Crater Lake
Lake · Klamath County ·
Deep blue volcanic lake, deepest in U.S., clear waters, cliffs
Information
Oregon 97604 Get directions
Deep blue volcanic lake, deepest in U.S., clear waters, cliffs
Oregon 97604 Get directions
"Formed by a massive volcanic eruption, this is the fourth deepest lake in the world." - Karina Acharya
"A flooded volcano and the deepest lake in the U.S. (1,943 feet), notable for lava cones, sheer cliffs, and rock formations like Phantom Ship; visitors can take boat tours that include Wizard Island (a 763-foot cinder cone formed after Mount Mazama's eruption about 7,700 years ago). Editor's note: Crater Lake and the Cleetwood Cove Trail will be closed to swimmers, boaters, and hikers from 2026 to 2029 for construction — check the national park website for updates." - Joe Yogerst Joe Yogerst Joe Yogerst is a writer, editor, and photographer with over three decades of experience covering travel. His articles have appeared in The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Time, and he has worked on more than 40 books for National Geographic. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"The national park in south-central Oregon is implementing widespread seasonal and indefinite closures following recent wildfire damage and to accommodate planned construction: boat tours and swimming at the lake will be suspended in 2026–2028, the North Entrance Road and Rim Drive are closed for the season until roughly June or July, and the Bald Crater Loop, Bert Creek, and Boundary Springs Trails remain closed until further notice. Visitors should plan accordingly; park officials aim to restore lake-related recreation by the 2029 season if work stays on schedule." - Travel + Leisure Editors
"A destination offering hiking and summer boat tours; the 33-mile Scenic Rim Drive is noted as a park highlight with many pullovers for breathtaking views." - Jill Krasny Jill Krasny Jill Krasny is a journalist based in New York. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, Esquire, The Financial Times, and Travel + Leisure. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A national park in Oregon known for its deep, blue crater lake and surrounding winter landscapes."