National Park Guide

Crater Lake National Park

Oregon, US

The deepest lake in America fills an ancient volcanic caldera with impossibly blue water surrounded by towering cliffs.

183,224
Acres
35
Trails
1902
Established
670,000
Annual Visitors

Quick Info

Season
June - October (Rim Drive)
Entrance Fee
$30 per vehicle
Nearest Airport
Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR), 1.5 hours
Best Months
July, August, September

Highlights

  • Rim Drive
  • Wizard Island
  • Cleetwood Cove Trail
  • Phantom Ship
  • Watchman Peak Trail

Park Map

Explore trailheads, hotels, and points of interest

Top Trails

Featured trailheads in Crater Lake National Park

Garfield Peak Trail

Strenuous
3.4 miles round trip
1,010 ft gain

Cleetwood Cove Trail

Strenuous
2.2 miles round trip
700 ft gain

Watchman Peak Trail

Moderate
1.6 miles round trip
420 ft gain

Mount Scott Trail

Strenuous
5.0 miles round trip
1,250 ft gain

Godfrey Glen Trail

Easy
1.0 miles loop
50 ft gain

About Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park in southern Oregon showcases the deepest lake in the United States, formed nearly 7,700 years ago when Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed. The stunningly blue lake reaches 1,943 feet deep and is encircled by a scenic rim drive with breathtaking viewpoints, while the park offers hiking, cross-country skiing, and backcountry exploration.

In-Depth Guide

Crater Lake Guide: Best Hikes, When to Visit & Where to Stay

Plan your trip to Crater Lake National Park. Top hikes, best months to visit, where to stay, and essential tips for Oregon's deepest blue lake.

12 min read

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Where to Stay

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Crater Lake Lodge - Inside the Park

$$$

Historic 1915 lodge perched on the rim of Crater Lake with 71 rooms, a renowned dining room, and unmatched views of the deepest lake in the US.

Inside park$250-400/night
Check on Hotels.com

Running Y Ranch Resort

$$$

Ranch-style resort in Klamath Falls with a golf course, spa, indoor pool, and The Ruddy Duck restaurant, serving as a comfortable base for Crater Lake visits.

1 hour drive$180-320/night
Check on Hotels.com

Best Western Plus Olympic Inn

$$

Top-rated hotel in Klamath Falls with free daily full breakfast, seasonal outdoor pool, and a manager's reception, located 55 miles from Crater Lake.

1 hour drive$130-220/night
Check on Hotels.com

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Park Details

Highest Point
8,929 ft (Mount Scott)
Camping
Available
Wilderness Areas
Yes
Pet Friendly
Limited (developed areas only)
Region
Pacific
Established
1902