Crater Lake National Park is located in southern Oregon. The park is open all year, but some areas may be inaccessible due to weather conditions. The north entrance to Crater Lake is typically open from late May to early October.
Yes, the north entrance to Crater Lake is open year-round.
Is the north entrance to Crater Lake open now?
We regret to inform you that the ski resort will be closed for the 2022-2023 winter season. This decision was made in order to protect the safety of our guests and employees, and to ensure that we can provide the best possible experience for everyone. Thank you for your understanding, and we hope to see you again soon.
The Crater Lake National Park is open year-round and is accessible from the south (Klamath Falls) and north (Eugene, Portland). To reach the park from the south, take Highway 97 to Highway 62 and the park’s South Entrance. To reach the park from the north, leave Interstate 5 just south of Eugene.
Which entrance is open at Crater Lake
Each winter, deep snow forces the closure of Crater Lake National Park’s Rim Drive and North Entrance Road to automobiles. In recent years, the closure dates have been as follows:
Year North Entrance & West Rim Drive East Rim Drive
2009 October 27 October 13
2010 November 3 October 19
2011 November 2 October 18
2012 November 1 October 23
2013 October 31 October 22
2014 October 30 October 21
2015 October 29 October 20
2016 October 27 October 18
2017 October 26 October 17
2018 October 25 October 16
2019 October 24 October 15
2020 October 22 October 13
2021 October 21 October 12
2022 October 20 October 11
If you’re coming from the west or south, the most convenient way to get to Crater Lake National Park is on Ore 62. The park is located in the southwest corner of the state, so this route will take you right through it.
What time should you get to Crater Lake?
If you want to avoid the crowds at Crater Lake National Park, arrive before 9 am. The annual average snowfall in the park is 43 feet, so the lake is often hidden from view by snow clouds.
There is no need to make reservations in advance to enter the park. You can simply show up and enjoy the facilities and attractions the park has to offer.
When should you not go to Crater Lake?
The park has more than 90 miles of hiking trails, but in May and June they are typically covered by deep snow. When snow-covered, most trails are either too difficult to follow, or too dangerous.
If you’re looking to spend a day exploring Crater Lake, there are plenty of things to do. Start by driving around the lake on the scenic West Rim Drive and East Rim Drive. There are plenty of pullouts and overlooks along the way to stop and take in the views. Then, take a trolley tour to learn more about the history and geology of the area. Rim Village Hiking Trails offer a great way to stretch your legs and take in even more of the stunning scenery. Boat tours are also available for a unique way to see the lake up close. Finally, end your day with a campsite at Broken Arrow Campground for a truly memorable experience.
Can you drive through Crater Lake
Rim Drive is the road that encircles Crater Lake in Oregon. It is a popular driving route with tourists and locals alike. The road is narrow and windy, and does not have shoulders. It is also often shared with bicyclists. Because of these factors, allow a minimum of two hours to circumnavigate the lake by car or motorcycle. If you are driving a larger vehicle or towing a trailer, allow more time. Traffic goes both directions on Rim Drive.
Rim Drive is one of the most scenic drives in Oregon, and offers stunning views of Crater Lake. The road is 33 miles long and has many tight curves, so it is recommended that drivers use caution. There is also no shoulder on the road, so drivers should be aware of their surroundings at all times. Despite these challenges, Rim Drive is a beautiful drive that is well worth the effort.
What dates and hours is Crater Lake open?
The center is open year-round daily, except for Christmas Day, December 25.
From late April through early November, the hours are 9 am to 5 pm.
From early November to late April, the hours are 10 am to 4 pm.
Firearms, bicycles, and motorized vehicles are not permitted in the backcountry for the safety of both animals and humans. Pets are permitted on leash in developed areas only so that they does not disturb the local wildlife. Pets often threaten small wildlife and even well-behaved domestic pets leave scents that disturb the local wildlife.
How far is it to walk to Crater Lake
The Cleetwood Cove trail is the only trail that provides access to the shore of Crater Lake. The views from the trail are spectacular, and hikers can access the lake at the bottom of the trail. The trail is steep, and it can take 15-25 hours to complete the 22-mile round trip. There is an elevation gain of 700 feet.
The entry fee for Crater Lake National Park is $30 per car in summer and $20 per car in winter. Passes can be purchased in advance at Recreation.gov, along with the $55 annual pass or the $15 snowmobile fee.
What should I wear to Crater Lake?
Crater Lake is a beautiful place to visit, but it can be quite cold, even in summer. Make sure to pack some warm clothes for the evening.
The drive from Hilo to the end of the road at Kalapana takes about 90 minutes to two hours, depending on how often you stop and how far you hike. The road descends 3,700 feet (1,128 m) to the coast, and the lava has covered 10 miles of the road since 1986. The last stop on the road is the black sand beach at Punalu’u, where you can see turtles basking in the sun.
Final Words
Yes, the north entrance to Crater Lake is open.
Yes, the crater lake north entrance is open.
