Crater Lake Rim Drive offers a stunning 33-mile scenic route around the caldera, featuring numerous viewpoints, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Visitors can explore iconic stops such as Rim Village, Sinnott Memorial Overlook, and Cleetwood Cove. The drive provides access to diverse landscapes, from panoramic vistas to hidden waterfalls, allowing travelers to experience the unique beauty of Crater Lake National Park from various perspectives.
What Are the Must-See Stops Along Crater Lake Rim Drive?
Crater Lake Rim Drive boasts several essential stops that showcase the park’s natural wonders:
- Rim Village:
- Central hub with visitor center and lodge
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Starting point for many tours and hikes
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Sinnott Memorial Overlook:
- Panoramic lake views
- Engaging ranger programs
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Interpretive displays
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Discovery Point:
- Popular scenic viewpoint
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Historical significance as the lake’s discovery site
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Watchman Overlook:
- Closest viewpoint to Wizard Island
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Stunning vistas of the lake and surrounding landscape
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Cloudcap Overlook:
- Highest paved road in Oregon
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Panoramic views of the lake and Cascade Range
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Cleetwood Cove:
- Only lake access point
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Trailhead for boat tours
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Kerr Notch:
- Best views of Phantom Ship rock formation
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Unique geological features
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Sun Notch:
- ADA-accessible trail
- Overlook of the lake and Phantom Ship
Where Are the Best Scenic Viewpoints on Rim Drive?
Crater Lake Rim Drive offers numerous scenic viewpoints, each with its unique perspective:
| Viewpoint | Distance from Road | Accessibility | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sinnott Memorial Overlook | Direct access | Stone staircase | Restrooms, programs |
| Cloudcap Overlook | Adjacent | Paved road | Interpretive signs |
| Watchman Overlook | Adjacent | Paved road | Nearby restrooms |
| Sun Notch | Short trail | ADA-accessible | Nearby restrooms |
| Kerr Notch | Adjacent | Paved road | Scenic views |
What Hiking Trails Can Be Accessed from Rim Drive?
Several hiking trails of varying difficulty are accessible from Crater Lake Rim Drive:
- Cleetwood Cove Trail:
- Length: 2.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 1-2 hours
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Unique feature: Only trail to lake surface
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Annie Creek Canyon Trail:
- Length: 1/4-mile upper section
- Difficulty: Gentle
- Time: 15-30 minutes
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Unique feature: Panoramic views
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Garfield Peak Trail:
- Length: 3.4 miles out and back
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 2-3 hours
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Unique feature: Immense lake views
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Sun Notch Trail:
- Length: Short trail
- Difficulty: Easy, ADA-accessible
- Time: 10-20 minutes
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Unique feature: Views of Phantom Ship
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Mount Scott Trail:
- Length: 2.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
- Time: 2-3 hours
- Unique feature: Highest accessible point in park
Are There Picnic Areas Available Along Rim Drive?
Yes, Crater Lake Rim Drive offers several picnic areas for visitors:
- Number of Areas: Five picnic areas accessible from Rim Drive
- Location: Strategically placed near scenic viewpoints
- Amenities:
- Picnic tables
- Restrooms
- Regulations: No specific reservation requirements mentioned, but check with park authorities for updates
How Long Does It Take to Complete the Rim Drive?
The time to complete Crater Lake Rim Drive varies based on several factors:
- Total Distance: 33 miles
- Driving Time: Approximately 2-3 hours without stops
- Recommended Time: 3-4 hours to include brief stops at major viewpoints
- Full Day Experience: 6-8 hours for a comprehensive tour with hikes and extended stops
What Should Visitors Know Before Embarking on Rim Drive?
Before starting your Crater Lake Rim Drive journey, consider these important points:
- Seasonal Accessibility:
- Fully open typically from July to October
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Partial closures possible due to snow in other months
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Vehicle Restrictions:
- RVs and trailers allowed, but caution advised on narrow roads
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Some pullouts may not accommodate larger vehicles
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Facilities:
- Limited services along the drive
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Fill up on gas and bring snacks/water
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Wildlife Awareness:
- Be cautious of wildlife on the road
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Do not feed or approach animals
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Photography Tips:
- Early morning or late afternoon for best lighting
- Bring a wide-angle lens for panoramic shots
By planning ahead and knowing what to expect, visitors can make the most of their Crater Lake Rim Drive experience, enjoying the breathtaking views and unique natural features of this iconic national park.
References:
1. https://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/scenic-rim-drive.htm
2. https://www.discoverklamath.com/adventure-guides/ultimate-guide-to-crater-lake-national-park
3. https://roadtrippers.com/destinations/crater-lake-national-park/