[FULL GUIDE] 100 Must-Do Activities at Crater Lake National Park

Key Takeaways:

1. Crater Lake National Park is famous for its stunning blue waters, volcanic landscapes, and abundant outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination.
2. From scenic hikes and boat tours to starry skies and volcanic history, Crater Lake offers an all-encompassing adventure for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
3. Whether you’re exploring the rim or enjoying water activities, Crater Lake offers a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the essence of Oregon’s natural beauty.

Crater Lake National Park, located in southern Oregon, is one of the most captivating national parks in the United States. Established in 1902, the park centers around Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the U.S. and a stunning result of a volcanic eruption. Over 7,000 years ago, Mount Mazama collapsed, forming a caldera that filled with water over the centuries, creating the iconic, brilliant blue lake. Visitors flock to the park year-round to hike, camp, boat, and explore the surrounding mountains and forests. With its pristine landscapes, rich history, and abundance of wildlife, Crater Lake is a breathtaking destination that continues to draw outdoor enthusiasts from around the globe.

100 Things to Do at Crater Lake National Park

#1 Hike the Rim Trail: This 33-mile trail offers panoramic views of Crater Lake, perfect for a challenging hike with breathtaking scenery.

#2 Take a Boat Tour on Crater Lake: Experience the beauty of the lake from the water with a boat tour, where you’ll see stunning cliffs and the island in the center of the lake.

#3 Explore Wizard Island: Hike or boat to Wizard Island, a volcanic cinder cone located in the middle of Crater Lake, and explore its unique landscape.

#4 Go Skiing or Snowboarding in Winter: Crater Lake’s heavy snowfalls make it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.

#5 Camp at Mazama Village Campground: Enjoy a serene camping experience surrounded by trees, with easy access to Crater Lake’s main attractions.

#6 Go for a Scenic Drive on Rim Drive: Drive around the rim of Crater Lake for unmatched views of the lake, mountains, and surrounding wilderness.

#7 Visit the Crater Lake Lodge: Stay at this historic lodge and enjoy a meal with a view of the lake, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat.

#8 Hike the Garfield Peak Trail: A challenging 3-mile hike that takes you to the summit of Garfield Peak, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding areas.

#9 Take a Snowshoeing Tour in the Winter: Experience the winter wonderland of Crater Lake on a guided snowshoeing tour through the park’s pristine snow-covered landscapes.

#10 Go Stargazing at Crater Lake: As a designated Dark Sky Park, Crater Lake offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country.

#11 Explore the Pinnacles Overlook: Stop by the Pinnacles Overlook to see the unique, spire-like volcanic formations that rise above the park’s landscape.

#12 Visit the Crater Lake Visitor Center: Learn about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife at the Crater Lake Visitor Center, a great starting point for your visit.

#13 Hike the Watchman Peak Trail: This moderate 1.6-mile trail takes you to the top of Watchman Peak for a great view of Crater Lake and the surrounding mountains.

#14 Kayak or Paddleboard on Crater Lake: Explore the pristine waters of Crater Lake by kayak or paddleboard, where you’ll have a unique view of the cliffs and Wizard Island.

#15 Take a Scenic Boat Ride to Wizard Island: Hop on a boat to Wizard Island for the chance to hike, picnic, and enjoy a day exploring this volcanic landscape.

#16 Go Wildlife Watching: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and bald eagles, making it a great spot for animal sightings.

#17 Visit the Cleetwood Cove Trail: Hike down this steep 1.1-mile trail to reach the shore of Crater Lake and take part in the boat tours or swim in the lake.

#18 Go for a Trail Run: Crater Lake’s trails provide a perfect environment for trail runners looking to experience the park’s beauty at a faster pace.

#19 Take a Photography Tour: Join a photography tour to capture the stunning views of Crater Lake, from sunrises over the lake to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

#20 Swim in Crater Lake: Brave the icy waters of Crater Lake and take a swim to experience the lake from a unique perspective.

#21 Hike the Sun Notch Trail: A relatively easy, 1.1-mile trail that leads to a beautiful viewpoint overlooking Crater Lake and Wizard Island.

#22 Explore the Mount Mazama Trails: Discover the trails that lead you to the remnants of Mount Mazama, the volcanic mountain that formed Crater Lake.

#23 Take a Helicopter Tour Over Crater Lake: Experience Crater Lake’s beauty from above with a thrilling helicopter tour that offers sweeping aerial views of the park.

#24 Go Fishing in the Lake: Although Crater Lake is deep, you can fish for rainbow trout in its waters, making for a peaceful day on the lake.

#25 Visit the Rim Village: This historic village offers stunning views of Crater Lake, along with dining and souvenir shops to make your visit more enjoyable.

#26 Hike the Mount Scott Trail: A strenuous hike to the highest point in the park, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

#27 Explore the Crater Lake Historic District: Visit this designated historic area to learn more about the park’s early days and its cultural significance.

#28 Go for a Winter Hike: In winter, take a peaceful hike through the snow-covered trails of Crater Lake, offering a quiet and serene experience.

#29 Visit the Union Peak Trail: This challenging 5.4-mile trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and Crater Lake.

#30 Take a Scenic Photography Drive: Take your camera and explore the scenic drive around the rim, capturing stunning views of Crater Lake and the landscape.

#31 Hike the Annie Creek Canyon Trail: A moderate 2.5-mile trail that leads you through the picturesque Annie Creek Canyon, offering views of waterfalls and wildlife.

#32 Go Horseback Riding in the Park: Though not allowed on every trail, horseback riding is available in select areas of Crater Lake and offers a unique perspective of the park.

#33 Visit the Crater Lake Memorial: Pay a visit to this memorial dedicated to the early explorers of Crater Lake and learn about the history of the park.

#34 Take a Boat Tour to the Phantom Ship: Explore the lake’s second largest island, the Phantom Ship, on a boat tour that takes you around this distinctive rock formation.

#35 Take Part in the Crater Lake Marathon: Run in one of the most scenic marathons in the country, taking you around the rim of Crater Lake.

#36 Go for a Scenic Rim Walk: Take a leisurely walk along the Rim Walk Trail, offering breathtaking views of Crater Lake and the surrounding volcanic terrain.

#37 Hike the Bluebird Trail: This easy, 1-mile trail is perfect for beginners and provides beautiful views of the lake and forested surroundings.

#38 Go for a Winter Snowshoe Hike: Explore Crater Lake in winter with a snowshoe hike, providing a peaceful way to enjoy the park’s snowy landscapes.

#39 Join a Volcano Geology Tour: Learn about the volcanic origins of Crater Lake and the surrounding region through a ranger-led geology tour.

#40 Explore the Caldera’s Hidden Caves: Discover hidden volcanic caves around the park, offering an exciting way to explore Crater Lake’s underground formations.

#41 Picnic at Crater Lake’s Scenic Overlooks: Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of the park’s scenic overlooks with incredible views of the lake and surrounding area.

#42 Visit the Crater Lake Research Station: Learn about the ongoing scientific research at the park through educational programs and exhibits at the Crater Lake Research Station.

#43 Take a Waterfall Hike: Visit one of the park’s beautiful waterfalls, like the stunning Annie Falls, for a tranquil and scenic hiking experience.

#44 Explore the Cascades Area: Take a trip to the Cascade Mountains surrounding Crater Lake and enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching in the area.

#45 Take a Scenic Boat Ride to Crater Lake’s Shoreline: Hop on a boat tour and explore the shoreline of Crater Lake for a peaceful experience surrounded by stunning views.

#46 Go Ice Climbing in Winter: For the adventurous, winter at Crater Lake offers ice climbing opportunities on some of the park’s frozen cliffs.

#47 Experience Crater Lake’s Winter Beauty: Visit Crater Lake in the winter months for a magical experience as the park transforms into a snow-covered wonderland.

#48 Go for a Sunrise Photography Session: Capture the stunning colors of sunrise over Crater Lake on a peaceful photography outing.

#49 Visit the Crater Lake Lodge for Afternoon Tea: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the Crater Lake Lodge, where you can sip tea while taking in the incredible views of the lake.

#50 Go for a Scenic Rim Loop Ride: Rent a bike and ride the scenic Rim Loop, taking in stunning vistas of the lake and surrounding forest.

#51 Hike the Crater Rim Trail: Explore a 6.6-mile trail along the crater’s edge, providing sweeping views of Crater Lake and its surroundings.

#52 Take a Boat Ride to the Phantom Ship: Cruise to the Phantom Ship, a unique rock formation that resembles a ship and offers an eerie sight on the lake.

#53 Discover the History of Crater Lake at the Visitor Center: Learn about the history of Crater Lake, including its volcanic origins and the park’s establishment.

#54 Hike the Mount Mazama Trails: Explore the trails that lead through Mount Mazama’s volcanic remnants and offer scenic views of Crater Lake.

#55 Go for a Scenic Snowmobile Ride in Winter: In the winter, enjoy the park’s snow-covered landscapes with a snowmobile ride through the snowy terrain.

#56 Take a Guided Astronomy Tour: Experience the starry skies above Crater Lake on a ranger-led astronomy tour, where you can learn about constellations and celestial events.

#57 Visit the Union Peak Lookout: Hike to the top of Union Peak for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Crater Lake.

#58 Go on a Trail Running Adventure: Crater Lake offers diverse trails perfect for those looking to combine hiking and running in a unique outdoor setting.

#59 Try Snow Tubing in Winter: For a fun winter activity, try snow tubing on the gentle slopes near Crater Lake during the snowy season.

#60 Visit the Sun Notch Overlook: A short walk leads to Sun Notch, offering one of the most iconic and scenic views of Crater Lake and Wizard Island.

#61 Go on a Winter Photography Hike: Capture the winter beauty of Crater Lake by embarking on a photography hike during the snowy season, offering plenty of photo ops.

#62 Enjoy a Scenic Drive Along Highway 62: Take a scenic drive along the highway leading to Crater Lake, offering impressive views of the landscape along the way.

#63 Explore the Pinnacles Area: Discover the Pinnacles, a fascinating geological feature formed by volcanic eruptions, creating spire-like formations.

#64 Go Cross-Country Skiing: Glide through the snow-covered trails of Crater Lake on a cross-country skiing adventure, perfect for those who enjoy peaceful winter exploration.

#65 Take a Scenic Helicopter Ride: Experience Crater Lake from a different angle with a thrilling helicopter ride that offers aerial views of the lake and caldera.

#66 Go on a Ranger-led Volcanic History Tour: Join a ranger for a deep dive into the volcanic history of Crater Lake, exploring how the caldera was formed.

#67 Take the Crater Lake Rim Drive: A drive around Crater Lake offers breathtaking views of the lake, forests, and distant mountains, perfect for sightseers.

#68 Go Snowshoeing on the Rim: Enjoy snowshoeing around the rim of Crater Lake during winter, taking in the spectacular snowy views and peaceful silence.

#69 Visit the Crater Lake Historic District: Step back in time with a visit to the historic district, where you can learn about the park’s early days and its establishment.

#70 Hike the Watchman Trail: A 1.6-mile hike that takes you to Watchman Peak, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

#71 Take a Photography Class Focused on Crater Lake: Learn tips and tricks for capturing the beauty of Crater Lake through a specialized photography class.

#72 Go Camping at Lost Creek Campground: Set up camp at Lost Creek Campground, located near the lake, and enjoy easy access to hiking and outdoor activities.

#73 Take the Cascade Mountains Scenic Drive: Explore the Cascade Mountains that surround Crater Lake on a scenic drive, offering stunning views of volcanic peaks.

#74 Learn about the Native American History at Crater Lake: Discover the indigenous history of the region, where Native American tribes considered the lake sacred.

#75 Go for a Sunrise Hike to Watch the Lake Glow: Experience the lake’s natural beauty at sunrise when the water’s color appears even more vivid and magical.

#76 Join a Wilderness Survival Program: Take part in a wilderness survival program that teaches essential skills for navigating and thriving in the park’s remote areas.

#77 Visit the Cascade Streamwatch: Learn about the park’s water systems and how the streams and lakes contribute to the local ecosystem at this educational spot.

#78 Explore the Forested Trails Around Crater Lake: Hike through dense forests surrounding Crater Lake, with trails that offer peaceful walks and scenic views.

#79 Go Horseback Riding Around Crater Lake: While not available on all trails, horseback riding is offered in select areas of Crater Lake for an unforgettable experience.

#80 Take Part in the Crater Lake Winter Festival: Visit during the winter months and enjoy the annual festival, filled with activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

#81 Explore the Waterfalls Around the Park: Take a hike to discover waterfalls near Crater Lake, where water cascades through the volcanic landscape.

#82 Take the Cleetwood Cove Trail for a Boat Ride: This steep, short trail leads to the lake’s shore, where you can catch a boat ride to Wizard Island.

#83 Try Geocaching at Crater Lake: Engage in a modern treasure hunt by geocaching around Crater Lake and exploring hidden spots throughout the park.

#84 Go Ice Fishing in the Winter: For winter enthusiasts, try ice fishing on the frozen sections of Crater Lake, a unique way to enjoy the outdoors during colder months.

#85 Join a Nature Walk Along the Rim: Participate in a nature walk along the Rim Trail, guided by a park ranger who will teach you about the park’s unique flora and fauna.

#86 Explore the Lava Cast Forest: See remnants of ancient lava flows that have created unique geological formations in this remote area of the park.

#87 Visit the Scenic Rim Overlooks: Stop at the scenic overlooks around the Rim Drive to capture stunning views of Crater Lake and the surrounding area.

#88 Hike the Garfield Peak Trail: A challenging hike to the summit of Garfield Peak, offering panoramic views of Crater Lake and the surrounding wilderness.

#89 Join a Birdwatching Tour at Crater Lake: Take part in a birdwatching tour to spot local and migratory bird species that make Crater Lake their home.

#90 Go for a Sunset Hike: Time your hike to finish at sunset, offering incredible photo opportunities as the sky turns colorful over Crater Lake.

#91 Go Ice Climbing in Winter: For the adventurous, try ice climbing on Crater Lake’s frozen waterfalls during the winter season.

#92 Visit the Crater Lake Watchtower: Explore the park’s watchtower to gain a higher vantage point of the lake and its beautiful surrounding landscapes.

#93 Take a Ranger-led Hike to Explore the Volcano’s History: Learn about the park’s volcanic history during a ranger-led hike that explores the caldera and its features.

#94 Go for a Scenic Fall Hike: Visit in the fall to experience the park’s vibrant foliage, which adds a splash of color to the landscape.

#95 Hike to Mount Scott’s Summit: A challenging hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the lake, surrounding mountains, and forests.

#96 Learn About the Park’s Conservation Efforts: Join a ranger program to learn about the ongoing conservation efforts at Crater Lake and the park’s unique ecosystem.

#97 Go for a Snowshoeing Adventure on the Rim: In winter, take a snowshoeing adventure to explore the snow-covered rim and enjoy the peaceful solitude of the park.

#98 Take a Picnic on the Rim: Pack a picnic and enjoy the views at one of the scenic overlooks along the Rim Drive, a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.

#99 Try Mountain Biking on Select Trails: While not all trails are suitable for biking, Crater Lake offers a few designated paths for mountain biking enthusiasts.

#100 Take a Scenic Drive to Watch the Wildflower Bloom: Visit in spring to witness the park’s wildflowers bloom, adding color and life to the landscape.

Conclusion:

Crater Lake National Park offers a vast array of activities that highlight its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure opportunities. Use PlanMyWeekend.ai to plan your visit and make sure you don’t miss out on any of the unforgettable experiences Crater Lake has to offer.