Crater Lake National Park

Main Attractions of Crater Lake National Park

Scenic Rim Drive

The 33-mile Scenic Rim Drive should be the backbone of your tour. Numerous overlooks along the lake make your drive mesmerizing. Various trails, beautiful vistas, meadows, waterfalls, and the Rim Village attract visitors the most. They also provide five picnic spots and guided tours. Rim Drive continues with West Rim Drive and East Rim Drive and is open from July to mid-October. There are 30 overlooks around the lake to stop and enjoy. The popular overlooks are:

• Merriam Point
• Watchman Overlook
• Phantom Ship Overlook
• Cloudcap Overlook

In winter, the road remains closed due to heavy snow. You need to maintain the speed limit at 35 mph or less.

Rim Village

Rim Village is a historic district and a convergence of beauty. In 1997, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Rim Village Promenade is a stone parapet wall with three observation bays. The architecture of the village is nature-inspired and art-influenced. The structures are built in rustic style with native stones and logs. You can find natural planting and a drinking water fountain there. Visitors can also experience Kiser Studio, which today is known as Rim Visitor Center and Crater Lake History Association Bookstore. Restrooms, Rim Village Cafe and Gift Shop, and a picnic area, which is the campground, are available as well. Winter in Rim Village is wonderful. The average snowfall is 42 feet. There are many activities such as snowshoeing, sledding, skiing, drinking hot drinks, and snow photography. Winter is very cold there, so wear warm clothes in layers to keep yourself warm.

Sinnot Memorial Overlook

The viewpoint from Sinnot Memorial is outstanding. Sinnot Memorial is a popular visiting spot and is designed as a “trailside” museum. It offers exhibitions focused on the science which enhances the opportunity to learn about the geology of Mount Mazama. You can also be informed about the creation of Crater Lake.

Crater Lake Lodge

The Crater Lake Lodge overlook is one of the most beautiful and soothing. It is open from mid-May to early October. There are 71 rooms available for visitors. You can enjoy winter with the stone fireplace in the rooms or watch the sunrise over Crater Lake by sitting outside. The dining area offers three meals. Just make your reservation early.

Plaikni Falls

Not only is the lake prominent, but it also has waterfalls to cherish. It is a two-mile hike which leads to a 100-foot elevation. It passes through the pine forest and hemlock mountain. At the end of the trail, you can see wildflowers which generally bloom in summer.

Picnic Area

This area has an elevation ranging from 4400 to 7100 feet. The area features a diverse biosphere. You can spot different wild species and wildflowers there.

• Ponderosa Picnic Area: It is located at the southeastern part of the park and is the lowest elevation picnic spot in the park. The main tree species are Ponderosa pine, including sugar pine, Douglas-fir, and white fir. Wildflowers in warmer temperatures are a must-see.
• Annie Falls Picnic Area: The tree-covered canyon with cascading water makes the place divine. The harmonic water dripping sound and the wilderness of the dense forest can give you another level of experience.
• Lodgepole Picnic Area: The area is covered with old growth forest. The lodgepole pine trees are dominant there. Picnic tables and a trailhead are set for visitors.
• Goodby Picnic Area: The dominant tree species are Shasta red fir, lodgepole pine, and mountain hemlock. You also have the opportunity for birdwatching, but there are no hiking trails.