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.
From the west (Medford) - Take Hwy 62 to the West Entrance. Open year-round. From the south (Klamath Falls) - Take Hwy 97 north to Hwy 62 to the South Entrance. Open year-round. The North Entrance is on Hwy 138 and is accessed from Interstate 5 east at Roseburg or Hwy 97 south from Bend and Chemult. Winter travelers from Roseburg take Route 138 east to Route 230 south to Route 62 east to the park's west entrance. Travelers from Bend take Route 97 south to Route 62 to the park's south entrance.
Looking at Crater Lake and Wizard Island from Discovery Point
A view from Garfield Peak along the rim of Crater Lake
A view across Crater Lake from the lakeshore
A view of the caldera from Mt. Scott, the highest point in Crater Lake National Park
Water flowing over Vidae Falls
Wildflowers along the Wizard Island Summit Trail
A view of Crater Lake in the winter
Clouds in the Crater Lake Caldera