Crater Lake is widely known for its intense blue color and spectacular views. During summer, visitors may navigate the Rim Drive around the lake, enjoy boat tours on the lake surface, stay in the historic Crater Lake Lodge, camp at Mazama Village, or hike some of the park's various trails including Mt. Scott at 8,929 ft. Diverse interpretive programs enhance visitors' knowledge and appreciation of this national park, 90% of which is managed as wilderness. The winter brings some of the heaviest snowfall in the country, averaging 533 inches per year. Although park facilities mostly close for this snowy season, visitors may view the lake during fair weather, enjoy cross-country skiing, and participate in weekend snowshoe hikes.

Operating Hours & Seasons

The park is always open, but many of the roads and facilities are closed during the winter.

Summer Hours --
Rim Village Visitor Center: Early June through late September, 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM, daily.
Steel Visitor Center: Early April through early November, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, daily.

Winter Hours --
Steel Visitor Center: Early November through early April, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, daily.