NPS No two parks are more than five hours of drive-time apart, but rugged mountain ranges and dense forests separated rich Native American histories and defined the cutural histories of each park. Animal and plant species may cross state and park boundaries but some are endemic to a specific location. And be prepared for a range of recreational opportunities. Begin YOUR TourIt does not matter which direction you drive, however the distances and times listed below will take you clockwise to seven parks beginning at Crater Lake and ending at Oregon Caves.
NPS Photo by Linda Powell Begin YOUR Circle of Discovery Tour Here A violent eruption triggered the inward collapse of Mount Mazama's summit. A mile deep basin was left behind collecting rain and snow, and eventually creating the deepest lake in the United States. It is one of the most pristine lakes on earth with an average clarity over 100 feet deep. Sheer cliffs encase the lake's immeasurable beauty, while diverse forests, meadows and streams expand across the remainder of Mount Mazama where the geologic story continues. 
NPS Photo ~1.5 hours/80 miles (129 km) from Crater Lake along the Circle of Discovery The Tule Lake Unit, WWII valor in the Pacific National Monument includes both the Tule Lake Segregation Center, the largest and most controversial of the sites where Japanese Americans were incarcerated during World War II, and Camp Tulelake, which was first a Civilian Conservation Corp camp, then a prisoner of war camp, and finally an additional facility to detain Japanese Americans. If site is not open, inquire at Lava Beds which is your next stop. 
NPS Photo ~1½ hours/84 miles (135 km) from Crater Lake along the Circle of Discovery Lava Beds National Monument is a land of turmoil, both geological and historical. Over the last half-million years, volcanic eruptions on the Medicine Lake shield volcano have created a rugged landscape dotted with diverse volcanic features. More than 700 caves, Native American rock art sites, historic battlefields and campsites, and a high desert wilderness experience await you! 
NPS Photo ~3½ hours/190 miles (306 km) along the Circle of Discovery from Lava Beds ~4½ hours/262 miles (422 km) from Crater Lake Come witness a brief moment in the ancient battle between the earth shaping forces of creation and destruction. Nestled within Lassen's peaceful mountain forests you will find that hissing fumaroles and boiling mud pots still shape and change the land. 
NPS Photo ~1 hour/55 miles (89 km) along the Circle of Discovery from Lassen ~3½ hours/192 miles (309 km) direct from Crater Lake Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is geographically situated at the juncture of the Klamath Mountain Range and the northern edge of the Central Valley, making it home to a diverse collection of animal and plant life. The park provides outdoor enthusiasts with excellent opportunities for water recreation, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and camping. 
~3½ hours/162 miles (262 km) to Orick,CA. from Whiskeytown on the Circle of Discovery ~3½ hours/164 miles(264 km) to Crescent City, Calif. from Crater Lake Home to the tallest trees on earth, vast prairies, oak woodlands, wild riverways, and nearly 40 miles of pristine coastline, all supporting a rich mosaic of wildlife diversity and cultural traditions. Together, the National Park Service and California State Parks manage these lands for the inspiration, enjoyment, and education of all people. 
NPS Photo ~3 hours/130 miles (209 km) direct from Crater Lake ~2.5 hours/108 miles (174 km) final stop on the Circle of Discovery (clockwise from Crater Lake) Deep within the Siskiyou Mountains are dark, twisting passages that await your discovery. Eons of acidic water seeping into marble rock created and decorated the wondrous “Marble Halls of Oregon.” Join a tour, get a taste of what caving is all about, and explore a mountain from the inside and out! |
Last updated: March 7, 2022