Crater Lake National Park

When to Visit

Crater Lake receives an average of 44 feet of snow a year.

Whilst Crater Lake National Park never closes, most of the park is only accessible from late June to mid-October. The rest of the year, snow closes all park roadways and entrances except Highway 62 and the access road to Rim Village from Mazama Village.

Rim Drive is typically closed because of heavy snowfall from mid-October to mid-July, and icy conditions can be encountered any month of the year, particularly in early morning and overnight.

The lake best displays its dazzling color in summer, though more and more visitors are using the park for the increasing ly common cross-country skiing.

The Park is busiest in July and August. September and early October bring much smaller crowds. For the rest of the year heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures limit numbers and sights in the Park. The road is kept open just to the rim in winter, except during the most severe weather. Whilst this does limit the activities one can do in the Park it does still allow for the awe inspiring views of Crater Lake.

Introduction - Key Information - How to get to - When to Visit - Around the Park - Top Attractions - Hikes and Trails - Gallery