Biking at Crater Lake

Visitors biking around Crater Lake

NPS Photo

Each year, increasing numbers of cyclists come to Crater Lake National Park to ride around the lake on the physically demanding, 33 mile (53 km) Rim Drive. Steep hills at high elevation may encourage even the most fit riders to pause at many of the road's thirty overlooks and pull-outs. The payoff however is spectacular scenery, viewed at a pace that few visitors choose to take enough time for.

Rules and Safety

Cyclists must respect and obey all rules that apply to automobile traffic, including speed limits and stop signs. Bicycle helmets are highly recommended for all riders and are required for riders under the age of 16. Bicyclists must ride single file, and are prohibited from riding abreast, or side by side. When the Rim Drive is closed to motor vehicles but open to bicycles, riders may ride side by side; however they should be aware of vehicles using the roadway for administrative use.

Riders face many hazards including high speeds on steep downhill sections, rocks, animals, potholes and other road hazards as well as heavy traffic volume. Only cyclists experienced at riding with auto traffic should consider biking at Crater Lake. Cycling the three mile road section between Park Headquarters and Rim Village is discouraged due to limited sight distance, and a narrow, steep, winding road with heavy traffic.

Park roads seldom have shoulders and no bike lanes exist. Cyclists should use extreme caution, particularly along narrow areas and blind curves. Wear bright, highly-visible clothing to help drivers see you.

Cyclists unaccustomed to high altitudes may find that the elevation makes breathing difficult and the trip may take longer than anticipated. Bicycles are not permitted on park trails.

Water is available only at Rim Village, Park Headquarters, and Mazama Village.

Getting Here by Bicycle

All routes into the park have long, steep grades. Because road conditions are unfavorable to cyclists most of the year, and because many roads are closed during the long winter, we recommend you plan trips only for the summer months July, August, and September.

Entrance stations provide maps and information during summer daytime hours. Fees to enter the park are payable at the entrance stations.

Vehicle-Free Days on East Rim Drive

Two Saturdays a year East Rim Drive is closed to vehicle traffic, allowing bicyclists and pedestrians an opportunity to enjoy 24 miles (39 km) of scenic roadway without vehicle noise and traffic. For more information, visit the official website of the “Ride the Rim” event.
 

Waypoints and Distances

 

Point Name	Total Mileage	Distance (from last)	Climb (feet)	Elevation (feet)
Park HQ	0.0 mi	0.0 mi	0	6450
Rim Village	3.0	3.0	650	7100
Discovery Point	4.1	1.1	50	7100
Watchman Trailhead	6.8	2.7	400	7350
North Junction	9.1	2.3	200	7050
Cleetwood Cove	13.7	4.6	450	6850
Wineglass	16.5	2.8	350	6700
Skell Head	17.9	1.4	400	7100
Cloudcap	20.9	2.6	600	7700
Kerr Notch	24.4	3.5	0	6700
Dutton Ridge	27.0	2.6	650	7350
Vidae Falls	30.0	3.0	0	6600
Park HQ	33.0	3.0	150	6450

Details

Activity

Road Biking

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Pets must be kept on a leash at all times, and are not permitted on many of the park trails.

Activity Fee

No

There is a fee to get into the park. Check Fees & Passes for more information.  

Reservations

No

Reservations are not needed to enter the park. However, reservations are strongly recommended for lodging and camping.

Season

Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

E-Bikes are permitted.