Crater Lake National Park: Deep Lakes and a Collapsed Volcano
Crater Lake National Park
“An azure-blue caldera lake formed by a collapsed volcano—America’s deepest lake framed by steep cliffs and ancient forests.”
Park Overview
Located in southern Oregon, Crater Lake National Park preserves the 1,943‑ft deep caldera lake left behind when Mount Mazama collapsed around 7,700 years ago. At roughly 183,000 acres, the park surrounds the lake and nearby forests and peaks. Established in 1902, it is Oregon’s only national park and the fifth‑oldest in the U.S.
Fast Facts
| Location | Klamath County, Oregon |
| Established | May 22, 1902 |
| Area | ~183,224 acres |
| Lake Depth | Max 1,949 ft; avg 1,148 ft |
| Lake Elevation | 6,178 ft |
| Highest Peak | Mount Scott (8,929 ft) |
| Visitors (2022) | ~527,000 |
What to See & Do
- Rim Drive – A 33‑mile scenic loop around the crater rim with 30+ overlooks including Sinnott Memorial and Cloudcap viewpoints.
- Cleetwood Cove Trail & Boat Tours – The only trail descending to the lake’s shore; trails and boat access are closing for rehabilitation in late 2025.
- Hikes: Garfield Peak, Watchman, Castle Crest Wildflower Garden, Plaikni & Vidae Falls—with stunning lake and forest views.
- Boat Trips to Wizard Island – Ranger-led tours depart from Cleetwood Cove to the lake’s volcanic cinder cone.
- Scenic Drives & Winter Sports – Trails open for hiking in summer and skiing/snowshoeing in winter under snow‑shrouded pines.
Geology & Natural History
Crater Lake formed when Mount Mazama erupted, collapsing into a 4,000‑ft deep caldera that later filled with snow and rain. The lagoon holds no streams, so its crystal-clear, cobalt-blue water is renewed naturally every ~150 years. Its clarity and color are unmatched.
Wildlife & Ecosystems
The park’s ecosystem includes ancient forests, meadows, and rocky slopes hosting diverse wildlife: black bears, elk, coyotes, bighorn sheep, deer, pika, bobcats, and over 120 bird species. Unique species like the Mazama newt face conservation threats linked to introduced fish and crayfish.
Human History & Conservation
Klamath Indigenous people regard Crater Lake (Giiwas) as sacred. The lake was first documented by John Wesley Hillman in 1853. Thanks to William Gladstone Steel’s advocacy, the park was established in 1902. Historic structures like Crater Lake Lodge, Rim Village, and Sinnott Memorial Overlook were built in the 1920s–30s.