

With a weekend in Crater Lake, you can really do so much. Although we spent most of our time hiking, you can revel in the views from Rim Drive’s multitude of lookout points, get some fancy drinks and/or a dessert at Crater Lake Lodge, and even go for a swim (if you dare to step foot in the chilly waters)!

It’s important to understand that Crater Lake is not a huge park like, say Yosemite or Grand Canyon , where it’s easy to spend a week or more exploring. You can really get a true taste for the park and basically check off all the things to do in Crater Lake (including a bunch of hikes) with just 2 or 3 days visiting Crater Lake. We had almost two full days and felt this was sufficient to do most of what we wanted (we missed out on a boat ride and a short swim in the waters though).

Have only a short period of time in the park? You’ll get the absolute best views along Crater Lakes’ Rim Drive. This 33 mile drive around the perimeter of the lake will provide over 30 lookout points, some designated and some just pull offs from the road.

The road is completely paved, easily driveable (in the summer months!), with tons of scenic overlooks of the expansive, deep blues to view and ooh and awe at! Be sure to check out Pumice Castle (narrow towers of reddish stone that resemble a castle), Cloudcap (for sunset!), Watchman Overlook, and Pinnacles Overlook – all absolutely stunning! But really, all views of the lake deserve a thumbs up (or 2 or 5).

Don’t worry, the views aren’t left only to the hikers, promise. 😉

Boat cruise

If you’d like to take a boat tour around the lake and/or visit Wizard Island (only offered in summer), I HIGHLY recommend you make a reservation in advance (tickets are known to sell out months beforehand).

Unfortunately, we decided to wait until the morning of to attempt to book a tour, and of course they were sold out. Note that half of the tickets are sold well in advance (17/34), and the other half are sold within 24 hours of the start of the tour. Meaning you CAN book tickets once you get to Crater Lake.

It’s best to be super flexible and understand you may not get your first choice of time and/or tour type. With only 34 tickets available per boat and honestly not that many tours offered per day, it can be difficult to score a ticket.

Don’t get upset if you miss out, as there’s numerous other things to do in Crater Lake.  Psst – you’ll need to hike down Cleetwood Cove Trail (1.1 miles and very steep) in order to hop on the boat.

Swimming at Crater Lake

Hoping to get down to those dazzling blue waters yourself? Hike the 1.1 mile (2.2 roundtrip) Cleetwood Cove Trail – a short, but very steep hike, which offers direct access to the shore.

Note that swimming is only permitted at Cleetwood Cove’s edge of Crater Lake, and it’s the only legal and safe access to the shoreline. The water is coooold, so don’t expect a leisurely swim in comfy bath water.

You can also jump from a 20+ foot cliff into the crystal clear blue water of Crater Lake if you feel ever so inclined to do so.

Go for a hike

Whip out your ol’ dusty hiking boots during your visit to Craters Lake, because you won’t find better views. Numerous trails are located around the perimeter of the park (more info below), and from easy one-milers (and flat!) to more strenuous ascents, everyone will find something they’re interested in.

Our favorites were the Discovery Trail (easy peasy), Mount Scott for sky high views of the lake, and Watchmen Overlook for a breezy, yet beautiful sunset.

Hiking in Crater Lake:

Listed in order of difficulty (easy – moderate – strenuous):

Sun Notch : This super short, .8 mile relatively flat loop will grant you perfect views of Phantom Ship, which is definitely a sight to be seen! You’ll hike through an open pumice meadow directly to the rim of Crater Lake, where you’ll instantly get fantastic views of the lake!

Don’t miss the two Phantom Ship viewpoints along the trail as they provide different angles of the unique formation. The Sun Notch trail also provides great views of the Chaski Slide and Dutton Cliff. Aka – don’t miss it when visiting Crater Lake!

Pinnacles Overlook: Looking for something a bit different during your visit to the National Park? Check out the pinnacles, towering needle-like formations of rock which are actually volcanic ash spires. The trail is wide and basically flat, with many views of these strange structures.

You can really see what effects erosion and wind (and other natural elements) have on the environment. They slightly reminded me of the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon! Note that the Pinnacles overlook is located 6 miles off the main road from the lake (all paved – don’t worry), so don’t expect any lake views over here.

These kooky structures more than make up for the extra driving time though. 🙂 Psst – you don’t need to go all the way to the end to see them.

Discovery Trail : 2 miles roundtrip, small elevation gain. An easy trail with spectacular views of Crater Lake along the rim. Snaking right along Rim Drive, you’ll want to be sure to stay on the hiking path in order to soak up the views (aka do not walk on the road). 🙂

Although you’ll be meandering through the forest, there are several openings from which to view the lake, it’s rim, and Wizard Island. Be careful of the steep edges – there are no railings over here! A great first mini-hike, relatively quiet, and one of our favorite things to do in Crater Lake.

Watchmen Trail: Absolutely spectacular for sunset, with all the pinks and oranges and reds oozing over the lake and surrounding mountain ranges. You’ll end the short (.8 miles one way) but steep (elevation gain of 420 feet) hike at one of the park’s two fire lookout towers, built in 1932, with fantastic views of Wizard Island and Crater Lake.

Note that it’s quite windy (and therefore cold!) at the top — I highly recommend you wear not only long pants and a sweatshirt, but bring along a jacket as well if you get chilly easily. This was a great hike to prepare ourselves for Mount Scott, which is twice the distance and triple the elevation gain.

Cleetwood Cove Trail: Dying to go for a swim? Beware that the lake is cold! You’ll first need to hike down Cleetwood Cove, Crater Lake’s only access to the shore.

It’s one mile down a very steep path, then one mile back up, making this hike somewhat strenuous. We didn’t have time to hike Cleetwood Cove Trail and I’m kicking myself after seeing photos of the lake up close. 🙁 Those bright turquoise waters look absolutely unreal, kind of like the ones I saw on my Canadian Rockies Banff and Jasper road trip in British Columbia, Canada!

Mount Scott: Ready to trek to the highest point in Crater Lake National Park? Being 4.4 miles roundtrip with a moderate elevation gain of around 1200 feet, you can be sure you’ll be rewarded with striking views.

You’ll be able to see the entiiiire lake at once, which is something we weren’t able to do on any overlooks from the scenic Rim Drive.

Be sure to bring along a wide-angle lens if you want to capture all the beauty in one shot, or just take a few panoramas on your phone if that’s sufficient for ya!

Note that trails at higher elevations, like Mt. Scott, can be snowbound until mid-July, so be certain to check for closures before holding this hike firm in your itinerary.  Have a Plan B juuuuust in case this moderate/strenuous hike isn’t yet available to the public just yet.

Food and Where to Eat in Crater Lake:

Food options within the park are very limited. You’ll find a small cafe at the Rim Village and Gift Shop, as well as a few spots to eat at Crater Lake Lodge. It’s a smart idea to pack a picnic lunch from a grocery store near your hotel before heading to Crater Lake for the day. Like I said, there’s really not a whole lotta options once you get into the park.

However, the food within the park at Rim Village will suffice, with sandwiches, overpriced snacks, and a few hot meals, but don’t expect a full smorgasboard of offerings. If you want a real “this-tastes-pretty-damn-fine” meal, you’ll have to head to the popular Crater Lake Lodge. The menu looked more than decent, and while prices were definitely a bit overpriced, they weren’t absolutely out-of-this-world crazy.

If all else fails, grab a pie at Beckie’s, a few miles south of the park. Famous for its homemade pies — either filled with fresh fruit, or layered with chocolate, bananas, coconut, or peanut butter, you’ll be glad you stopped by. Mmmm I’m salivating just thinking about them. Don’t miss it! Doesn’t everyone enjoy pie in lieu of lunch?

Although you won’t find many food options in Crater Lake, you’ll find more spots to grab a bite to eat near your hotel (if you’re not staying at Crater Lake), most likely. We were able to find some tasty breakfast spots in Chiloquin near our motel that were more than decent. Salted caramel stuffed soft pretzels and breakfast burritos? Please and thank you!

A note on snacks: I highly suggest you buy “normal-priced” snacks at your local grocery store before driving into the park. There’s not too too much as far as snack foods go in, around, or near the park, and whatever you do find will be waaaay over priced.

I seriously wished we had planned our snacks a bit better so we didn’t have to shell out silly money for oreos (#noshame) and granola bars. Just bring some from home for hiking, driving around the park, and noshing on between meals. You’ll be glad you did.

Our Road Trip from San Francisco to Crater Lake:

Friday after work : leave the Bay Area and drive/sleep in Redding

Saturday : finish the drive to Crater Lake, hike discovery trail, west rim viewpoints, hike watchman trail for sunset, sleep in Chiloquin

Sunday : Mount Scott hike, phantom ship hike, pinnacles hike, east rim viewpoints, drive and sleep in Ashland

Monday : drive back to the bay

What to Pack for Crater Lake:

Bring everything you need! Crater Lake is kiiiinda in the middle of nowhere, literally. But thankfully, what Crater Lake lacks in amenities, it makes up for in unrivaled beauty and history. That being said, be sure to take everything you need when visiting Crater Lake, as it’ll be difficult to find items at or near the park. Including gas for the car. 🙂

• Packable down jacket: it gets rather chilly at night.
• Reusable water bottle (preferably two)
• Hiking boots / trail runners
• Hiking backpack
• Head lamp (especially if you’ll be doing the sunset/night hike I suggested above)
• Multiple gallons of water (there’s not much as far as water stations go in the park)
• Picnic supplies and food
• Snacks for the car and hikes
• Bathing suit for jumping in the water
• Camera with wide angle lens

Other Tips/Notes for Visiting Crater Lake:

• Watch the 22 minute long film at the Visitor’s Center, which is full of great information about the formation of the lake and the history of the park.
• You probably won’t have cell coverage, so if you’re planning on using your phone GPS to help get you around, think again. There is a way around this though – you can download the map beforehand to use offline when your service is lacking (and it will lack).
• Do not attempt to pet, feed, and/or chase squirrels or chipmunks you may see in the park. It’s illegal, dangerous (to both you and the animals), and harmful.

• Keep your receipt after you pay the $25 entrance fee. The receipt is good for 7 days, and if you aren’t staying within the park and visiting for multiple days, you’ll want to store that receipt in a safe place.
• Leave no trace: whatever you bring into the park, be sure to take back out with you. This goes for garbage, food, and anything else you can think of.
• Fishing is actually encouraged at the lake! Since the fish are not native to the lake, there are no rules around the amount of fishing you can do! Bring your poles! Six species were originally introduced in the lake from 1888 to 1941, but you’ll only find Rainbow Trout and Kokanee Salmon there today. You must use artificial bait.
• Bring your camera! You don’t want to miss capturing those intense blues from all the lookout points.
• Since there are no gas stations for miles and miles from Crater Lake, you’ll want to enter the park with a full tank of gas. The nearest gas stations are roughly 35 miles away, in the towns of Chiloquin (Crater Lake Junction Travel Center) and Prospect (Prospect Service Station).

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February 7, 2021 at 7:20 am

We are unfortunately going at the beginning of June , we can’t change our reservations, I’m hoping that we can do something’s around Crater Lake but could you tell other places to go while we are there , we will be there two nights , thank you

February 9, 2021 at 10:33 am

You could go kayaking at Spring Creek Headwaters and visit Collier Memorial State Park. Hope you have a great trip and the road around Crater Lake is open for you!

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