Top 10 Things to Do at Crater Lake National Park

Located in southern Oregon, Crater Lake National Park is home to the deepest lake in the United States, formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama over 7,000 years ago. Known for its stunning blue waters, dramatic cliffs, and unique geological features, Crater Lake is a bucket-list destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Whether you're looking to hike scenic trails, enjoy breathtaking viewpoints, or explore the lake itself, this list of top 10 things to do will help you make the most of your visit.

1. Rim Drive – The Ultimate Scenic Experience

• Length: 33-mile loop

• Best For: Scenic drives, photography, and viewpoints

• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall (typically open from July to October)

One of the best ways to experience Crater Lake is by driving the Rim Drive, a 33-mile loop that encircles the lake, offering unparalleled panoramic views from over 30 scenic overlooks.

Along the drive, you’ll encounter breathtaking viewpoints like Discovery Point, Watchman Overlook, and Cloudcap Overlook, each providing a unique perspective of the lake and its surrounding peaks.

Insider Tips:

✔️ Drive counterclockwise for easier access to pullouts.
✔️ Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting for photos.
✔️ Check road conditions—the loop is often closed due to snow until July.

2. Wizard Island – A Volcanic Wonder

• Best For: Hiking, photography, and boat tours

• How to Get There: Via boat tour (summer only)

• Hike Distance: 2.3 miles round trip to the summit

One of the most unique features of Crater Lake, Wizard Island is a cinder cone volcano that rises 760 feet above the water. The only way to visit is by taking a boat tour, which allows you to explore the island’s rugged terrain and panoramic viewpoints.

Once on the island, hike the Wizard Island Summit Trail, which leads to stunning views of the entire lake from the top.

Insider Tips:

✔️ Book boat tours in advance—they sell out quickly.
✔️ Wear sturdy shoes—the hike is steep but rewarding.
✔️ Bring plenty of water—there are no services on the island.

3. Watchman Peak Trail – The Best Sunset Spot

• Hike Distance: 1.6 miles round trip

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Best Time to Visit: Sunset for breathtaking views

For one of the best panoramic views of Crater Lake, hike the Watchman Peak Trail, a short but rewarding climb leading to an elevated fire lookout tower. From the top, you’ll get stunning views of Wizard Island and the deep blue waters of Crater Lake.

Insider Tips:

✔️ Go at sunset for a truly magical experience.
✔️ Bring a headlamp if hiking down after dark.
✔️ Expect some crowds, as this is a popular spot.

4. Cleetwood Cove Trail – The Only Way to the Lake’s Shore

• Hike Distance: 2.2 miles round trip

• Difficulty: Strenuous (700 feet elevation change)

• Best For: Swimming, fishing, and boat tours

Cleetwood Cove Trail is the only legal access to Crater Lake’s shoreline, making it a must-do for those who want to touch the water. The hike down is short but steep, and at the bottom, you can swim, fish, or board a boat tour to Wizard Island.

Insider Tips:

✔️ The water is cold (usually around 55°F even in summer).
✔️ Start early—it gets busy and hot by midday.
✔️ The return hike is steep—pace yourself on the way back up.

5. Crater Lake Lodge – A Historic Retreat

• Best For: Relaxing, dining, and enjoying lake views

• Built: 1915

For a more relaxed experience, visit Crater Lake Lodge, a historic hotel that offers stunning lakefront views, cozy fireplaces, and delicious dining options. Even if you’re not staying overnight, the lake-view terrace is a perfect place to unwind with a drink while soaking in the scenery.

Insider Tips:

✔️ Reservations fill up fast—book rooms months in advance.
✔️ The dining room serves local Oregon cuisine—try the fresh trout.
✔️ Sunset views from the terrace are spectacular.

6. Plaikni Falls Trail – A Hidden Waterfall

• Hike Distance: 2 miles round trip

• Difficulty: Easy

• Best For: Families and casual hikers

A hidden gem within the park, the Plaikni Falls Trail takes you through lush meadows and wildflower-filled forests before reaching a beautiful cascading waterfall. This is one of the easiest and most rewarding hikes in the park, perfect for those looking for a scenic, relaxing walk.

Insider Tips:

✔️ Visit in late summer when wildflowers are in full bloom.
✔️ The trail is mostly flat, making it great for families.

7. The Pinnacles – A Strange and Unique Landscape

• Best For: Geology lovers and photographers

A short drive from Rim Drive, The Pinnacles are towering volcanic spires formed by ancient volcanic activity. This otherworldly landscape is a quick stop, but it’s worth seeing these fascinating formations up close.

8. Garfield Peak Trail – A Challenging Climb with Big Rewards

• Hike Distance: 3.6 miles round trip

• Difficulty: Strenuous

• Best For: Experienced hikers and those seeking epic views

For one of the best panoramic views in the park, hike Garfield Peak Trail, which climbs 1,000 feet above Crater Lake Lodge. The summit provides breathtaking views of the lake, the Cascade Mountains, and beyond.

9. Sun Notch Trail – The Best View of Phantom Ship

• Hike Distance: 0.8 miles round trip

• Difficulty: Easy

• Best For: A quick but stunning viewpoint

The Phantom Ship, a small island resembling a ghostly ship, is one of the park’s most unique features. The Sun Notch Trail offers the best view of this fascinating rock formation.

10. Star Gazing – A Must-See Nighttime Experience

• Best For: Astronomy lovers and photographers

• Best Time to Visit: New moon nights for the darkest skies

With minimal light pollution, Crater Lake National Park is one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way stretching across the sky, with thousands of stars reflecting on the lake’s surface.

Insider Tips:

✔️ Head to a high elevation point (like Watchman Peak).
✔️ Bring a telescope or binoculars for an even better view.