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How does Crater Lake stay full?

Evaporation and seepage are equal forces which keep Crater Lake from filling beyond an average depth of 1,943 ft (592 m) or 4.9 trillion gal (18.6 trillion L) of water. About 34 billion gal (128 billion L) are gained and lost each year.



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Does the lake level change? Not much. The lake experiences twice as much precipitation as evaporation, but the caldera doesn't fill up because water seeps out through a porous rock layer along the north shore.

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Tribe members recognize Crater Lake as a site of power and danger and fear the dangerous beings that are believed to live inside the lake. According to legend, the lake was a sort of doorway or crossroads between the darkness of the Below-World, or Hell.

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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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However, between 1888 and 1941 the lake was stocked with seven different species of fish, only two of those species thrive today. It is currently estimated that the lake supports approximately 60,000 kokanee salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka; landlocked sockeye salmon) and rainbow trout.

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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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Lodging and Camping The lodge is typically open mid-May through early-October and is managed by Crater Lake Hospitality. Learn how to reserve a room. The Cabins at Mazama Village are typically open mid-May to late September, & are managed by Crater Lake Hospitality.

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Located in Oregon, it is known for its vibrant blue color and purity. Because there are no inflowing streams, the lake is fed solely by rain and snow. It is the cleanest and clearest large body of water in the world, according to the National Park Service.

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