Best Things to Do in Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park, located in southern Oregon, is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the United States. Known for its deep blue color, remarkable clarity, and dramatic caldera, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the U.S. and one of the purest in the world. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature photographer, or simply someone looking for a serene escape, this park offers something for everyone.

Here are the best things to do in Crater Lake National Park.

1. Drive the Scenic Rim Drive

Things to Do in Crater Lake National Park Drive the Scenic Rim Drive

View of Rim Drive from Watchman Peak (image: NPS)

The 33-mile Rim Drive encircles Crater Lake and offers more than 30 scenic pullouts with panoramic views. It’s one of the most spectacular drives in the country. The full loop is typically open from July to October (depending on snow levels), and it’s the perfect way to experience the park’s diverse landscapes.

Top viewpoints to stop at:

Watchman Overlook
Cloudcap Overlook (highest point on Rim Drive)
Phantom Ship Overlook
Discovery Point

2. Hike to Watchman Peak

If you’re up for a short but rewarding hike, the Watchman Peak Trail is a must. This 1.6-mile round-trip trail offers sweeping views of Crater Lake and Wizard Island from a fire lookout tower. It’s especially magical at sunset.

3. Take a Boat Tour to Wizard Island

During the summer months, you can take a boat tour on Crater Lake and even land on Wizard Island, a volcanic cinder cone that rises from the lake’s surface. Once there, hike to the summit or enjoy a peaceful lakeside picnic.

Note: To access the boat, you’ll need to hike the steep Cleetwood Cove Trail, the only legal trail to the lake’s edge.

4. Swim or Fish at Cleetwood Cove

Cleetwood Cove is the only location where swimming is allowed in Crater Lake. The hike down is 1.1 miles and steep, but the chance to dip into the incredibly clear (and cold!) water of the lake is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Fishing is also allowed without a license, and the lake contains kokanee salmon and rainbow trout.

5. Catch Sunrise or Sunset Over the Lake

Crater Lake transforms at dawn and dusk. The colors change dramatically, with deep blues, fiery oranges, and pink reflections dancing across the surface.

Best spots for sunrise/sunset:

Watchman Overlook (sunset)
Cloudcap Overlook (sunrise)
Rim Village

6. Explore Crater Lake on Snowshoes (Winter Visit)

Crater Lake is open year-round, and winter is a magical time to visit. Snow blankets the caldera, creating a pristine and quiet landscape. Rent snowshoes or join a ranger-led snowshoe walk (usually offered on weekends from December to April).

7. Visit the Crater Lake Lodge

The historic Crater Lake Lodge, perched right on the rim, is the perfect place to relax, enjoy a meal, or spend the night. Even if you’re not staying there, stop by for a drink on the terrace and take in the incredible lake views.

8. Stargaze Under Clear Skies

Crater Lake National Park has very little light pollution, making it one of the best places in Oregon for stargazing. On clear nights, the sky fills with stars, and you can often see the Milky Way stretching across the sky.

Join a ranger-led astronomy program in summer, or just lay back and enjoy the cosmos on your own.

9. Photograph the Phantom Ship

This unique rock formation, known as the Phantom Ship, resembles a ghostly sailing vessel. Best viewed from the Phantom Ship Overlook or from boat tours, it’s a favorite for photographers and geology enthusiasts.

10. Discover the Pinnacles

Just outside the park’s main area is the Pinnacles, a fascinating collection of volcanic spires formed by eroded ash vents. It’s an easy, scenic walk that adds a unique contrast to your Crater Lake adventure.

Bonus Tip: Check Seasonal Conditions

Crater Lake gets heavy snowfall and some areas can be inaccessible for much of the year. Always check current conditions before you go, especially if you’re planning to hike, drive Rim Drive, or take a boat tour.

Final Thoughts

Crater Lake National Park is a destination that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re admiring the lake from above, diving into its icy depths, or exploring its volcanic formations, this park offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Don’t forget your camera, your hiking boots, and a sense of wonder—you’ll need all three.