The Best Time of Year to Visit Crater Lake—Pros and Cons!
Most people think the best time to visit Crater Lake is in the summer when the sun is shining and the skies are clear… and maybe they are right?!
But fall offers it’s own perks, as does spring… and even winter!
So what’s the trade off? When is the best time to visit Crater Lake!?
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Table of Contents
When to Visit Crater Lake: Pros and Cons for Every Season
Let’s make a quick list of pros and cons so you can see which is best for your trip. Each season offers something different…
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Winter (December to February)
Pros:
- Winter sports: Enjoy activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
- Peaceful and serene: Very few crowds.
- Snowy views: Crater Lake, blanketed in snow, is a sight!
Cons:
- Rim Drive closed: The famous Rim Drive is inaccessible due to snow.
- Limited access: Many trails and roads are closed.
- Chilly temperatures: Be prepared for cooold, snowy conditions!
Spring (March to May)
Pros:
- Fewer visitors: Avoid the summer crowds while still enjoying some early-season sunshine.
- Snow lingering: The crater rim often still has snow, making for stunning and unique photo ops.
- Cool temperatures: Comfortable hiking weather before the summer heat kicks in.
Cons:
- Rim Drive may still be closed: Depending on the snowpack, the Rim Drive may not fully open until late spring or early summer.
- Variable conditions: Weather can be unpredictable with a mix of sunshine, rain, and snow.
Summer (June to August)
Pros:
- Full access: The Crater Lake Rim Drive and all of Crater Lakes’s trails are open!
- Best weather: Expect warm temperatures and clear skies, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and swimming (if you dare)!
- Cleetwood Cove: One of the best hikes and the only way to get to Wizard Island!
Cons:
- Crowds: Summer is peak tourist season, meaning more people and busier trails.
- Limited solitude: You’ll be sharing the views and hikes with lots of others.
- Higher prices: Accommodations and services can be more expensive in peak season.
READ MORE: Best Lakes in Oregon!
Fall (September to November)
Pros:
- Cooler temperatures: Perfect for hiking without the summer heat.
- Fewer crowds: Get the peaceful vibe of Crater Lake without the summer rush. The Crater Lake Rim Road and hikes will be more enjoyable.
Cons:
- Wildfire risk: Fall is fire season in Oregon, and air quality can be poor if fires are nearby.
- Rim Drive may start to close: As temperatures drop, sections of the Rim Drive could close early due to snow. Check here for all road updates at Crater Lake.
Which time of year will you be visiting?
READ MORE: BEST Things to Do at Crater Lake
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