Crater Lake, located in southern Oregon, is one of the most iconic and breathtaking natural wonders in the United States. It is about a two hour drive from Grants Pass Oregon allowing for an easy one day adventure from home.
When visiting Crater Lake you may also want to consider Stopping by Union Creek and see the Natural Bridge:
Scenic Getaway: A Day Trip to Union Creek and the Natural Bridge
Or for an extend trip maybe visiting the waterfall highway:
Day or Two Trip: A Journey Along Oregon’s Waterfall Highway 138
There is plenty of sight seeing and enjoyable things to do at Crater Lake, information below with plenty of pictures:
Location:
Crater Lake Lodge (South Rim Village) Google Map:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/1TbWh73SCLsmXqRv7
Carter Lake Visitor Center Information:
https://www.nps.gov/crla/index.htm
What Is Crater Lake?
* Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, one of the deepest in the world at 1,943 feet.
* It was formed about 7,700 years ago after the violent eruption and collapse of Mount Mazama, a volcano in the Cascade Range.
* The lake is known for its vivid blue color and remarkable clarity, due to its lack of inlets—the water comes only from rain and snow.
Crater Lake National Park:
* Established in 1902, it’s Oregon’s only national park.
* Covers over 183,000 acres of forest, peaks, and high desert.
* Popular features:
◦ Rim Drive: A 33-mile scenic loop around the lake with over 30 overlooks.
◦ Wizard Island: A volcanic cinder cone island that you can visit by boat.
◦ Phantom Ship: A natural rock formation resembling a ghostly ship.
◦ Cleetwood Cove Trail: The only trail that leads down to the lake for swimming or boat access.
◦ Crater Lake Lodge: A historic hotel on the rim offering spectacular views.
Top Attractions:
* Rim Drive: 33-mile scenic drive with 30+ overlooks.
* Wizard Island: Volcanic island accessible via boat tours.
* Phantom Ship: Rock formation resembling a ghost ship.
* Cleetwood Cove Trail: Only trail down to the lake.
Hiking Trails:
* Cleetwood Cove Trail (1.1 miles down): Access to lake.
* Garfield Peak (3.4 miles RT): Stunning views from the rim.
* Watchman Peak (1.6 miles RT): Great for sunset views.
* Mount Scott (4.4 miles RT): Highest point in the park.
Lodging & Camping:
* Crater Lake Lodge: Historic lodge, open late May to mid-October.
* Mazama Village Campground: Reservations recommended.
* Lost Creek Campground: Tent-only, first-come-first-served.
Park Hours, Fees, & Seasons:
* Open year-round, but many roads/trails close in winter.
* Entrance Fee: $30/vehicle (valid 7 days), or use an America the Beautiful Pass.
* Visitor Centers: Steel Visitor Center (open in winter), Rim Village (summer).
Park Overview:
* Crater Lake National Park covers 183,000 acres.
* Features volcanic peaks, old-growth forest, Rim Drive, and hiking areas.
* Main entrances: South (OR-62), North (seasonal), West (seasonal).
