Crater Lake National Park

Looking at Crater Lake and Wizard Island from Discovery Point
Crater Lake inspires awe. Native Americans witnessed its formation 7,700 years ago, when a violent eruption triggered the collapse of a tall peak. Scientists marvel at its purity—fed by rain and snow, it’s the deepest lake in the USA and one of the most pristine on Earth. Artists, photographers, and sightseers gaze in wonder at its blue water and stunning setting atop the Cascade Mountain Range.
Map showing location of park.
Pacific Crest Trail Fully Open in Crater Lake National Park
The Pacific Crest Trail is now fully open in the park. Three other trails remain closed due to the Middle Fork Fire.
Summer 2024 Fire Restrictions Lifted at Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park - The fire danger level within Crater Lake National Park has dropped from extreme to high due to recent moisture and predicted cooler temperatures. Effective September 13 at 00:01 am, Crater Lake National Park will rescinded the fire ban implemented on July 25, 2024.
Crater Lake National Park to Host Ride the Rim Days 2024
Crater Lake National Park, in partnership with the Friends of Crater Lake and Discover Klamath, will host the tenth annual Ride the Rim days on September 7 and 14, 2024. On these consecutive Saturdays, East Rim Drive from North Junction to Park Headquarters will be closed to motorized vehicles at 7:00 PM on the Friday before the event (September 6th and 13th) until 4:00 PM on Saturday to allow for nonmotorized recreation including biking, hiking, and running. The event is free, but normal park entrance fees apply.
North Entrance Road Will Open Temporarily for Labor Day Weekend
Crater Lake National Park will temporarily open the North Entrance Road for two-way travel beginning 7:00 AM Saturday, August 31st, through Monday, September 2nd, to accommodate holiday weekend visitors. The road will be closed again beginning 6:00 AM Tuesday, September 3rd, so that hazard reduction work can resume.
Temporary Closure of North Entrance Road Continues
The North Entrance Road is closed from North Junction to the park boundary at the junction with Highway 138. This closure is necessary to ensure the safety of fire crews and the public. The date for reopening is not known at this time. All other park roads will remain open, except for construction closures on East Rim Drive.
A view of Crater Lake and Wizard Island
Photo by NPS Photo
a view of Phantom Ship and Chaski Bay
Photo by NPS Photo
a view of Crater Lake from the lakeshore
Photo by NPS Photot
Crater Lake as seen from the summit of Mt. Scott
Photo by NPS Photo
water flowing over Vidae Falls
Photo by NPS Photo
wildflowers on Wizard Island
Photo by NPS Photo
A view of Crater Lake in the winter
Photo by NPS Photo
Clouds in the Crater Lake Caldera
Photo by NPS Photo