Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park is one of the highlights of central Oregon, and many people come to Umpqua’s Last Resort specifically because it’s close to this pristine lake. But what makes it unique? Why is Crater Lake a place people want to visit?
This Crater Lake guide will run through some of the must-do attractions when you enter the national park. We’ll also go into depth (pun intended) about the lake itself and how you should plan your trip.
Crater Lake Facts
What makes this lake so interesting that it deserves its own national park? Well, a couple of things.
It’s the deepest lake in America!
With water reaching a depth of 1943 feet, Crater Lake is incredibly deep! Not only is it the deepest lake in the states, but it’s the 9th deepest lake in the world.
How did it get so deep? The lake formed when Mount Mazama, a volcano that can still be seen today, erupted and collapsed in on itself, creating a deep depression for rainwater to gradually fill up. Snowmelt and rain are what fill up the lake today.
The lake’s temperature doesn’t fluctuate as drastically as you’d think.
Because of the lake’s impressive depth, the water temperature hovers between 38 degrees Fahrenheit to 62 degrees Fahrenheit. The water doesn’t freeze over even in the winter!
No rivers lead out of the lake!
This is especially unique when you think about it! Most lakes have rivers that flow in or out of them to circulate the water, but Crater Lake doesn’t have this!
The water is so pure and changes colors depending on the weather we have.
You can learn even more about the lake by clicking the button below!
Crater Lake Hikes
Crater Lake has 33 miles of shoreline to explore and snap pictures of! Here are some of the popular mountain peaks and trailheads you have to look forward to!
They’ll all give you great views of the lake from different points on the different mountain peaks. While none of these individual trails are that difficult for an experienced hiker, they still are a great way to adventure in Oregon! If you have any questions about the best Crater Lake hikes, don’t hesitate to ask us!
Discovery Point Trail
Length: 2.4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Plaikni Falls Trailhead
Length: 2.0 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Cleetwood Cove Trail
Length: 2.0 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Mount Scott
Length: 4.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Garfield Peak
Length: 3.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Crater Lake Water Sports
Unfortunately, visitors cannot bring private boats or water equipment to Crater Lake. But you can swim in specific areas! Just be warned, it’s cold water, only rising to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you are interested in water sports, you should check out some of the neighboring bodies of water, like Diamond Lake, Lost Creek Lake, and some of the nearby rivers.
Wizard Island
Wizard Island is the only piece of land resting in Crater Lake. As such, it makes for a pretty interesting day trip for those who want to get out on the water and explore some of the quieter sections of the national park!
Prices
Adults: $55
Children (3-12): $37
Infants: (2 and under): They are not allowed on the boat.
Go for a Crater Lake Boat Tour, and enjoy the happy isolation in the middle of the cool water. To get to the boat tour docks, you’ll need to hike down Cleetwood Cove Trail, so be ready for that!
Fishing Crater Lake
While you may not be able to ride out on the lake, you can still shore fish! The lake is stocked with Kokanee Salmon and Rainbow Trout. If you are an avid fisherman, you’ll have a ton of fun hooking the fish in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
Crater Lake is a beautiful place to spend a day or two! No matter what kinds of activities you thrive on, you’ll be able to enjoy them here.
If you are looking for a place to stay, you should consider Umpqua’s Last Resort. This beautiful campground and cabin retreat is a central hub to the best attractions in Umpqua National Forest.
