Park Menu
  Introduction

Park Index

  Activities
Hiking, Biking & Horses
Boat Trips
Scenic Driving & Wildlife Viewing
Winter Activities
Camping
Trail Finder

  Overview Map

  Essentials
Weather
Lodging

Resources

Community
Crater Lake Forum

Related Resources
Oregon Resources

online favorites
PARKS
Crater Lake National Park
Boat Trips

Discover new dimensions of Crater Lake, whether visible, submerged, or intangible in a two-hour, ranger-narrated boat tour operated by the Xanterra Parks & Resorts in cooperation with the National Park Service. Boat tours begin in early July; however, inquire at the park visitor centers to ensure correct information.

Family Activity
GORP's Family Forum offers new ideas for family vacations. Post your questions or share your own experiences.

The boats are accessible only by hiking the one mile Cleetwood Cove trail located on the north side of Crater Lake. It climbs 700 feet in elevation from dock to crater rim and is recommended only for those in good physical condition. It is not recommended if you have heart, breathing, or leg problems.

Temperatures on the lake may be much cooler than those at the trailhead so bring extra clothing and a hat. No drinking water is available at Cleetwood Cove. You will need to bring your own. Composting toilets are available at the boat dock. A vault toilet is available at the trailhead.

Tickets are purchased at the ticket booth in the parking lot at the trailhead of Cleetwood Cove. No reservations are taken. Allow at least one hour to drive from Rim Village to Cleetwood Cove parking area and to hike down the steep trail.

Wizard Island Options: Boats stop at Wizard Island. It is possible to stay on the island and take a later boat back. However, your return journey is dependent upon available space on returning boats. You are not guaranteed a ride back until the final tour of the day, possibly arriving at the Cleetwood Dock as late as 6:30 p.m. There are two hiking trails on Wizard Island. There is no camping allowed on the Island. Keep in mind that Wizard Island is a remarkable place: an infant cinder cone with all the expected hazards: extremely rough lava, loose cinder, and dry conditions. Use caution when hiking. A pit toilet is located at the dock area. There are no other facilities provided for the public on Wizard Island.

Return to *Top

RELATED GORP LINKS
*GORP Parks and Preserves
*Oregon Resources
*GORPtravel



Related Pacific Coast Trips

Related Paddling Trips

Road Trip Guides

National Park Guides

Hiking Guides

Today's Gear Guy

Gear Guides
[from Outside magazine]