How long is the Crater Lake Rim Drive Tour?

This 38-mile (61 km) round-trip drive descends 3,700 feet (1,128 m) to the coast and ends where lava has covered 10 miles of road since 1986. Allow 90 minutes to two hours round-trip, depending on how often you stop and how far you hike. Note: There are no services (water, gasoline, or food) on Chain of Craters road.



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Crater Rim Drive is an 11-mile road that skirts the edge of the Kilauea Caldera in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and contains several scenic views and hiking opportunities. If you had to choose only one thing to do in HVNP (may that never occur!), this drive would be it.

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Experience this 20.7-mile loop trail near La Pine, Oregon. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 9 h 0 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.

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Is 1 day enough for Crater Lake? Yes! I spent 1 day in Crater Lake and I feel like it was a good amount of time to spend in the park. The park isn't too large like other national parks so it is very doable to drive around and do a few activities and enjoy your time at the lake.

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This is the famous Halema'uma'u Crater. Massive changes have occurred here since the 2018 eruption. The road beyond this point is closed to vehicular traffic due to ongoing eruption hazards.

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If possible, drive counter clockwise. This puts you on the lake side and makes it easier to get in and out of the many spectacular overlooks!

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The most popular months to visit Crater Lake are July, August, and September. That's when the park's roads, trails, and facilties are usually fully open. May and June are months of transition in the park, as winter slowly gives way to summer.

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The best way to see Crater Lake is by boat! For visitors seeking to explore Wizard Island, we offer either a boat cruise or a quick shuttle ride straight to the island.

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Although an entrance fee or NPS pass is required to enter Crater Lake National Park, vehicle reservations are not needed. You are encouraged to pay the entrance fee or purchase an NPS pass before arriving to save time, but you may also purchase passes at any entrance station upon arrival.

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Check out this 2.1-mile out-and-back trail near Volcano, Hawaii. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 50 min to complete. This is a very popular area for walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.

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Is Cleetwood Cove Trail the only trail to access the lake for swimming? There is only one place where it is safe and legal to get down to the lake shore. It is the Cleetwood Cove Trail, which usually opens late June.

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You can drive as far as the old Jagger Museum and get out to look over the crater to but there is so much more to the Kilauea Volcano. Expect to spend at least most of the day exploring the area and driving the Chain of Craters Road.

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CRATER LAKE WATERFALLS There are three primary waterfalls within the park's borders including Vidae Falls, Plaikni Falls & Duwee Falls.

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How Much Time to Spend in Crater Lake National Park? I think that 1 day in Crater Lake National Park is enough to see the highlights. If you have the time, it would be nice to spend 2 days there and spend the night at one of the lodges within the park.

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Hike options from moderate to difficult intensity featuring wildflowers and lava flows. Though fairly steep, this hike offers unbeatable views of Crater Lake, Wizard Island and the Phantom Ship.

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A very worthwhile experience. The trolly tour was the best part of the trip wish they were at more of the parks! Filled with great information and a wonderful way to see/learn about the park. A Must if you visit the park sit back relax and enjoy the views.

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