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. Make your own Crater Lake National Park vacation itinerary, with a little help from those that know the place like the back of their hands, by using our United States trip planner.