Crater Lake
Lake · Klamath County
Oregon 97604
Highlights
Deepest lake in the U.S. formed by volcano, stunning blue water
Oregon 97604 Get directions
Deepest lake in the U.S. formed by volcano, stunning blue water
Oregon 97604 Get directions
"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."
"Crater Lake National Park is known for its unique landscape, featuring the deepest lake in the U.S. formed by a collapsed volcano. The lake is unusually clear and blue, fed by rain and snow. The park offers activities like the Rim Drive, hiking, snowshoeing, and skiing." - Evie Carrick Evie Carrick Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'
