What is the best month to visit Crater Lake?


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.


Can you walk around Crater Lake?

NOTE: There is no hiking trail that encircles Crater Lake in the summer. In the winter, you can ski or snowshoe out and back along West Rim Drive or East Rim Drive, or all the way around the lake.


Is Crater Lake worth seeing?

Although not the largest National Park, what makes Crater Lake special, and worth checking out, is just how unique it really is. There aren't many other places where you can go for a swim in a lake in the top of an ancient volcano!


Can you go inside Crater Lake?

What part of Crater Lake can you swim in? There are only two places you can swim in Crater Lake National Park. The first is Cleetwood Cove, accessible only by hiking down the Cleetwood Cove trail. The other area to swim is off of Wizard Island, a small island in the middle of Crater Lake.


What is the best way to tour Crater Lake?

The best way to see Crater Lake is by boat! For visitors seeking to explore Wizard Island, we offer either a boat cruise or a quick shuttle ride straight to the island.


Do I need a reservation for Crater Lake?

No reservations are needed to enter the park. 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. Find out more about entrance passes below.


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 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.


Is the hike to Crater Lake difficult?

Enjoy this 12.6-mile out-and-back trail near Halfway, Oregon. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 58 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.


What month does Crater Lake close?

The park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. You can arrive at any time. No reservations are needed to enter the park. However, many of the park's roads, trails, and facilities, are closed seasonally due to snow.