Skip to main content
Top Crater Lake National Park activities
Beyond Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park trip ideas
Crater Lake and Wizard Island seen from the Watchman Tower on a sunny day.

Things to do in  Crater Lake National Park

Into the wild blue yonder

Nearly 8,000 years ago, Mount Mazama erupted, leaving a perfect bowl inside its volcanic center. Over time, that bowl collected rain, and voilà: The crystal-clear Crater Lake was formed in what is now the state of Oregon. Thousands of years later, this spot was protected as one of the first national parks in the United States. Today, visitors flock to the deepest lake in the country with a list of things to do, from swimming in the famously bright blue water to hiking the rim of an ancient volcano.

Why you are seeing these recommendations

Top 1 attractions in Crater Lake National Park

All about Crater Lake National Park

Local Currency
US Dollar ($)
When to visit

For most visitors, when to visit Crater Lake National Park has one answer: summer. Over this peak season, which runs May through September, Rim Drive is open to vehicles, the park's facilities are operating, and the water is its signature blue. But winter has its own magic: While the road is closed to vehicles, the crowds are gone, and—if you can hit the water before it turns to ice—its blue hue contrasts quite spectacularly against the snow.

Getting around

To get around Crater Lake National Park, you’ll want a vehicle. With your own wheels, you can drive Rim Drive, check out all the viewpoints, and hit your desired trailheads whenever you like. However, in summer, the park operates the Crater Lake Trolley, which takes visitors on 2-hour tours (however, the schedule is limited). Alternatively, if you set up shop at the seasonal Crater Lake Lodge, you could technically make do with a bike or your own two feet.

Traveler tips

Don’t be shy about an early winter visit. If you can catch this park after Rim Drive closes but before everything ices over (around October/November), that seasonal window is magic. You’re free to wander the road on foot or skis, stopping whenever you like to appreciate the phenomenal view and scout for wildlife. With no traffic and barely any crowds, you can practically have the park to yourself.

en
cdcc0574-3200-4288-aa25-934947d12ba1
attraction_list
People Also Ask
Q:When is the best time to visit Crater Lake National Park?
A:

The best time to visit Crater Lake National Park is during the summer months, specifically from the end of June to mid-September. During this time, the weather is generally mild and dry, making it ideal for hiking, sightseeing, boat tours, and enjoying the park’s scenery.

Q:How much does it cost to visit Crater Lake National Park?
A:

A 7-day pass to Crater Lake National Park is US$30 per vehicle. If you’re arriving by foot or bicycle, the fee is US$15 per person. Annual passes are also available for US$55. America the Beautiful passes, which get you into every park for a year, are US$80.

Q:What are the best viewpoints at Crater Lake National Park?
A:

Some of the best viewpoints at Crater Lake National Park include Watchman Observation Station, a popular spot for sunset views and photography; Phantom Ship Overlook, where Wizard Island appears like a ship; and the back terrace of the Crater Lake Lodge, which sits right on the rim.

Q:What activities can you do at Crater Lake National Park?
A:

At Crater Lake National Park, activities include hiking, boat tours, swimming, camping, wildlife watching, and photography. In winter, most of the park shuts down to vehicles, but the main road opens for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. What’s more, many visitors stay at Crater Lake Lodge and simply enjoy the views.

Q:Can you hike around Crater Lake?
A:

You can hike around Crater Lake … sort of. The Rim Trail parallels West Rim Drive to the junction with East Rim Drive, a length of roughly 2 miles (3 kilometers). In winter, Rim Drive closes to vehicles and opens to pedestrians—but because it’s winding, you’re not exactly hiking at the edge of the lake.

Q:Is Crater Lake accessible in winter?
A:

Yes, Crater Lake National Park is accessible in winter, but some roads and facilities may be closed due to snow. Rim Drive is typically closed to vehicles in winter, but it opens for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing instead. Definitely check the park’s website for current road conditions and winter activity availability before planning your visit.

More Tours in Crater Lake National Park

Things to do near Crater Lake National Park

Popular on Viator