Crater Lake National Park is one of the destinations that should be on your bucket list. The lake was formed by a massive volcanic eruption 7,700 years ago which resulted in a deep hole. Over time, due to rain and snow, the lake has acquired its water.
Since Crater Lake is isolated from other water sources and igneous rock the water is clear and also has an amazing blue color. The lake is surrounded by a 53km circular road that gives amazing views from each point.
Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and one of the most beautiful places. Crater Lake National Park has always inspired artists and photographers with its breathtaking view. During winter the lake is hidden by clouds making it a wonderland. This view you can get from the Sinnott Overlook at Rim Village. On a clear day, it takes in Wizard Island, Llao Rock, and Mount Thielsen where you can see the lake clearly.
Best Time To Visit Crater Lake National Park
The best time to visit Crater Lake in July, August, and September. When the park’s roads, trails, and facilities are usually fully open. May and June can have severe snowstorms. During winter, the average daily high temperature is 50 F and the average monthly snowfall is 20 inches. If you are planning to visit the park during winter make sure to pack all the necessary winter clothes and boots.
Expenses to Visit Crater Lake National Park
Entry Fee
- 7-days pass for one private or non-commercial vehicle with a capacity of 15 passengers or less cost $30 from May 22 to October 31, $20 from November 1 to May 21.
- 7-days pass for one or two passengers on a private, non-commercial motorcycle costs $25 from May 22 to October 31, $15 from November 1 to May 21.
- 7-days pass cost $15 per individual. Admits one individual with no motor vehicle. Youth 15 and under are admitted free of charge.
- The annual pass costs $55 and is valid at Crater Lake National Park as well as Lava Beds National Monument.
Commercial Vehicles
- Commercial vehicle with capacity of 1 to 6 passengers cost $25 plus $15 per passenger
- Commercial vehicle capacity of 7 to 15 passengers cost $75
- Commercial vehicle capacity of 16 to 25 passengers cost $100
- Commercial vehicle capacity of 26 or more passengers cost $200
Things To Do in Crater Lake National Park:
Drive Through The Rim
Rim Drive is a scenic highway in Crater Lake National Park. It is a 33-mile loop that follows the caldera rim around Crater Lake. There are more than 30 viewpoints and pull-offs you can find breathtaking views of the lake. There are also picnic areas, and you can even go for short trails through the forest and get to see the wildflowers. The park’s north entrance and West Rim Drive will be closed from mid-October until mid-May due to the snowfall.
Go Down To The Lake
Crater Lake is the most attractive spot obviously. The only way to access the lakeshore is by hiking the Cleetwood Cove Trail. Once you get to the lake, there are plenty of things to do on Crater Lake. If you are going in the summer, you can go boating, but private boats or flotation devices are not allowed. You can even go for a Wizard Island tour where you can go hiking and even swim on the island.
Explore the Wizard Island
Wizard Island is a volcanic cinder cone that forms an island at Crater Lake. You can tour Wizard Island by Boat. Wizard Island is a 763-foot cinder cone created when Crater Lake first filled with water after the volcano collapsed. Once you reach the island, you can go for a hike to the island summit or swim through the shore. You get a beautiful view of the lake at eye-level.
Hike to Garfield Peak
Garfield Peak is the most popular hike in Crater Lake National Park. It’s about a 3.6-mile trail with an amazing view. The views are perfect for your Instagram with the lake surrounding landscape. If you like to go for a short hike you can choose Watchman Peak, which gives a panoramic view perfect for watching the sunset.
Hike to Cleetwood Cove Trail
Cleetwood cove trail is a must-do hike inside Crater Lake National Park. This is the only trail that leads down to the bottom of the lake and ends at the shores. As you hike through the trail you get a better view of the lake and you can even click some pictures. Once you reach the bottom you can enjoy the beauty of the lake that is truly satisfying.