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Crater Lake National Park adventures

Crater Lake National Park Adventures

Crater Lake National Park is famed for its stunningly deep blue lake that fills the caldera of a collapsed volcano, offering breathtaking views and a multitude of outdoor activities.

183,224
Acres Protected
90
Miles of Trails
700,000
Annual Visitors
1902
Year Established

About Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park
 

Crater Lake National Park, located in southern Oregon, is centered around its namesake Crater Lake. This geological feature was formed by the collapse of a volcano, Mount Mazama, approximately 7,700 years ago. The lake is renowned for its clear, deep blue waters, making it one of the deepest lakes in the world. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and winter sports. Historically, the land has been a significant area for Native American tribes, who have long held the lake as a spiritual site. Visitors are often struck by the park's unique ecology, which ranges from old-growth forests to alpine meadows. Major points of interest include the Rim Drive, a scenic route encircling the lake, and Wizard Island, a cinder cone within the lake. Crater Lake National Park attracts nature lovers and adventurers seeking the tranquility and grandeur of this remarkable landscape.

Highlights

Highlight

Rim Drive, offering stunning panoramic views of Crater Lake

Highlight

Wizard Island, a volcanic cinder cone within Crater Lake

Highlight

The Pinnacles, unique volcanic spires formed from fossil fumaroles

Highlight

Cleetwood Cove Trail, the park's only access to the lake's shore

Notable Natural Features

Rim Drive

A 33-mile loop that offers stunning views of Crater Lake and access to many of the park’s highlights.

Wizard Island

A cinder cone rising from the western side of Crater Lake with trails that provide views from its summit.

The Pinnacles

Dramatic spires formed from volcanic ash that has eroded over millennia.