The Crater Lake Rim Drive is a route that laps the lake, traversing 33 miles. Along the way, there are a few excellent stops – we've put together a total of 14. While there are tons of pullouts along the drive, these are going to be the main and most worth-it stops and viewpoints.
What is the best entrance to Crater Lake?
There are three ways into Crater Lake National Park, the most convenient being from the west and south on Ore. 62, which runs through the southwest corner of the park. To get to the park's west entrance, drive northeast from Medford 75 miles on Ore. 62.
Do you need chains to go to Crater Lake?
Be prepared with winter tires and chains. Always check road conditions before starting your drive. The South and West entrances are open year around except during short periods during heavy snowfall.
How long does it take to drive the Crater Lake Loop?
Allow a minimum of two hours (including sight-seeing stops) to circumnavigate the lake by car or motorcycle, and longer if you are driving a larger vehicle or towing.
How long is drive around Crater Lake?
33-mileCrater 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.
How far is the drive around Crater Lake?
33-mileRim Drive is a scenic highway in Crater Lake National Park in southern Oregon, United States. It is a 33-mile (53 km) loop that follows the caldera rim around Crater Lake.
Is it safe to drive to Crater Lake in the winter?
Crater Lake National Park is characterized by very snowy winters (and falls and springs, and sometimes summers). Snow plow drivers work tirelessly to keep Highway 62 and the road to Rim Village open throughout the winter. Expect to encounter snow removal equipment at any time during your visit.
What do I need to know before going to Crater Lake National Park?
WEATHER AT CRATER LAKEWhile snow doesn't often occur at lower elevations in Western Oregon, Crater Lake does accumulate a fair amount of snow due to its higher elevation. Average inches of snow have added up to 533 in normal years. It is not unusual for snow to linger through the spring and summer months.
Can I drive up to Crater Lake?
Is the road to Crater Lake steep?
Tucked away on the southern part of Oregon, the road was built between 1926 and 1941. The iconic and breathtaking Rim Drive has about 50 turnouts. If you're afraid of heights, thus is a challenge. The road lacks railing and the hillsides are steep.
What is the best time 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 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.
Can I sleep in my car at Crater Lake?
During the winter months, all overnight vehicles must be left at Park Headquarters located three miles below the rim. In the summer, vehicles may be left at designated trailhead parking areas or nearby pullouts. A valid park entrance pass and backcountry camping parking permit must be displayed on your dashboard.
How long does it take to drive through Crater Lake?
Allow a minimum of two hours (including sight-seeing stops) to circumnavigate the lake by car or motorcycle, and longer if you are driving a larger vehicle or towing.
Is the road to Crater Lake paved?
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.
Does it cost anything to get into Crater Lake?
Crater Lake National Park will move to a fully cashless system for entry fees beginning on Jan. 1. In an effort to save costs, the park said it would only accept credit or debit card payments, as well as payment apps on mobile devices. The entry fee remains $30 per car in summer and $20 per car in winter.
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. Even well-behaved domestic pets leave scents that disturb the local wildlife.