Crater Lake National Park

A travel journal to Crater Lake National Park by Judy

Crater Lake National Park is one of our favorite destinations here in Southern Oregon. The lake was formed when Mt.Mazama erupted 7700 years ago.

  • 6 reviews
  • 1 story/tip
The elevation at Crater Lake Lodge is 7100 ft. above sea level. The lake is deep (1939ft), cold, and very clear. Wizard Island can be reached by guided tours. You can drive the 33 mile rim road around the lake after the snow melts in late June. You'll see many spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains. There's a hiking trail to the top of Mt. Scott (8929 ft) well worth the effort.

Quick Tips:

If you enjoy hiking or cross-country skiing, then Crater Lake National Park is for you. The Lodge is open from mid-June till October, weather permitting. The coffee shop at the lodge is open all year.

Best Way To Get Around:

The lodge has recently been refurbished and the rooms are rustic but elegant. Most rooms have patios and picture windows which allow spectacular views of the lake. Unfortunately the hotel is only open from early June to mid-October, weather permitting. Crater Lake gets at least 10 ft. of snow each winter.
  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by Judy on September 18, 2000

Crater Lake Lodge
Crater Lake National Park Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
(541) 830-8700

Classic French and Italian menu deals with Northwest cuisine. Gourmet lunch or dinner available. Chef Michael Isaacson has 25 years experience: home made bouillabaisse, hand-made pastas, etc. All very delicious. Hearty breakfasts are also available.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Judy on September 29, 2000

Crater Lake Lodge Dining room
Rim Road Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Llao Rock Cafe/ Watchman RestaurantBest of IgoUgo

Restaurant | "Llao Rock Cafe/Watchman Restaurant"

For budget-minded visitors to the park. Good burgers, fries, sodas, sandwiches, salads, ice cream. Mostly fast food suitable the busy families 'on the go.' Clean and good service.
  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by Judy on September 29, 2000

Llao Rock Cafe/ Watchman Restaurant
Rim Drive Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Mt. ScottBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

The hike is gentle at first, but becomes more difficult as you near the top. Every turn provides breathtaking views of Crater Lake. You can see many mountains including Mt. Theilsen and Mt. Bailey.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Judy on September 18, 2000

Mt. Scott
Crater Lake National Park Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Rim RoadBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

This is an experience you'll never forget. The spectacular views of the lake and the clear mountain air are very invigorating. We've skied partway around the lake, but if you have the time and stamina, the full 33 miles can be skied in two days.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Judy on September 18, 2000

Rim Road
Crater Lake National Park Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Drive the Rim RoadBest of IgoUgo

Story/Tip

This 33 mile drive circles the Caldera Rim. There are many opportunities to pull over for views of the lake. Bring a picnic lunch and take your time. This is a wonderful way to see this spectacular work of nature. The rim drive is closed in the winter.

About the Writer

Judy
Judy
Grants Pass, Oregon

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