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Are there bears at Crater Lake National Park?

Do I have to worry about bears? The only bear species found at Crater Lake are black bears. They are generally afraid of humans and will run away if you make noise, but will protect themselves if they or their cubs are threatened.



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Crater Lake's water comes only from rain and snowfall. It is actually one of the purest lakes in the world, so you can rest assured that it is very clean and safe to swim in!

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Landslides or rock falls could be triggered within Crater Lake caldera by earthquakes or by renewed volcanic activity. Failure of part of the caldera wall could cause a rapidly moving material to enter the lake, which may produce one or more large waves that could travel rapidly across Crater Lake and impact its shore.

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Short answer, yes, but there is actually only one place where it is safe and legal to get down to the lake shore and swim at Crater Lake National Park. It is the Cleetwood Cove Trail, which usually opens mid to late June.

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The park has more than 90 miles of hiking trails, but in May and June they are typically covered by deep snow. When snow-covered, most trails are either too difficult to follow, or too dangerous.

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Consuming Crater Lake water would conflict with the park's mission to preserve the lake. The park's water claim for the lake is for the preservation and protection of all natural habitats and the conservation of scenery. It is not for human consumption.

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Cleetwood Cove Trail is the only legal access to the shore of Crater Lake. Depending on snow conditions, the trail is usually open from mid-June to late October. Swimming, wading and fishing are permitted in the lake.

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