Learn and Explore
Which Season Is Best for You
There are two very distinct seasons at Crater Lake National Park, winter and summer, but the months in between—May, June, and October—offer a quieter, less hectic experience. In 2016, more than 750,000 people visited Crater Lake National Park, mostly between July and mid-September. Visitation decreased in 2021 to 647,751 due to hazardous smoke conditions from regional fires and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Deciding when to visit depends on what you want to experience. If it is hiking, then choose dates in July through October. If you want to experience snow, either for sport or play, select time in December through May. Wildflowers begin as snow melts in lower elevations and some blooms last through September. Photography and lake-viewing are year round activities, some days may be better than others.
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Directions and Transportation
Reach the park from the North (seasonal closure) West, or South Entrances. Nearby cell reception is limited, get directions before hand.
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Visiting the Park With Pets
Important information about visiting the park with your pet(s), ways to keep them safe, and where to take them.
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Weather
Regardless of the time of year or season that you visit, check the forecast multiple times in advance. Conditions can change quickly.
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Download the NPS App
The NPS App offers tools to explore more than 400 national parks nationwide. Save Crater Lake for offline use during your in-park visit.
Things to Do
Whether day-tripping or spending a week, find a way to explore, discover, and retreat into the natural beauty and history of the park.
Consider these "top 10 tips" as essential to planning and
enjoying a summer visit to Crater Lake National Park.
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Accessibility Info
Discover accessible trails, programs, activities, lodging, park pass and much more.
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Places to Go
Depending on the season in which you visit, you might go to 32 overlooks, two waterfalls, visitor centers and more.
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Safety
Conditions along roads and trails can change unexpectedly. Learn about winter hazards and year-round driving regulations.
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Entrance Fees
Find out what it costs to enter the park, learn about special passes, and check the list of fee-free days for 2022.
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Air Quality
In summer and fall air quality can be adversely affected by smoke from local wildfires. Check the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the park.
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Plan Your Winter Visit
Visiting between November and April? Download the park's winter newspaper to learn about lake viewing, snowshoeing, ski trails, and more.
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Beware of Snow Cornices!
Unstable ledges of snow extend beyond the rim of Crater Lake. Watch a short video to learn about them and other winter hazards.
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What's Open Today?
Find out what's open in the park right now. Many roads, trails, and facilities are closed for the winter.
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Winter Driving Safety
Park roads can be snow-packed and icy this time of year. Before leaving home, read our tips for safe travel and watch a short safety video.
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