Crater Lake National Park trip planner

Reaching a depth of 592 m (1,943 ft), Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States. But that alone isn't what makes Crater Lake National Park so special. Rather, the setting of a cobalt expanse of water sitting in a crater left behind by a blown volcano (with the sheer cliffs of the rim falling nearly 600 m [2,000 ft] right into the lake) is what's garnered the deep admiration of visitors. The caldera rim sits at an elevation of 2,100 to 2,400 m (7,000 to 8,000 ft), and some of the heavy snow that falls throughout the winter remains into early summer to create a sharp contrast with the blue skies and warmer temperatures. The rim drive around the park lets you photograph the lake from various angles with Wizard Island sitting in the middle of it. Hiking trails take you to scenic lookouts on peaks surrounding the caldera. Although the park remains open year-round, snow on the road usually restricts vehicle access from November into June. In the build up to your vacation in Crater Lake National Park, plan trip itinerary minutiae using the visitor reviews, staff write-ups, and custom search fields on our United States vacation route planner.