Crater Lake National Park Tours and Activities

Crater Lake National Park featuring landscape views, mountains and a lake or waterhole

Crater Lake National Park featuring landscape views, island views and mountains

Crater Lake National Park which includes mountains and landscape views

Crater Lake National Park which includes a lake or waterhole, mountains and landscape views

Crater Lake National Park which includes a lake or waterhole, landscape views and mountains

Visit Crater Lake National Park

Activities

Come at least once to see the pristine blue water, snowy bluffs and alpine splendour of this park. Return again to immerse yourself in its beauty.

Crater Lake National Park is a natural experience that creates lifelong devotees. People fall in love with this landscape and the remarkable lake at its center. Navigate the placid waters of Crater Lake on a boat tour. Cast a fishing line into a deep reserve filled with trout and salmon. Inhale the crisp, piney air of this forested wonderland.

One of the deepest lakes in the world, Crater Lake began with the eruption of Mount Mazama over 7,000 years ago. The inside of the volcano collapsed into a broad caldera now filled with the enormous lake. Look for Wizard Island, a cinder cone rising from the lake.

Bring a bike and climb hills, speed through turns or leisurely ride on open stretches of Crater Lake’s paved roads. Hike along paths full of pine trees, leafy plants and boldly colored wildflowers. Trails range from short mile jaunts to the entire Pacific Coast Trail.

With an average elevation of over 6,000 feet (1,800 meters), Crater Lake is snowy during winter. For the adventurous, this is a time for snowshoe tours and snowmobile rides. Be sure to check weather conditions and ranger guide availability before you plan a trip. From late spring to early fall, conditions are perfect for hiking and observing vegetation growth.

Visit one of several restaurants in the park or bring your own lunch. Find a pullout along one of the switchbacks and set up a sandwich bar on a picnic table or eat overlooking the lake’s rim. Spend the afternoon looking for wildlife.

To reach Crater Lake National Park, you’ll need to use a motor vehicle at some point. Fly into Medford Airport and rent a car to make the 80-mile (130-kilometer) drive to the park. Or, catch a train to Klamath Falls and rent a car or catch the seasonal shuttle bus for the 77-mile (123-kilometer) drive to the park. Extend your appreciation of this serene setting by staying overnight. Get comfortable at a lodge inside the park or wake up with the birds at a campground. Call ahead for accommodation pricing and availability.

U.S. national parks offer affordable adventures for all types of travelers. Enjoy your visit to Crater Lake National Park.

Popular places to visit

Rim Visitor Center

Explore the great outdoors at Rim Visitor Center, a lovely green space in Crater Lake. Wander the lakeside or discover the area's volcano viewpoints.

Crater Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Crater Lake during your travels in Crater Lake. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the area's volcano viewpoints.

Natural Bridge Trail

You can take time to visit Natural Bridge Trail during your travels to Prospect. Wander the lakeside and forests in this relaxing area.

Diamond Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Diamond Lake during your travels in Diamond Lake. Wander the lakeside or discover the area's volcano viewpoints.

Annie Creek Canyon Trail

You can take time to visit Annie Creek Canyon Trail during your travels to Crater Lake. Wander the lakeside and forests while you're in the area.

Castle Creek Wildflower Trail

You can take time to visit Castle Creek Wildflower Trail during your travels to Crater Lake. Wander the lakeside and forests while you're in the area.

Top Crater Lake National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Crater Lake Resort

50711 OR-62, Chiloquin, OR

Union Creek Resort

56484 Highway 62, Prospect, OR

Crater Lake Gateway - Highway 140

29200 Oregon 140, Klamath Falls, OR

Dawson House Lodge

109455 Hwy 97 North, Chemult, OR

Riverfront Lodging

21906 OR-62, Shady Cove, OR

Rogue Regency Inn and Suites

2300 Biddle Rd, Medford, OR

Cerulean Hotel

100 Main St, Klamath Falls, OR

Shilo Inn Suites Hotel - Klamath Falls

2500 Almond St, Klamath Falls, OR

Running Y Resort

5500 Running Y Road, Klamath Falls, OR

See all 1,316 properties in Crater Lake National Park

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Crater Lake National Park

At Crater Lake National Park, visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor adventures, including stunning hiking trails and camping under the stars. For a unique experience, consider winter backcountry camping, which offers a serene atmosphere amidst the snow. Don't forget to gather travel tips to make the most of your visit and discover the various Crater Lake adventures that await you in this breathtaking natural wonder.

Shopping

In Crater Lake National Park, enjoy local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Medford's Rogue Valley Mall, around 112.7km away, featuring a wide range of retailers and dining options for a more extensive shopping experience.

Recreation

Crystal Springs Recreational Area offers a tranquil setting with scenic views, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Joseph H Stewart State Park features lush landscapes, ideal for peaceful walks and meditation. Spring Creek Recreation Site provides a serene atmosphere for unwinding amidst nature, enhancing your wellness experience.

Adventure

The Annie Creek Canyon Trail, located 483m from Crater Lake National Park, offers stunning scenery and a true sense of adventure along its hiking paths. For skiing enthusiasts, Cat Ski Mt. Bailey, 33.8km away, delivers thrilling slopes. Experience a rush at the Crater Lake Zipline, situated 46.7km from the park.

Nightlife

Crater Lake National Park offers a tranquil nightlife, perfect for stargazing by the lake. Nearby, the charming town of Klamath Falls features cosy pubs and live music venues, creating a welcoming atmosphere to unwind after a day of adventure.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is a stunning destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, featuring breathtaking sights like the lake itself and surrounding valleys. Visitors can explore the visitor centre for insights into the park's history and natural beauty. With an array of activities in and around Crater Lake, you'll find plenty of opportunities for adventure and unforgettable experiences. Be sure to take in the incredible views and enjoy the unique charm of this iconic national park.

Crater Lake: Experience the stunning beauty of Crater Lake, known for its deep blue waters and picturesque scenery. This serene lake offers a perfect spot for romantic picnics, scenic walks, and outdoor activities, all set against the backdrop of towering cliffs and lush forests.
Rim Visitor Center: The Rim Visitor Center is a hub of adventure, providing visitors with informative exhibits and breathtaking views. It's an ideal spot for families to explore the park's natural wonders, plan hikes, and learn about the area's unique geology.
Crater Lake Superintendent's Residence: Immerse yourself in the culture and history of Crater Lake at the Superintendent's Residence. This historic site offers a glimpse into the park's past and showcases the dedication to preserving this natural treasure.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Crater Lake National Park

To save money on your trip to Crater Lake National Park, consider visiting during the off-peak months of February to March or December when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel three months in advance can help you secure the best rates, especially on Wednesdays, which are the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and package discounts on hotels, flights, and activities. Additionally, take advantage of free outdoor activities in the park to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Crater Lake National Park are February to March and December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Crater Lake National Park about 3+ months out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Crater Lake National Park is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Crater Lake National Park is Friday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices, taking into account your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your hotel stay at Crater Lake National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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