Deep Water in a Sleeping Volcano

Crater Lake inspires awe. Native Americans witnessed its formation 7,700 years ago, when a violent eruption triggered the collapse of a tall peak. Scientists marvel at its purity—fed by rain and snow, it’s the deepest lake in the USA and one of the most pristine on Earth. Artists, photographers, and sightseers gaze in wonder at its blue water and stunning setting atop the Cascade Mountain Range.

Wizard Island with snow
Visiting in Winter

Winter can be a beautiful time to visit the park if you are prepared for the conditions.

Clouds move across the surface of Crater Lake.
Is the Lake Visible Right Now?

Crater Lake is often hidden by clouds. Before visiting, check our webcam to see if there's a view.

snow covered caldera walls run horizontally between a cloudless blue sky and a deep blue lake
Hours and Seasons

Links and information to park hours, descriptions of seasons, and seasonal road closures tables.

A wood sign with Danger painted in white is at the caldera edge with lake behind.
Alerts and Current Conditions

Keep abreast of current conditions and any alerts regarding danger, closures, and important park information.

Cars in line at the Annie Spring Entrance Station
Entrance Fees

Find out what it costs to enter the park and what NPS passes are available. See a list of fee-free days for 2023.

a guard rail on the left curves with OR Hwy 62, on the right is a slow 25 mph sign
Directions and Transportation

Reach the park from the West, South or North (closed winter) Entrance. Cell reception is limited, get directions before hand.

Mostly cloudy lake view with a rainbow from the caldera rim to the top of Wizard Island, a volcano.
Weather

Regardless of the time of year or season that you visit, check the forecast multiple times in advance. Conditions can change quickly.

Visitor with his dog at Rim Village
Enjoying the Park with Your Pet

Important information about visiting the park with your pet(s), ways to keep them safe, and where to take them.

Visitor in a snowy forest on a ranger-guided snowshoe walk
Ranger-Guided Snowshoe Walks

Free, ranger-guided snowshoe walks are offered on weekends, holidays, and some weekdays through the end of April.

An treetop view of the Cleetwood Cove section of Crater Lake with boat dock trail.
Cleetwood Cove Trail

Cleetwood Cove Trail is a steep and strenuous hike which drops 700 ft (213 m) of elevation in 1.1 miles (1.7 km). Know more before you go.

Round wood logs painted dark brown support a brown wood sign stating the west entrance to the park
Lodging and Camping

A list of lodging and camping options (year-round) within 20 miles outside the park boundaries, and distances to further-out communities.

People at Watchman peak overlooking the lake, faces aglow from the setting sun. sun
Things to Do

Whether day-tripping or spending a week, find a way to explore, discover, and retreat into the natural beauty and history of the park.

At an overlook, visitors stand along a 2 foot native stone wall next to a trolley near trees
Trolley and Boat Tours

Choose a trolley or boat tour and enjoy the sights worry-free with an added bonus of a ranger's perspective.

Last updated: February 8, 2026

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Crater Lake National Park
PO Box 7
Crater Lake, OR 97604

Phone:

541 594-3000

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