Top Crater Lake Adventure Tours: See the Best Packages

So, thinking about a trip to Crater Lake National Park? It is almost that deciding to go is the simple bit, and that sorting out the actual adventure you want can feel a bit like finding a needle in a haystack, yet this stunning park in Oregon has tons on offer, from seriously scenic hikes to boat trips on the intensely blue water. It’s really a case of working out what floats your boat – literally or figuratively. Crater Lake’s beauty has really captured the imagination of visitors for years.

Crater Lake Trolley Tour: A Relaxing Introduction

Actually, if you’re very new to Crater Lake, the Trolley Tour might be just the thing for you, very great place to start, that is. In a way, that comfy, guided ride will whisk you around the rim, pointing out all the major viewpoints and telling you all about the history and geology. First-timers love this, too it’s almost that it lets you get your bearings without having to hike too much, which, if you are honest, some people don’t mind at all! The Trolley Tour really gives an in-depth history lesson.

That is that the Trolley Tour is brilliant if you aren’t up for tackling lots of trails but want those postcard-perfect sights, anyway it’s a proper introduction. It usually lasts a couple of hours, and you get plenty of photo opportunities without breaking a sweat – ideal for all ages, really! Accessible travel options mean even more visitors can enjoy Crater Lake.

The Cleetwood Cove Trail and Boat Tour: Get Down to the Water

If you want to get a bit closer to the famed blue waters, that Cleetwood Cove Trail is pretty much your only shot at reaching the lake shore without some serious backcountry hiking, just a little trek!. So, the trail itself is only a mile long, but it’s steep. Like, seriously steep – switchbacks all the way. You drop around 700 feet in that mile, so keep that in mind; the way back up can be a bit of a leg burner. The views down, though, oh my! It’s that intense blue up close and it’s breathtaking; you may as well take a photo, or ten! Experience the vibrant blue from a different perspective.

Once you’re down at the shore, you can catch a boat tour out to Wizard Island, too it’s almost that something amazing, or around the lake itself. Seeing the caldera walls from the water gives you a different perspective entirely; you won’t regret it. That’s assuming you can handle the hike back up! Take water, wear decent shoes, and maybe pack a celebratory picnic for when you reach the top again, actually! Discover the magic of Wizard Island with a guided tour.

Wizard Island Summit Hike: Conquer the Cone

Let’s just say that if you’ve taken the boat tour to Wizard Island, you absolutely should hike to the top, very cool, that is. That’s the little volcano inside Crater Lake, by the way, you climb to the summit of. From the boat dock, it’s a fairly short but satisfying hike up to the crater rim. That views from the top are spectacular, naturally you can look down into the “Witches Cauldron”, that smaller crater inside Wizard Island’s crater. It is all quite something. Explore the unique ecology of Wizard Island’s peak.

Really remember to take water with you because the sun can be intense, and there’s no shade. Also, give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the scenery; it is worth soaking it all in. A little wander around the summit gives you 360-degree views of Crater Lake. Honestly, if you only do one hike on your visit, make it this one because that really is the center of the action! Enjoy panoramic views from a volcanic peak.

Plaikni Falls Trail: A Gentle Waterfall Walk

Alright so if you fancy something less strenuous but want to feel a bit more grounded, just a little calmer, Plaikni Falls Trail could be perfect, alright. This is that very easy, two-mile round trip that takes you through old-growth forest to a really lovely waterfall. It’s relatively flat, which makes it a great option for families with young kids or for anyone who isn’t keen on steep climbs; pretty great to bring along your children if you got them. Experience a relaxing stroll to beautiful waterfalls.

You know, that Plaikni Falls, well, they aren’t the biggest waterfall you’ll see, they’re very peaceful. That misty spray that surrounds the falls is really refreshing on a hot day, and it’s a lovely place to sit and have a snack before strolling back. In some respects it can all feel a world away from the grand scale of Crater Lake itself, but the peaceful woodland is great. Discover the charm of Oregon’s diverse forests.

Discovery Point Trail: Views for Everyone

That’s a popular pick with lots of different folk, seemingly this trail, that’s probably down to that views and easy access, actually this walk starts near the Rim Village, which has a gift shop and café, alright that’s handy to know. The trail meanders along the rim for a mile or so and offers fantastic views of Wizard Island and the lake, but not very strenuous! The whole path has slight ups and downs, in a way it feels great as you make your way. Stunning vistas await at every turn along this popular route.

The name “Discovery Point” is almost that it got chosen as the spot where, in 1853, three guys became the first white people to set eyes on Crater Lake, too it’s almost like it got marked on the map for all time. The viewpoint’s something amazing, and on a clear day, that is amazing as you can see for miles; also, it’s especially nice at sunset, by the way, as the light transforms the lake’s surface, it’s all very calm. Basically you can wander as far as you like along the rim here, soaking up some epic Oregon scenery. Experience the true essence of the region.