The journey from Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park to Crater Lake National Park is a captivating 172-mile drive through diverse landscapes. This route offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the towering redwoods of Northern California and the pristine beauty of Oregon’s Crater Lake. The trip typically takes around 3 hours and 50 minutes, but with numerous attractions along the way, it’s worth considering a more leisurely pace to fully appreciate the natural wonders.
What is the best route from Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park to Crater Lake National Park?
The most direct route from Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park to Crater Lake National Park follows US-199 N and I-5 N. Here’s a breakdown of the journey:
- Start at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, California
- Take US-199 N towards Grants Pass, Oregon
- Merge onto I-5 N near Grants Pass
- Take exit 30 for OR-62 E/Crater Lake Highway
- Follow OR-62 E to the park entrance
This route offers a mix of coastal and inland scenery, transitioning from the lush redwood forests to the high desert landscape surrounding Crater Lake.
What are the must-see stops along the way?
While the direct route can be completed in under 4 hours, there are several noteworthy stops that can enhance your journey:
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Crescent City, California: Located just north of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, this coastal city is an excellent place to stock up on supplies and enjoy fresh seafood before heading inland.
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Oregon Caves National Monument: A slight detour off US-199, this hidden gem offers underground tours of marble caves and hiking trails through old-growth forests.
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Rogue River Gorge: Located along OR-62, this scenic stop features a narrow gorge where the Rogue River rushes through volcanic rock, creating impressive rapids and waterfalls.
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Ashland, Oregon: Known for its annual Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland is a charming town with a vibrant arts scene, excellent dining options, and beautiful parks.
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Umpqua Hot Springs: A bit off the main route but worth the detour, these natural hot springs offer a relaxing soak with scenic views of the Umpqua National Forest.
What are the best hiking trails in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park?
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park offers several hiking trails that showcase the majestic coastal redwoods:
- Boy Scout Tree Trail:
- Length: 5.3 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
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Features: Old-growth redwoods, fern-lined canyons, and the Boy Scout Tree (a massive double redwood)
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Stout Grove Trail:
- Length: 0.5 miles loop
- Difficulty: Easy
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Features: Some of the park’s most scenic and photographed redwoods, accessible boardwalk
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Mill Creek Trail:
- Length: 5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
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Features: Follows Mill Creek, second-growth redwoods, and remnants of an old mill site
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Hiouchi Trail:
- Length: 2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Features: Follows the Smith River, offering river views and access to redwood groves
Remember to check trail conditions before setting out, as some trails may be affected by seasonal weather or maintenance work.
What are the best viewpoints at Crater Lake National Park?
Crater Lake National Park offers numerous breathtaking viewpoints around its iconic caldera lake. Here are some of the best:
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Rim Village Visitor Center: Offers expansive views of the lake and Wizard Island, with easy access to information and amenities.
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Watchman Overlook: Provides a stunning panoramic view of the lake and Wizard Island, especially beautiful at sunset.
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Cloudcap Overlook: The highest driveable point in the park, offering unique views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
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Phantom Ship Overlook: Best view of the Phantom Ship, a small island resembling a ghost ship on the lake.
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Discovery Point: Offers excellent views of Wizard Island and is the site where the lake was first discovered by European Americans.
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Cleetwood Cove Trail: The only trail that leads to the lake shore, offering a unique perspective from water level.
What are the best times to visit these parks?
The best time to visit depends on your preferences and the activities you’re interested in:
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park:
- Summer (June-August): Warm temperatures, minimal rainfall, and longer daylight hours make this the peak season for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Fall (September-November): Fewer crowds and mild weather, with beautiful fall colors in the understory vegetation.
- Winter (December-February): Quiet and misty, with a unique atmosphere, but some trails may be muddy or closed due to weather conditions.
- Spring (March-May): Wildflowers bloom, and the forest comes to life, but expect some rainfall.
Crater Lake National Park:
- Summer (July-September): The most popular time to visit, with warm temperatures and all park facilities open. The Rim Drive is typically fully accessible during these months.
- Fall (October-November): Beautiful fall colors and fewer crowds, but some facilities begin to close, and snow is possible.
- Winter (December-April): A winter wonderland with opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, but many roads and facilities are closed.
- Spring (May-June): The park begins to thaw, offering a mix of winter and summer activities, but some areas may still be snow-covered.
How can visitors best prepare for the journey?
To make the most of your trip from Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park to Crater Lake National Park, consider the following tips:
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Plan your route: Decide on your stops and attractions in advance, and estimate travel times accordingly.
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Check road conditions: Especially important when traveling in winter or early spring, as some roads may be closed due to snow.
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Pack appropriately: Bring layers for varying temperatures, comfortable hiking shoes, and rain gear.
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Carry supplies: Stock up on water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Gas stations can be sparse in some areas, so keep your tank filled.
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Make reservations: If planning to stay overnight along the route or at Crater Lake, book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
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Get park passes: Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks.
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Download offline maps: Cell service can be spotty in remote areas, so have offline maps available.
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Respect nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve these beautiful environments for future visitors.
By following these tips and taking the time to explore the diverse landscapes between Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and Crater Lake National Park, you’ll create a memorable journey through some of the most stunning natural areas in the western United States.