Best things to do in Crater Lake National Park

Updated April 26th, 2022
Women Relaxing in Hammock Crater Lake Oregon
Image credit: kwiktor / 123rf

Crater Lake National Park is famous for its unique geographical features including the caldera of Crater Lake. The caldera is a cauldron-like hollow that forms when a volcano collapses in on itself. Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and one of the deepest in the world. It is also one of the most pristine lakes, due to the fact that it is fed entirely by rain and snowmelt. The lake is surrounded by cliffs that rise up to 2,000 feet (610 meters) in some places. Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and sightseeing. There are also a number of ranger-led programs available.

Some of the other top tourist attractions in Crater Lake National Park include Wizard Island, Llao Rock, and the Pinnacles. Wizard Island is a cinder cone volcano that sits in the middle of Crater Lake. Llao Rock is a massive cliff that offers stunning views of the lake. The Pinnacles are a series of spires that were formed by lava flow.

1. Visit the Crater Lake Visitor Center and learn about the history and geology of the area

When a visitor visits the Crater Lake Visitor Center, they learn about the history and geology of the area. The visitor center has displays that explain the geology of the Crater Lake area, as well as exhibits that discuss the history of the park. Additionally, the center offers guided tours of the park, as well as a bookstore.

2. Take a boat tour of Crater Lake and enjoy the views from the water

A visitor's experience when they take a boat tour of Crater Lake and enjoy the views from the water in Crater Lake National Park would be amazing. The views of the dramatic landscape and the sparkling blue-green waters of the lake would be unforgettable. The tour would provide a unique way to explore this beautiful park, and the knowledgeable tour guide would ensure that everyone had a great time.

3. Hike the Rim Trail around Crater Lake and take in the stunning views

A visitor's experience when hiking the Rim Trail around Crater Lake and taking in the stunning views in Crater Lake National Park would be awe-inspiring. They would be filled with wonder at the natural beauty surrounding them, and would feel privileged to experience this stunning location firsthand. The Rim Trail is a challenging trail, but the breathtaking views of Crater Lake and the surrounding mountains are well worth the effort.

4. Drive or bike the Rim Drive around Crater Lake for even more great views

If you drive the Rim Drive, you will likely encounter many people out walking, biking, or rollerblading. This is a great way to see the park from a different perspective and get a feel for the area. If you bike the Rim Drive, you will be able to see the park from a different perspective and get a great workout.

5. Explore Wizard Island, the largest of the islands in Crater Lake

Visitors who explore Wizard Island are likely to find the island to be quite barren, with few trails to explore. The island is home to a few small cinder cones, as well as a few small lakes. The only other attraction on the island is a small waterfall.

6. Take a scenic drive or hike through Lassen Volcanic National Park

A visitor's experience when they take a scenic drive or hike through Lassen Volcanic National Park in Crater Lake National Park is awe-inspiring. The park's wilderness setting and abundance of geological features are amazing sights. The views of Mount Lassen and the surrounding volcanoes are simply unforgettable.

7. Visit the geothermal features of Yellowstone National Park

The visitor's experience when they visit the geothermal features of Yellowstone National Park and Crater Lake National Park would be awe-inspiring. The visitors would be able to see the vividly colored geysers and hot springs, and the smells of sulfur would fill the air. The features would be a beautiful addition to any trip to these two parks.

8. Explore the glaciers of Glacier National Park

When visiting Glacier National Park, visitors will be able to explore the glaciers that are found within the park. The glaciers are a popular tourist attraction and can be seen from many different vantage points. During a visit to Glacier National Park, visitors will likely experience a range of different weather conditions, including bright sunshine, intense snowfall, and sub-zero temperatures.

9. Visit the Grand Canyon National Park

When someone visits the Grand Canyon National Park, they may be awestruck by its beauty. They might feel a sense of awe when looking down at the canyon. They might also feel a sense of wonder when looking up at the sheer walls of the canyon. Visitors to Crater Lake National Park may be awestruck by the beauty of the lake and the surrounding mountains. They may feel a sense of wonder when looking up at the sheer walls of Crater Lake.