Crater Lake National Park Rim Drive Closes for the Season

Date: October 27, 2011
Contact: Marsha McCabe, 541-594-3091

The Rim Drive and North Entrance at Crater Lake National Park will close for the season on Tuesday, November 1, 2011. This will allow the park to complete winter preparations before the heavy snows arrive. Visitors are welcome to hike and bike on the closed portions of Rim Drive as long as weather permits. The South and West Entrances to Crater Lake National Park on Highway 62 remain open to visitor traffic year round. However, visitors will not be able to access the park from Highway 138 after October 31. Information about road, weather and avalanche conditions at the park can be obtained by calling the park at [phone].

Weather and road conditions can be severe due to winter storms, and can change rapidly. Winter visitors can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit by preparing their vehicles for winter driving conditions, and carrying adequate clothing, food, water and a full tank of gas. No gas is available in the park this time of year. Skiers and snowshoers are encouraged to contact the Steel Information center for current avalanche conditions before heading out on the trials. When enjoying the view of Crater Lake from the caldera rim, stay well back from the edge to avoid falling, as conditions may be slippery and hidden cornices unstable.

Despite the road closure, the park is always open. Winter season visitor services at the park are provided at the Steel Information Center located in Munson Valley adjacent to Park Headquarters. Beginning Monday, November 14, 2011, the Steel Information Center will go to winter hours and will be open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. A park orientation film is shown throughout the day upon request. The Rim Cafe and Gift Shop will be open daily from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm for limited sandwich/deli style food, beverages and gift purchases, as well as indoor lake viewing from the second floor Watchman room. Additional visitor services starting in late November will include free ranger guided snowshoe walks (snow permitting) every Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Call the Steel Information Center at [phone] for more information on start date and schedules.