At Crater Lake National Park, there are many different types of roads for visitors to explore. The Rim Drive is a scenic road that circles the caldera of Crater Lake, providing many different viewpoints of the lake and the surrounding area. There are also roads that lead down to the lake shore, where visitors can enjoy views of the lake from a different perspective. There are also hiking trails that lead up into the caldera, providing even more opportunities to view the lake and the surrounding landscape.
According to the National Park Service, all roads in Crater Lake National Park are open as of June 22, 2016.
Can you drive down to Crater Lake?
Crater Lake is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Oregon. The lake is situated in a caldera, or crater, formed by the collapse of a volcano. The lake is fed by rain and snowmelt, and is thus one of the clearest and deepest lakes in the world. The 33-mile Rim Drive encircles the lake, and provides numerous viewpoints and access to hiking trails. The full loop is usually open from late June to mid-October, depending on snowmelt.
Rim Drive is the perfect way to circumnavigate Crater Lake. Allow a minimum of two hours to enjoy the scenery and make stops along the way. Keep in mind that traffic goes both directions and that the road is often shared with bicyclists. If you are driving a larger vehicle or towing, allow for more time to complete the drive.
What is the best route around Crater Lake
Rim Drive is the best way 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. We highly recommend making the drive at least once during your visit to Crater Lake National Park!
If you’re looking for a great destination resort in Crater Lake Country, the Running Y Ranch is the perfect place for you. With plenty of great attractions nearby, you’ll never be bored here. Highway 97 is just 44 miles away from Crater Lake, making it a quick and easy trip.
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.
The Puʻupuaʻi Overlook and parking area are closed in order to protect the nēnē (Hawaiian goose). The Devastation Trail is partially open from the Devastation parking area, and Old Crater Rim Drive remains open.
How long does Crater Rim Drive take?
Please be aware that the lava-covered road may be impassable, so allow enough time to turn around if necessary. Also, be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no services available along the way. Thanks for enjoying this scenic drive!
The Mauna Loa Trail and backcountry wilderness area are closed due to the recent eruption. The summit and both cabins are closed due to hazards from the eruption. All park roads remain open.
What is not allowed at Crater Lake
Firearms, bicycles and motorized vehicles are not permitted in the backcountry as they disturb the local wildlife. Pets are only permitted on leash in developed areas so that they do not disturb the wildlife.
Crater Lake is an amazing place that is definitely worth spending some time at. It can be a bit of a hassle to get there, but once you do, it’s definitely worth it. You can spend a full day and night there and not get bored, as there is so much to do and see. The views are incredible, and the experience is incomparable. If you can, I would highly recommend spending at least one full day and one night at Crater Lake.
What trail has the best view of Crater Lake?
The Mount Scott Trail is a great hike that takes you to the highest point in Crater Lake. Mount Scott tops out at 8,929 feet and from the summit you have incredible views overlooking Crater Lake in the distance and the surrounding area. The hike is definitely worth it for the views alone, but it’s also a great way to get some exercise and fresh air.
You are absolutely correct! All of those cities are much closer to Crater Lake National Park than Portland is. In fact, Medford is the closest city to the park, and it’s only about a 1.5 hour drive away. Eugene and Bend are both about a 2 hour drive away, while Portland is almost 4 hours away. So if you’re looking to visit Crater Lake, you’re better off staying in one of the closer cities.
How do you get to Crater Lake in one day
If you want to spend one day at Crater Lake, the best way to do it is to take the Scenic Drive West Rim Drive and East Rim Drive. This will take you around the lake with numerous pullouts and overlooks. You can also take the Trolley Tours in the summer. Another great way to see Crater Lake is to take the Rim Village Hiking Trails. Finally, you can also take a Boat Tour or go camping at the Broken Arrow Campground.
This is a great area for birding and scenic driving. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Crater Lake National Park charges a fee to enter.
What is a problem in Crater Lake?
An invasive species is a plant that is not native to the area and that has a negative impact on the local ecosystem. Crater Lake National Park is threatened by invasive plants, but there are areas of the park that are still entirely composed of native plant species.
Please be aware that Crater Lake is a high altitude lake, so even in summer the temperatures can be cool. Be sure to bring long pants and a jacket to wear in the evening.
Warp Up
There are no roads in Crater Lake.
Crater Lake is open to the public from mid-May to mid-October. The Rim Drive is a 34-mile road that goes around the lake and provides access to many of the popular viewpoints. Other roads in the park include the East Rim Drive, West Rim Drive, North Entrance Road, and South Entrance Road.
