Crater Lake National Park offers a breathtaking round trip experience, showcasing the deepest lake in the United States. This comprehensive guide covers a two-day itinerary, scenic routes, essential travel tips, and key viewpoints for an unforgettable Crater Lake round trip. From sunrise at Watchman Overlook to boat tours on Wizard Island, this journey promises awe-inspiring views and unique experiences in one of America’s most stunning national parks.
What Does a Crater Lake Round Trip Entail?
A Crater Lake round trip typically involves:
- Driving the 33-mile Rim Drive
- Stopping at various scenic overlooks
- Hiking popular trails
- Exploring the lake shore
- Potentially taking a boat tour to Wizard Island
This circular journey around the caldera offers diverse perspectives of the lake and surrounding landscape, making it a must-do for visitors to the park.
How Long Does a Crater Lake Round Trip Take?
A comprehensive Crater Lake round trip usually requires at least two full days to experience the park’s main attractions. Here’s a breakdown of a typical two-day itinerary:
Day 1: Rim Drive and Hiking
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Start at Rim Village Visitor Center, drive to Watchman Overlook for sunrise |
| Mid-Morning | Begin 33-mile Rim Drive, stop at Sinnott Memorial Overlook |
| Afternoon | Hike Sun Notch Trail and Discovery Point Trail |
| Late Afternoon | Hike Cleetwood Cove Trail, swim in the lake |
| Evening | Dinner at Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room |
Day 2: Boat Tours and Additional Exploration
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Take boat tour to Wizard Island (optional) |
| Afternoon | Hike Lady of the Woods Trail or Plaikni Falls Trail |
| Late Afternoon | Complete Rim Drive, stopping at missed overlooks |
| Evening | Watch sunset at Watchman Overlook |
What Are the Best Routes to Crater Lake?
The most common route to Crater Lake National Park is from Klamath Falls:
- Take US-97 North
- Turn onto OR-138 West
- Follow signs to the park entrance
This route is approximately 60 miles and takes about an hour to drive.
Where Are the Most Scenic Viewpoints Along Rim Drive?
Rim Drive offers numerous breathtaking viewpoints. Here are some must-see locations:
- Watchman Overlook
- Elevation: 6,940 feet
-
Notable for: Watchman Fire Tower, sunrise views
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Sinnott Memorial Overlook
- Elevation: 6,900 feet
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Notable for: Educational panels, carved into caldera wall
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Kerr Notch
- Elevation: 6,800 feet
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Notable for: Views of Phantom Ship
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Sun Notch
- Elevation: 6,800 feet
- Notable for: Views of Phantom Ship and the lake
What Are Essential Crater Lake Travel Tips?
To make the most of your Crater Lake round trip, consider these tips:
- Parking: Arrive early, especially at popular spots like Cleetwood Cove.
- Entrance Fees: $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.
- Restrooms: Available at Rim Village, Mazama Village, and major stops along Rim Drive.
- Accessibility: Some viewpoints are wheelchair accessible, but many trails involve steep inclines.
Which Trails Should Be Included in a Crater Lake Round Trip?
Include these key trails in your Crater Lake round trip:
- Watchman Peak Trail
- Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 420 feet
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Sun Notch Trail
- Distance: 0.8 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 150 feet
-
Difficulty: Easy
-
Discovery Point Trail
- Distance: 2 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 100 feet
-
Difficulty: Easy
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Cleetwood Cove Trail
- Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 700 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
How Can Visitors Maximize Their Crater Lake Round Trip Experience?
To get the most out of your Crater Lake round trip:
- Start early to catch the sunrise at Watchman Overlook
- Take your time driving Rim Drive, stopping at various viewpoints
- Hike at least one trail to get a different perspective of the lake
- Consider a boat tour to Wizard Island for a unique experience
- Stay for sunset at one of the scenic overlooks
- Bring layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day
By following this guide, you’ll experience the best that Crater Lake National Park has to offer on your round trip adventure.
References:
1. https://koa.com/blog/crater-lake-national-park-itineraries/
2. https://roadtrippers.com/destinations/crater-lake-national-park/
3. https://celiactravelpack.com/one-day-at-crater-lake/