Crater Lake National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour

Begin your adventure near the park's south entrance. Pick up supplies, use the facilities, and prepare to explore one of America's most extraordinary natural wonders.

Learn how William Gladstone Steel spent 17 years convincing Congress to protect Crater Lake and create America's sixth national park.

The park's main visitor hub featuring panoramic lake views, exhibits, gift shops, and the historic Crater Lake Lodge.

One of the park's most rewarding hikes, leading to a historic fire lookout with spectacular views of Wizard Island and the entire caldera.

Named after the first non-Native visitor known to have seen Crater Lake, who nearly rode his mule over the edge while searching for gold.

One of the most iconic viewpoints in the park, offering unforgettable views of Wizard Island and Crater Lake's impossibly blue waters.

A towering volcanic formation named after the Klamath god of the underworld and tied to the park's most famous creation legend.

The only trail that reaches the lake's shoreline and departure point for Wizard Island boat tours. (Currently closed through 2029.)

See exposed layers of volcanic history revealing hundreds of thousands of years of eruptions in a single cliff face.

The trail to the highest peak in the park, rewarding hikers with sweeping views across Crater Lake and the Cascade Range.

The highest road-accessible viewpoint in the park and one of the best places to appreciate the lake's immense depth.

A striking orange-and-gold volcanic formation resembling a castle rising from the caldera wall.

View the park's second island—a jagged rock formation that resembles a ghostly sailing ship emerging from the lake.

A short walk to one of the park's most dramatic viewpoints overlooking Phantom Ship and the southeastern lake basin.

A picturesque 100-foot waterfall cascading through volcanic rock and one of the most visited waterfalls in the park.

Discover the story of Crater Lake on our self guided driving tour