Discover rugged beauty on the Wizard Island Tour with Crater Lake near Aspen, Colorado. From scenic boat shuttles to rocky alpine hikes, this is a distinctive mountain adventure melding water and wilderness.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape with the ability to handle uneven, rocky terrain and moderate elevation gain.
Wildlife
History
Crater Lake’s basin formed from volcanic activity that shaped the region’s distinctive landscape thousands of years ago.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles as the fragile alpine environment is sensitive to erosion and human impact.
Crater Lake
Discover rugged beauty on the Wizard Island Tour with Crater Lake near Aspen, Colorado. From scenic boat shuttles to rocky alpine hikes, this is a distinctive mountain adventure melding water and wilderness.
Crater Lake is a guided lake tour operator based in Aspen, CO 81611. The business offers focused day trip experiences that showcase volcanic island scenery, deep lake vistas, and on water interpretation. Visitors choose from three primary trips tailored to different activity levels and schedules.
The Wizard Island Shuttle is a four hour excursion departing from Cleetwood Cove. It includes about three hours on Wizard Island for hiking, swimming, summit viewpoints, or relaxed exploration of the volcanic landscape. The Shuttle emphasizes flexible island time and scenic travel across the lake.
The Standard Lake Tour is a two hour cruise across America s deepest lake led by an Interpretive Ranger. The Standard Tour highlights iconic features such as Wizard Island and Phantom Ship while navigating pristine waters. The route and commentary focus on geology, natural history, and lake navigation; guests should anticipate a challenging hike to reach the dock.
The Wizard Island Tour is a longer, five hour offering combining a scenic two hour boat ride with three hours on Wizard Island. This tour accommodates hiking to the island summit, fishing, swimming, and extended time for photography and exploration. Trails on Wizard Island can be steep and require appropriate footwear.
Crater Lake provides clear trip durations, named itineraries, and defined departure details. By publishing specific trip lengths, departure points, and interpretive leadership, the business supplies reliable information visitors can use to plan safe and memorable lake experiences. Advance reservations and clear meeting instructions help visitors prepare for every trip ahead safely.
Tours Offered
3
Three distinct named itineraries available
Departure Dock
Cleetwood Cove
Shuttle departs from Cleetwood Cove
Trip Durations
2–5 hours
Options match different schedules
Island Access
Wizard Island
Volcanic island exploration available
Select the Wizard Island Shuttle, Standard Lake Tour, or Wizard Island Tour and plan with exact trip durations and departure details.
Use a Baby Carrier for Toddlers
The trails are rocky and not stroller-friendly; a baby carrier is recommended for families hiking with young children.
Watch Your Footing on Boulder Terrain
Sections of the trail cross over roadless boulders, increasing the risk of ankle twists—wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support.
Carry Ample Water
At nearly 9,600 feet elevation, the air is thin and dry; drink regularly to stay hydrated throughout your hike.
Prepare for Changing Weather
Mountain weather can shift rapidly; layering clothing and bringing rain gear is advisable year-round.
Hiking boots with ankle support
Provides stability on rocky, uneven trails and protects ankles from twisting.
summer
Water bottle or hydration system
Necessary to stay hydrated in high-altitude, dry conditions.
Layered clothing
Allows adjustment to rapidly changing weather and temperature shifts.
Baby carrier (if hiking with children)
Useful for hiking with toddlers on rugged trails that are not stroller accessible.