Is Crater Lake worth the drive?


Is Crater Lake worth the drive? It really isn't until you reach the rim of the crater, and look down nearly 1,000 feet to see that a magnificent blue lake, 6 miles across, fills the top of the mountain, that you realize how unique and special Crater lake is, and why it is indeed worth visiting!


Does Crater Lake get crowded?

Last year, Crater Lake National Park was the quietest it's been in a decade. A total of 527,259 people visited the park in 2022, according to National Park Service data, a 19% decrease from 2021 and a 30% decrease from 2016, when a record 756,344 people visited the beautiful blue-hued lake in southern Oregon.


What is not allowed at Crater Lake?

Firearms, bicycles, and motorized vehicles are not permitted in the backcountry. Pets are permitted on leash in developed areas only. Pets often threaten small wildlife.


How much is the Crater Lake Trolley?

The cost for The Shuttle from Klamath Falls is $40 for adults and $30 for seniors and children ages 2-12. This price is not included in the Crater Lake Trolley tour price. Tickets for the trolley tour are $27 for adults, $24 for seniors, $17 for children ages 6-13, and children under five ride the trolley for free.


Can you touch Crater Lake?

Cleetwood Cove Trail is the only legal access to the shore of Crater Lake. Depending on snow conditions, the trail is usually open from mid-June to late October. Swimming, wading and fishing are permitted in the lake.


Can you see Crater Lake without paying?

Although an entrance fee or NPS pass is required to enter Crater Lake National Park, vehicle reservations are not needed. You are encouraged to pay the entrance fee or purchase an NPS pass before arriving to save time, but you may also purchase passes at any entrance station upon arrival.


Is the Crater Lake trolley worth it?

A very worthwhile experience. The trolly tour was the best part of the trip wish they were at more of the parks! Filled with great information and a wonderful way to see/learn about the park. A Must if you visit the park sit back relax and enjoy the views.


How long does it take to drive Crater Rim Drive?

This 38-mile (61 km) round-trip drive descends 3,700 feet (1,128 m) to the coast and ends where lava has covered 10 miles of road since 1986. Allow 90 minutes to two hours round-trip, depending on how often you stop and how far you hike.


What is the best way to see Crater Lake National Park?

Crater Lake is designed to be visited by car. Not counting the time that you'll spend at the various viewpoints, the lake can be circumnavigated in an hour along the 33-mile Rim Drive, the highest paved road in Oregon. The full loop usually is open from late June to mid-October, depending on snowmelt.


What is special about Crater Lake?

Widely known for its rich blue color and extreme clarity, which averages 102 ft (31m) deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States. It is one of the top ten deepest in the world.


What is the best month to visit Crater Lake?

The most popular months to visit Crater Lake are July, August, and September. That's when the park's roads, trails, and facilties are usually fully open. May and June are months of transition in the park, as winter slowly gives way to summer.


Why do people like to visit Crater Lake?

The Caldera is Unlike Anything You've Ever Witnessed. Crater lake is the deepest lake in America (1,949 ft at it's deepest point) and was formed by a collapsed volcano over 7,700 hundred years ago. On a sunny day while taking a boat tour, you can see over 100 feet down into the water.


Is Crater Lake expensive?

A seven-day pass for pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists, or members of non-commercial organized groups is currently $5.00. Children under 16 years old are entitled to free entry. The Crater Lake annual pass, valid for entry to the park for one full year from the date of purchase, is $20.


Is it worth it to drive to Crater Lake?

Conclusion: Is Crater Lake worth visiting? Yes I think that Crater Lake is worth the extra driving to reach. It is the deepest lake in the U.S. and a very unique place to visit. If you visit in the summer you can go on an epic boat ride around the lake and visit the island, or swim.


How much time do you need at Crater Lake?

Of course, with so many hiking trails and blue beauty views that'll never bore you there's no punishment in staying a bit longer than 2 days. In fact, you could even hike some miles of that famous Pacific Crest Trail if that's something you've always wanted to do. The PCT leads in the valley right next to the crater.


Can you walk Crater Rim Drive?

Check out this 2.1-mile out-and-back trail near Volcano, Hawaii. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 50 min to complete. This is a very popular area for walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.


Is 1 day enough for Crater Lake?

Is 1 day enough for Crater Lake? Yes! I spent 1 day in Crater Lake and I feel like it was a good amount of time to spend in the park. The park isn't too large like other national parks so it is very doable to drive around and do a few activities and enjoy your time at the lake.


How long is the drive around Crater Lake?

Crater Lake is designed to be visited by car. Not counting the time that you'll spend at the various viewpoints, the lake can be circumnavigated in an hour along the 33-mile Rim Drive, the highest paved road in Oregon. The full loop usually is open from late June to mid-October, depending on snowmelt.


Does Crater Lake have waterfalls?

There are three primary waterfalls within the park's borders including Vidae Falls, Plaikni Falls & Duwee Falls. Vidae Falls is the easiest to access as it is a roadside waterfall that cascades 100 feet down the outside of the caldera to a crystal-clear pool of water.