Which entrance to Crater Lake is best?

From the south, take I-5 north to Medford, then take Oregon 62 north and east to the park's west entrance (which is open year round). If you like driving along cliffs and seeing the natural setting of the lake, the north entrance offers some stunning views.



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Crater Lake is designed to be visited by car. Not counting the time that you'll spend at the various viewpoints, the lake can be circumnavigated in an hour along the 33-mile Rim Drive, the highest paved road in Oregon. The full loop usually is open from late June to mid-October, depending on snowmelt.

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Follow Crater Lake Highway to East Rim Drive and follow the Rim as it loops around Crater Lake. It is recommended to drive clockwise, as it provides easier access to many of the viewpoints. There are many trailheads along the way if you want to stop and stretch your legs on a short hike.

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Allow a minimum of two hours (including sight-seeing stops) to circumnavigate the lake by car or motorcycle, and longer if you are driving a larger vehicle or towing.

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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.

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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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Another option for getting to Crater Lake from Portland is to take Highway 26 across the Cascade Mountains. Highway 26 is part of the Mount Hood Scenic Byway and provides excellent views of Mount Hood as well as optional side trips to places like Timberline Lodge.

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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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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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The Rim Drive is one of the great things at Crater Lake as it allows you see the lake from so many angles without your needing to walk very much. There are overlooks all around the lake with plenty of parking and only short walks to the edge.

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Firearms, bicycles, and motorized vehicles are not permitted in the backcountry. Pets are permitted on leash in developed areas only. Pets often threaten small wildlife.

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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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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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Traffic goes both directions on Rim Drive.

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The Scenic Rim Trail is not a hardened walking track and has steep and difficult sections. Walk with experienced hiking companions or join a guided walking group. To walk the trail without a guide you must have the relevant topographic maps.

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