Crater Lake Day Trips
Crater Lake - Bend Day Trip Series
Bend’s central location in the state makes for some epic day trips, and a visit to, whether it’s just for the day or if you decide to stay the night, Crater Lake is one place you must visit.
Of all the beauty and natural wonders that Oregon has to offer, Crater Lake is arguably one of the most surprising and stunning representations of nature’s wonder. With very little development, Crater Lake represents a snapshot in time and the area’s geological history that can only be appreciated up close and personal.
The Formation of Crater Lake:
Crater Lake was formed 7,700 years ago when Native Americans inhabited the area and the great Mount Mazama experienced a cataclysmic eruption. This eruption was so intense that it collapsed in on itself, leaving behind the huge caldera that we know today as Crater Lake. The caldera measures approximately 4,000 feet deep, making the Lake the deepest in the US.
The Water of Crater Lake:
The most memorable feature of Crater Lake is without a doubt the Sapphire blue water. After the eruption, over time caldera has filled with precipitation and snow melt with little to no inflow or outflow from streams or rivers. Isolation from external water sources contributes to its clarity and gives the water the appearance of a vibrant blue color, due to its depth and the scattering of light. The lake's intense blue hue is a result of its purity and depth, not to mention the fact that swimming, pets, or any other water sports are prohibited in the lake to keep it pristine.
Wizard Island: A Volcanic Gem
Within Crater Lake is a small island known as Wizard Island. The island itself is a cinder cone, which is an accumulation of volcanic debris, primarily volcanic ash, cinders, and other pyroclastic material that formed as a part of the subsequent eruptions after the initial eruption.
Getting there:
Crater Lake is a National Park and while it is technically open year-round, however, it does get an average of 41 feet of snow annually, so you may want to plan your trip according to current weather conditions. Most people prefer to visit in the summer when most of the park’s facilities are open. Depending on the time of year, a personal vehicle costs $20 or $30 for entry and the pass is good for 7 days.
Where to stay:
There is one campground, cabins and the historic Crater Lake Lodge. All of these are open seasonally, typically mid-May through early October, and vary in nightly cost. Accommodations outside of the park are limited to the smaller towns surrounding, between a 20-30 mile drive. Crater Lake is certainly doable in a day, but a stay at the park at any of these accommodations would give you more time to enjoy the multiple hikes and viewpoints around the crater’s rim
What to do:
Activities at the park include lots of opportunities for hiking and sightseeing on the numerous trails, including the infamous Crater Rim Trail. The lake does have a road that circumnavigates the rim and there are numerous overlooks for panoramic views of the lake and photo opportunities. In the winter, the park becomes a haven for snow enthusiasts, with opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even snowmobiling.
There are trolly and boat tours that double as sightseeing and history lessons. Depending on your affinities, the boat tour is an incredible opportunity to get down to the water's edge–and even get a chance to drink some of the pristine lake–but it does involve a steep and arduous 1-mile hike down to the water’s edge and boat dock. The hike back up to the rim is difficult and only recommended for those who feel confident about their physical ability. For those a little less confident with their footing, the trolly tour is a great option for getting the grand tour.
Wildlife and Ecology:
Crater Lake's ecosystem is as unique as its formation. Due to the lake's isolation and extreme conditions, the plant and animal life here has adapted accordingly. Some of the unique species you may encounter include the Mazama newt, which is found nowhere else on Earth, and the elusive black bear. Birdwatchers come for the chance to spot peregrine falcons and bald eagles.
One unique opportunity at the lake is to fish for Kokanee Salmon and Rainbow Trout, with no license or limit. The reason for this is due in part to preservation efforts and the fact that there is no evidence that native fish ever lived in Crater Lake. The fish that live there today were a result of it being stocked between 1888 and 1941, but they are considered invasive species by today’s standards. If you plan to fish here, there are some specific regulations you need to read up on, specifically that there is no organic bait allowed (only artificial lures) and the only access to the lake is via that steep trail at Cleetwood Cove.
Preservation Efforts
Crater Lake National Park is committed to preserving this natural habitat and is strict in these efforts. They are primarily focused on maintaining water quality that they can tout as the clearest lake in the US, protecting the fragile ecosystems surrounding (so stay on the trails!), and educating visitors about the importance of responsible tourism. The park also serves as a valuable site for scientific research, with ongoing projects to help us better understand volcanic processes and the resilience of life in extreme environments.
Conclusion:
Crater Lake is a testament to the power of nature, diversity, and the enduring beauty it can create. The vibrant and crystal clear blue water, unique ecology, and rich history make it a must-do day trip destination if you are spending an extended amount of time in Central Oregon, or a place that is worth an overnight visit to really take it all in. The Lake appeals to natural lovers and history buffs and has activities and accommodations for all ages.