Crater Lake

Crater Lake, Oregon, USA
42.9445872° N, -122.1090039° W
Crater Lake, Oregon, USA

Crater Lake is one of America’s most mesmerizing natural wonders—and it’s waiting for you in southern Oregon. Formed over 7,700 years ago by the collapse of Mount Mazama, this pristine caldera lake boasts the deepest, clearest water in the United States. With no rivers flowing in or out, its sapphire-blue color comes from pure snowmelt and rain, offering a mirror-like clarity that’s both rare and unforgettable. Nestled in the heart of Crater Lake National Park, the lake is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, evergreen forests, and volcanic formations, making it a dream destination for travelers seeking peace, adventure, and jaw-dropping beauty.

Visitors can circle the rim by car or bike, take in panoramic views from Rim Village, or hop aboard a boat tour to explore Wizard Island. Popular hiking trails like Cleetwood Cove and Watchman Peak offer everything from serene lake access to high-elevation vistas. Whether you’re paddling in clear waters, stargazing beneath some of the darkest skies in the country, or lacing up for the Crater Lake Rim Run, there’s no shortage of outdoor experiences to enjoy.

With events like Ride the Rim and seasonal ranger-led snowshoe walks, Crater Lake is a year-round retreat for nature lovers. Book a lakeside vacation rental and discover why Crater Lake is considered one of the most breathtaking spots in the Pacific Northwest.

Best time to go
The best time to visit Crater Lake is from late June through September, when all park roads, trails, and facilities are typically open. Summer delivers ideal conditions for hiking, scenic drives along Rim Drive, and boat tours on the lake. The weather is usually sunny and mild, with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s°F, perfect for exploring without heavy layers. July and August are peak months, so book accommodations early. If you prefer fewer crowds but still want access to major attractions, consider visiting in early fall (late September to early October), when the air is crisp and the colors vibrant. While winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland ideal for snowshoeing and solitude, access is limited to the south entrance, and Rim Drive is closed. No matter the season, always check road conditions and park alerts before traveling to ensure a smooth visit.
Water Quality
Crater Lake is world-renowned for its remarkable water clarity and deep sapphire-blue color. With no rivers flowing in or out, the lake’s water is entirely fed by snow and rain, creating a closed basin that filters out sediments and pollutants naturally. This purity allows sunlight to penetrate deeply—up to 100 feet or more—making Crater Lake one of the clearest lakes in the world. Its iconic blue hue results from the way water absorbs and scatters sunlight; blue wavelengths are reflected back to the surface, while others are absorbed. The lake’s clarity is routinely monitored by scientists and consistently ranks among the highest globally. This pristine condition, combined with the dramatic volcanic cliffs and evergreen forests surrounding it, gives the lake a surreal, almost otherworldly appearance. Whether you’re viewing it from Rim Drive or gazing from a boat, Crater Lake’s color and clarity are unforgettable natural marvels.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Hiking

Islands

Wizard Island is the most iconic island in Crater Lake. It’s a volcanic cinder cone that rises about 763 feet above the lake’s surface. Visitors can access Wizard Island via boat tours during the summer months and hike to its summit for panoramic views. It also features the Wizard Island Summit Trail and the Fumarole Bay Trail, offering hiking, fishing, and unique geological exploration.

Phantom Ship is the smaller, jagged island resembles a ghostly sailing ship, especially in foggy or low-light conditions. Made of erosion-resistant lava, it’s much older than Wizard Island and stands out due to its eerie silhouette. While you can’t land on Phantom Ship, it’s a popular photo subject, especially from Sun Notch Viewpoint.

Nearby amenities

Start your Crater Lake adventure at the Steel Visitor Center near the south entrance. Open year-round, it’s the perfect place to pick up maps, watch the park film, and orient yourself. In summer, head to the Rim Village Visitor Center for jaw-dropping lake views and a quick stop at the gift shop.

Next, hit the trails. Park at the Watchman Peak Trailhead for a short, rewarding hike with sweeping vistas, or head to Garfield Peak for a moderate climb starting from Rim Village. If you want to touch the water, arrive early to grab a spot at Cleetwood Cove Trailhead, the only trail with lake access.

For a longer stay, reserve a spot at Mazama Campground (open in summer), which features over 200 sites and amenities. For a quieter setting, consider Lost Creek Campground, a tent-only, first-come, first-served spot along East Rim Drive.

After your hike, refuel with a lakefront meal at the Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room, perfect for a sit-down experience with spectacular views. For something casual, grab a burger at Annie Creek Restaurant in Mazama Village. If you’re heading southwest, don’t miss Beckie’s Café in Union Creek—famous for its home-style meals and homemade pies. North of the park, Diamond Lake Resort offers a relaxed vibe and several dining options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Crater Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Crater Lake, located in Oregon’s Crater Lake National Park, boasts a remarkable depth, reaching approximately 1,943 feet (592 meters). It stands as the deepest lake in the United States and one of the deepest worldwide.

  • The best time to visit Crater Lake for pleasant weather and road accessibility is typically from late June to early October. During this period, you can enjoy clearer skies and milder temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

  • Swimming in Crater Lake is discouraged due to its frigid temperatures. The lake is primarily filled with snowmelt, resulting in chilly waters, even during summer. However, you can appreciate its beauty from various viewpoints and engage in other activities like hiking and photography.

  • Crater Lake National Park will temporarily close all lake access from 2026 through 2028 to complete a major rehabilitation project on the Cleetwood Cove Trail—the only legal route down to the lake’s shoreline. This closure means no swimming, shoreline access, or boat tours will be available during that time. The trail has suffered severe wear and damage due to years of heavy use and Oregon’s harsh winter conditions. Erosion, failing retaining walls, and rockfall risks have made the trail unsafe. In addition, the park’s marina infrastructure, including the bulkhead and dock system, has deteriorated since its failure in 2016, and the aging composting restrooms are no longer adequate for the volume of summer visitors.

    To address these issues, the National Park Service will rebuild the 1.1-mile trail, stabilize slopes, replace marina facilities, and upgrade restroom systems. Due to Crater Lake’s high snowfall, construction is limited to short summer seasons, extending the timeline over multiple years. Although visitors won’t be able to access the lake during the closure, iconic viewpoints from Rim Drive and Rim Village remain open, offering stunning vistas of the lake’s brilliant blue waters and Wizard Island. The Cleetwood Cove Trail and full lake access are expected to reopen in summer 2029. If up-close lake access is on your bucket list, plan your visit before the end of the 2025 summer season.