Crater Lake Vacation

Vacation and Holiday Ideas!

At over 1,940 feet, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States. Just knowing that adds to the thrill of visiting this popular national park. Formed over 7,700 years ago when nearby Mount Mazama erupted, Crater Lake not only offers visitors unparalleled scenic views, but also a sense of stepping back in time.

Every year approximately half a million people visit Crater Lake in Oregon to take in the beauty of the pure blue lake ringed by 2000-ft. high mountains which, many swear, looks like a painting. Around the 33-mile drive there are over 20 spots that boast awesome views, such as Kerr Notch, which provides an unmatched view of Phantom Rock.

But, witnessing its beauty isn't the only draw of Crater Lake, which is also a popular place to hike, go boating, or spend the day horseback riding.

Crater Lake Offers Incredible Trails for Hiking

From a dozen different spots it's possible to take a hike that can't be duplicated anywhere else. Trailheads lead to Mount Scott on the east side of the lake; Crater Peak on the south side is easily accessible from Rim Drive; and on the north side, Cleetwood Cove Trail leads to the lake itself. On any hike you may come across deer feeding.

From Cleetwood Cove it's also possible to visit the volcano on Wizard Island. Climb the 800-foot trail and you can see inside the 90-foot opening to the cinder cone. For those who might like to do a little fishing, there's a trail that leads to Fumarole Bay. Initially hand-stocked, it offers descendant rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. No license required and no limit on catches.

For those who want to challenge their hiking abilities, check out the nearly 9,000-foot high Mount Scott. Long, steep and full of winding turns, it offers the biggest hiking challenge. For those who persist, the rewards are views of Mount Jefferson and Mount Shasta all the way over in California, not to mention some of the best views of the lake far below.

Winter Vacations at Crater Lake

For those who would prefer to visit Crater Lake in winter, there are many exciting things to see and do. With a snowfall average of over 500 inches per year, you'll need snowshoes for many hikes. Take a guided tour, and you'll see some of the most amazing sights anywhere.

For those up to the challenge, there's an option that includes up to 33-miles of cross-country skiing around the lake. A shorter trip from Crater Lake Lodge offers a five mile round-trip that provides outstanding views of Overlook Trail.

Where to Stay at Crater Lake

The closest major cities to Crater Lake are Medford, Oregon, which is approximately 90 minutes away, and Portland, Oregon, which is located 5 hours away. If you choose to stay inside the park you have a wonderful old lodge, Crater Lake Lodge, which was originally built in 1915, and The Cabins at Mazama Village. Crater Lake Lodge is dramatically situated on the edge of the caldera, with a fabulous view of the lake. The cabins are located 7 miles from the rim of the lake, but still in the park. To make a reservation, or to check out the lodging, go to craterlakelodges.com.

You can also choose to camp at the Mazama Village Campground, located 7 miles from the rim of the lake. The campground has sites for both tents and RVs, and is open from mid-June to late September or early October, depending on the weather.

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