36 Hours in Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake is one of the most unique parks I’ve visited. The result of the eruption of the volcano, Mount Mazama, this lake is 1949 feet deep, making it the deepest lake in the country. Crater Lake is the only National Park is Oregon, and it is part of the Pacific Crest Trail. This Park offers a variety of hikes, activities, and stunning views of the vibrant blue water.  

While you could easily spend 3-4 days there, it packs enough punch that you’re able hit the best parts in a little more than a day. Whether you’re tacking this on as a last-minute stop on a road trip, or the smoke from the annual fires pushes you to leave the area earlier than planned (like it did with me), this itinerary is perfect for anyone.

Start off by watching the sunset at Watchman Overlook. This panoramic spot is one of the highest points in the park and sits on the western edge of the caldera. Watch the sunset light up the eastern rim with vibrant reds and pinks against the deep blue of the water for a spectacular sight.

The trail itself is moderate, with switchbacks weaving around the mountain with 400 feet of elevation gain and 1.7 miles out and back. The 360-degree views show the surrounding forests, as well as Mount Bailey and Mount Thielsen.  

After sunset, head back down to Mazama Village campground. There is no free camping within the national park – or any NP for that matter – and aside from Mazama Village, Lost Creek is the only other official campground. There are also lodges at Rim Village and Mazama Village.

I decided to pay for a campsite to save myself time from driving back and forth to the free spots outside the park. It’s recommended to reserve a campsite in advance, but I got lucky and was able to stay for two nights without any reservation. If you have the NP pass, the campsites will be half off. This was the only time I paid for camping my entire suvlife trip, and it was only $12. Such a score.

Start the next day by driving around the rim of the caldera. Rim Drive is 33 miles around the entirety of the lake and can take a couple hours to do with stops. Wizard Island, the tip of the volcano, is still visible in the lake and you can take a boat tour out to visit it. (Be sure to check the website to stay up to date on pandemic restrictions, as they weren’t offering boat tours this year.)

Stop at Phantom Ship Overlook and see the tiny rock island that looks like a ship.

Another noteworthy stop is Cloudcap Overlook. This is great place to watch sunset as well, although if you visit it during the day, make sure to hike up the short trail to get unparalleled views.

Near Cloudcap is the Mount Scott trailhead, which takes you to the highest point in the park. This hard hike is 4.2 miles with 1259 feet of elevation gain. Start early in the day to avoid crowds and have enough time to see the rest of the rim. Unfortunately, due to an injury I wasn’t able to hike this, but I will next time.

The next stop is Cleetwood Cove. This is the only point where you can get to the water – and risk a jump into the freezing depths. It’s a short but steep hike of 700 feet over the course of two miles down and back. This was the most crowded spot in the park.

Finish up the drive by stopping at a few other points such as Llao Rock, Merriam Point, and Hillman Peak. Then hike Watchman Overlook again for the panoramic view for sunset. Head back to camp – or onward to the next adventure.