Crater Lake is a beautiful, serene location that is perfect for a scenic drive. The drive around the lake is about 33 miles long and takes about 2 hours to complete. This is the perfect activity for a sunny day and is a great way to take in all the natural beauty that Crater Lake has to offer.
The drive around Crater Lake is about 33 miles long.
How long does it take to drive around Crater Lake National Park?
If you’re planning on circumnavigating Geneva Lake, allow for at least two hours. This will give you time to enjoy the sights and take any necessary stops. If you’re driving a larger vehicle or towing something, plan for more time.
Rim Drive is an incredibly scenic highway that loops around Crater Lake National Park in southern Oregon. The drive is 33 miles long and offers stunning views of the lake, mountains, and forests. If you’re looking for a scenic drive in Oregon, Rim Drive is a must-do!
Can you drive completely around Crater Lake
We drove the 33 mile Rim Road around Crater Lake and it was a great way to see the lake. We started early in the morning and it was a great way to see the sunrise. We would recommend doing this clockwise as there are lots of lookout points and overlooks which allow you magnificent views with VERY LITTLE EFFORT.
Crater Lake is definitely worth the effort to get to and spend some time at. The views are incredible, and it’s just a really peaceful and relaxing place. If you can, definitely try to stay for at least a day and a night, so you can experience it both during the day and at night. Keep in mind though that the park can be very busy during the summer, so try to come early or during the week if you can.
Can you see Crater Lake without paying?
All visitors at Crater Lake National Park are required to pay an entrance fee. Please be prepared to show your physical pass or digital pass on your mobile device. Photos of physical passes will not be accepted.
The greatest diameter of the lake is 6 miles, the shoreline circumference being approximately 20 miles. The lake is quite large and has a very long shoreline. It would be a great place to go for a swim or a hike.
Can you do Crater Lake same day?
Crater Lake National Park definitely has more to offer than just the lake itself, but the lake is definitely the highlight. You can easily complete the scenic drive around the lake in half a day, which leaves plenty of time for a couple of short hikes and a fairly complete visit to the park.
We highly recommend taking the Rim Drive to see Crater Lake from every angle! The 33-mile road loops around the caldera and has 8 main viewpoints and 15 turnout vista points, each offering more stunning views than the last. You won’t be disappointed with the views from any of the vantage points.
Is it worth it to drive to Crater Lake
Crater Lake National Park is Oregon’s only national park and is definitely worth the effort to get there. The views of the lake are breathtaking and there are two easy ways to access the park from Seattle. The fastest way is down I-5 through Eugene and the other takes you along Oregon State Hwy 97 past Bend, Oregon. Whichever route you choose, you won’t be disappointed!
During the winter months, all overnight vehicles must be left at Park Headquarters located three miles below the rim. In the summer, vehicles may be left at designated trailhead parking areas or nearby pullouts. A valid park entrance pass and backcountry camping parking permit must be displayed on your dashboard.
Is Crater Lake Rim Drive one way?
Rim Drive is one of the most scenic drives in Oregon, circumnavigating Crater Lake. The road is very narrow with tight curves and no shoulders, making it one of the most challenging drives in the state. Despite its challenges, the drive is well worth it for its stunning views. As of right now, Rim Drive is open to vehicles.
We regret to inform you that the resort will be closed for the winter season of 2022-2023. We will be reopening in June 2023.
What time of day is best to see Crater Lake
If you want to avoid the crowds at Crater Lake National Park, be sure to arrive before 9 am. The park receives an annual average of 43 feet of snow, so it’s not uncommon for the lake to be hidden from view by snow clouds.
If you are looking to experience all that Crater Lake has to offer, the best time to visit is during the summer months. From July through mid-September, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for hiking, camping, and enjoying all the outdoor activities the park has to offer. Winter does have its own beauty at Crater Lake, but unless you enjoy winter sports, the summer is the best time to visit.
How do you dress for Crater Lake?
Crater Lake is a great place to visit in the summer, but be sure to bring a jacket for the evening hours! The temperatures can get quite cool at night.
Crater Lake is home to three waterfalls, Vidae Falls, Plaikni Falls, and Duwee Falls. While none of the falls are particularly large, they are all beautiful and worth a visit. Each falls is unique and offers different views and experiences.
Final Words
The average drive around Crater Lake is about two and a half hours.
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, such as the route taken, the time of day, and the weather conditions. However, as a general guide, it is possible to drive around Crater Lake in approximately two hours.
