Best Things to Do in Crater Lake

Be sure to check out the Pacific Northwest Region page for other ideas around the best things to do in Crater Lake National Park!

*Last updated 9/6/2023

 

Best Things to Do in Crater Lake National Park

Table of Contents

  1. How Long to Stay at Crater Lake National Park
  2. About Crater Lake National Park
  3. Crater Lake Visitor Centers
  4. Hiking in Crater Lake National Park
  5. Also Consider Nearby

How Long to Stay at Crater Lake National Park

I’m not sure it would ever get old looking out into those brilliant blue waters. The time I went, we were on a time crunch and were only able to spend a few hours. If that is all you have, it is still well worth the stop to get a view of Crater Lake. However next, I will definitely spend significantly more time. I’d love to take in a sunrise and sunset of the lake, as well as do some hiking, and two or three full days would be a great opportunity to do those things.

About Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake NP is one of those places where the pictures are amazing and the views in person live up to the expectations. Nestled inside Crater Lake, rising from the blue waters is Wizard Island.

Crater Lake was transformed into its current state when the volcano erupted around 7,700 years ago. Also, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the US at nearly 1,950 feet deep. Additionally, the water is extremely clear as it is filled largely from ice and snow melt.

Crater Lake Visitor Centers

There are two National Park Visitor Centers, which are only about 3 miles apart. First, is Steel Visitor Center, which is located in a historic building. However, it is currently closed through the end of 2024. Second, is Rim Village Visitor Center, which is closer to the lake itself and nearby Garfield Peak Trailhead and Discovery Point Trailhead.

Hiking in Crater Lake National Park

Unfortunately, we did not have a lot of time to hike other than hiking around the visitor center area and driving to some different viewpoints. Also, check out the Crater Lake NP hiking page for ideas. Additionally, the Pacific Crest Trail traverses through Crater Lake National Park. However, some of the roads to access these trails are closed in winter. Listed below are some of the more popular trails.

  • Cleetwood Cove Trail (2.2 miles)
  • Garfield Peak Trail (3.6 miles)
  • The Watchman Peak Trail (1.6 miles)
  • Discovery Point Trail (2.0 miles)
  • Mount Scott Trail (4.4 miles)
  • Plaikni Falls Trail (2.0 miles)

Also Consider Nearby

Also consider visiting Redwoods NP in Northern California or other sites in the Pacific Northwest region.