Rim Drive
A scenic road of about 53 km encircling Crater Lake, with more than 30 viewpoints along the way for looking down on the deep blue lake from different angles.
Rim Drive was built in the 1920s and 1930s. It follows the edge of the caldera for about 53 km, at elevations between 1,900 and 2,400 meters, and has more than 30 viewpoints. On the western section are Discovery Point, where prospectors first saw the lake in 1853, and Watchman Peak. On the northern section is Merriam Point, and on the eastern section are Cloudcap Overlook, Pumice Castle and Ghost Ship Overlook. Driving the full loop without stopping takes about 1.5 hours. Stopping at each viewpoint takes half a day to a full day. In winter only the south entrance to Rim Village is kept open, and the full road usually opens in July. In summer there are car-free days when you can cycle the route. A national park entrance pass is required, costing about USD 30-35 per vehicle, and annual passes are valid.
Opening hours
Seasonal; about July–October
Nearby sights
- Rim Village & Crater Lake Lodge
- Steel Visitor Center
- Garfield Peak
- Castle Crest Wildflower Trail
- Wizard Island
- Watchman Peak
- Vidae Falls
- Phantom Ship Overlook