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Why is Crater Lake popular?

Widely known for its rich blue color and extreme clarity, which averages 102 ft (31m) deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States. It is one of the top ten deepest in the world.



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5 Fun Facts About Crater Lake National Park
  • At 1,943 feet, It's the deepest lake in the United States. ...
  • Native Americans witnessed its formation. ...
  • It's one of the snowiest places in the country. ...
  • There are 22 trails to hike. ...
  • You can explore the park from a different perspective with a volcano boat tour.


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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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Yes, visitors can swim in Crater Lake. If you're in the mood for a dip, hike along the Cleetwood Cove Trail, a short, steep path from Rim Drive down to the shoreline. You can swim out straight from the shore.

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Although not the largest National Park, what makes Crater Lake special, and worth checking out, is just how unique it really is. There aren't many other places where you can go for a swim in a lake in the top of an ancient volcano!

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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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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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It's harmless to the lake and will eventually settle out to the bottom. How cold is the water? The average temperature (below 300 feet deep) is 38°. In the summer, the surface can warm up to 55° or 60°.

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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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