When you look at the deep blue waters of Crater Lake up close, it’s pretty easy to see why it’s one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon.
Formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano Mt. Mazama, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in America, leaving all who visit its waters in awe. There are many different ways to see the lake. You can bike or drive the 33-mile rim drive, hike up to the top of a fire lookout tower or down to the water below. You can take a boat tour of the lake in the summer (closed during 2025 and 2026 seasons), or cross-country ski or snowshoe your way around the rim in the winter.
When you’re done adventuring at Crater Lake National Park there’s lots more to see in this beautiful region of Southern Oregon. Here are some ideas to start.
Oregon Shakespeare Festival
Between February and November each year, Ashland hosts 11 plays at the Tony Award-winning Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Ashland itself is also home to more than 20 art galleries and is surrounded by wineries in the Rogue and Applegate valleys. Ashland is about 90 minutes southwest of Crater Lake.
Oregon Caves National Monument
The Oregon Caves National Monument is one of the few marble caves in the world. Hike on trails in a remnant old-growth coniferous forest, or go below ground to visit an active marble cave created by natural forces over hundreds of thousands of years. You can sign up for one of four different cave tours, with different levels suited for families and small children or more adventurous visitors who might enjoy caving by candlelight. In 2024 the monument was certified as Oregon’s second International Dark Sky Park, recognizing its stewardship for the night-sky environment. The caves are about three hours southwest of Crater Lake.
The Rogue River
One of the original eight rivers in the nation to be protected by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 for its “outstandingly remarkable values,” the Rogue River today is home to some of the best rafting, fishing, kayaking, camping and hiking you’ll find in Oregon. The Rogue River is less than two hours southwest of Crater Lake.
Getting There
Take the scenic route to Crater Lake. The Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway circumnavigates the lake on Rim Drive, then passes through the vibrant city of Klamath Falls, where you’ll find a treasure trove of Western history at the Favell Museum and bird watching at the wildlife refuges that make up the Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge.
