One of Oregon’s Best-Kept Winter Secrets
During the winter months, Crater Lake National Park converts into a pristine playground for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and quiet winter exploration. While seasonal storms can disrupt the lake's views, catching a glimpse of the deep blue lake with snowy reflections is an unforgettable experience.
Crater Lake National Park
The winter season at Crater Lake National Park typically stretches from November-March and the only entrance to the park is via the South Entrance along Highway 62. This road is the only one maintained during the winter months. The famous 33-mile Rim Drive, which completely circles the lake, closes to wheeled vehicles during these months and becoming a route dedicated only to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Access to Rim Village is well-maintained as conditions allow, although heavy snowfall can temporarily close the road.
The winter entrance fee is $20 per vehicle (valid for 7 days), this fee is collected at the Annie Springs Entrance Station. The "America the Beautiful Pass" is also valid to use for entry at this entrance as well.
What to do
For those looking to explore the park on foot, snowshoeing along the buried West Rim offers opportunities to experience its snow-covered forests and multiple dramatic overlooks. Any route toward Discovery Point can provide some of the area's most memorable winter scenery, although the winter conditions and visibility can vary considerably.
If you don't have equipment rentals are available for both snowshoes and skis at the Rim Village Cafe and Gift Shop. Typically, available from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM this can vary based on snow conditions. Also, the National Park Service offers ranger-guided snowshoeing tours at no additional cost, and no previous experience is necessary.
These roughly two-hour excursions explore the forests and snow-covered meadows surrounding the rim.
Other more advanced activities include snowmobiling and backcountry camping, both require permits but not guided through the National Park Service. Outside the park's entrance snowmobiles are also available, specifically for use on the designated nine-mile route approaching North Junction from Highway 138, subject to seasonal snow conditions and park regulations.
Expert Advice
Visibility/Conditions
At times the lake views can be obscured by heavy fog and lingering snowstorms much of the winter season. In fact, the National Park Service reports that the lake is hidden by clouds and snowstorms approximately 50% of the winter season. Be sure to check the NPS Crater Lake Current Conditions before heading up the mountain. Regardless of conditions, carrying tire chains are often mandatory to enter the park unless you have an AWD vehicle with winter tread.
No Fuel or Winter Lodging
All overnight accommodations are closed including Crater Lake Lodge and Mazama Campground. Nearby communities offer additional lodging options for anyone looking to make this adventure a longer winter getaway. From October until late May, gasoline is also unavailable within the park, make sure to fill your gas tank completely before entering the park.
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