When to Go

When to Go

Most of the park is only accessible in late June-early July through mid-October. The rest of the year, snow blocks all park roadways and entrances except Highway 62 and the access road to Rim Village from Mazama Village. Rim Drive is typically closed because of heavy snowfall from mid-October to mid-July, and you could encounter icy conditions any month of the year, particularly in early morning. Crater Lake receives more snowfall—an annual average of 44 feet—than any other national park except for Mount Rainier. For a real-time view of weather conditions at the rim, log onto the Crater Lake Lodge crater cam at www.craterlakelodges.com/cratercam.htm.

The park's high season is July and August. September and early October—which can be delightful—tend to draw smaller crowds. From October through June, the entire park virtually closes due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. The road is kept open just to the rim in winter, except during severe weather.