Visiting in May and June

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. They can also be months of frustration, as lingering snow prevents us from accessing much of the park.

Is it still worth visiting in May and June? Absolutely! But it helps to come prepared with realistic expectations of what you'll be able to see and do. Below are some tips for making the most of your late spring visit.

 

Weather and Snowpack

May and June can bring sunny skies or severe snowstorms. In May, the average daily high and low temperatures are 50°F and 28°F. Average snowfall for the month is 20 inches, and the average snow depth at Park Headquarters is more than 6 feet! In June, daily highs and lows average 58°F and 34°F. The park receives an average of 4 inches of new snow, and the average snow depth at Park Headquarters is 2 feet.

The National Weather Service provides the most accurate weather forecast for the park. To find out yesterday's high and low temperatures, rain and snow totals, and current snow depth, visit the National Weather Service page that hosts our weather station data. View the "daily almanac" for "Crater Lake NPS."

 

Roads and Trails

In May and June, you can drive to Rim Village, which overlooks the lake. From there, on a clear day, you can enjoy spectacular lake views. But the road around Crater Lake and the park's North Entrance might be closed due to snow. Before you visit, learn about seasonal road closures and check our current conditions page to find out which roads are open right now.

The park has more than 90 miles of hiking trails, but in May and June they are typically covered by deep snow. When snow-covered, most trails are either too difficult to follow, or too dangerous.

 

Things to Do in May and June

View the Lake
Weather permitting, you can see the entire lake from Rim Village. During periods of rain and snow, however, the lake is usually hidden by clouds. The lake is completely invisible about 20% of the time in May and 10% in June. To find out if the lake is visible right now, view our webcam at Rim Village.

Go for a Snowshoe Walk
One way to explore the park in May and June is on snowshoes. Snowshoe rentals are usually available at the Rim Village Gift Shop until late May.

Hike (or Bike) on the Rim Drive
The best place to walk without snowshoes is on the Rim Drive. In May and June, there are usually sections of road that have been plowed but are not yet open to cars. Hikers, bicyclists, and pets on leash are allowed beyond the gates.

Watch the Park Film
Explore the park's violent past—and its present tranquility—in a 22-minute film shown every half hour at the Steel Visitor Center at Park Headquarters. (Sorry! The park film is not available right now. The Steel Visitor Center is currently closed for renovation.)

Tour Crater Lake Lodge
Check out the history exhibits or relax in the Great Hall of the park's historic hotel, which usually opens in mid-May.

Become a Junior Ranger
Are you at least 6 years old? Ask for an activity book at the fee booth. Complete at least 7 pages to earn a Junior Ranger badge.

Enjoy the Snow
Opportunities to play in the snow abound at Crater Lake in May and June. Build a snowman, make a snow angel, or challenge your traveling companions to a snowball fight.

Visit Attractions Near the Park
There are many great places to visit and experience near the park at lower elevations. Hiking trails are typically snow-free and by June may have wildflowers. Call museums to confirm hours.

 

Services and Facilities

Many facilities close in the winter due to snow. Below are the projected opening dates for 2023. For hours of operation and more information, visit our lodging & camping, restaurant, and visitor center pages.

Lodging
Crater Lake Lodge - opens May 12
The Cabins at Mazama Village - opens May 19

Camping
Mazama Campground - opens TBA
Lost Creek Campground - closed in 2023

Food
Rim Village Café - open year-round
Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room - opens May 12
Annie Creek Restaurant - opens May 19

Visitor Centers
Steel Visitor Center at Park Headquarters - closed in 2023 for renovation
Rim Visitor Center - opens in late May or early June