Mount Mazama, a 12,000-foot-tall volcano, erupted and collapsed approximately 7,700 years ago, forming Crater Lake. Crater Lake was formed by the fall of a volcano. Photo by David Grimes, National Park Service.ģ. A heavy winter snow at Crater Lake National Park. If you’d rather experience the winter season from the warm comfort of the indoors, check out the Steel Visitor Center or catch partial views of the lake from the observation room at Rim Village. While parts of the park close for winter weather, there are plenty of opportunities to have fun in the snow - from snowshoeing with a park ranger to cross-country skiing, sledding and snowmobiling. That’s equivalent to 1.4 inches of snow every day for a year! The park’s official winter season lasts from November to April, but visitors are advised that snow may linger into May and June. With an annual average of 43 feet of snow, Crater Lake is one of the snowiest places in United States. Visitors can swim at designated areas, but beware - the water is usually very cold! The water of Crater Lake is a deep, gorgeous blue.

This means no sediment or mineral deposits are carried into the lake, helping it maintain its rich color and making it one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the world. Famous for its beautiful blue color, the lake’s water comes directly from snow or rain - there are no inlets from other water sources. At 1,943 feet deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in America. The blue beauty of Crater Lake extends beyond its depth. To celebrate the incredible natural landscape of our nation’s 6th national park, check out 12 things you might not know about Crater Lake.ġ. With countless other activities and thousands of acres to explore, adventure is endless at Crater Lake.

Crowning the Cascade Mountain Range, the park contains vibrant forests, bountiful wildlife and an awe-inspiring blue lake worthy of its nickname “lake majesty.” Its geologic history spans back thousands of years and inspires visitors today as they swim, snowshoe, ski, hike and cycle through the mountainous terrain.

Established on May 22, 1902, Crater Lake National Park in Oregon is a natural wonder born out of a cataclysmic volcanic eruption.

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