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Home , Rim Drive, Union Peak

U.S. Department of the Interior

Refections Visitor Guide Winter/Spring 2019-2020

Rotary plow at Rim Village One Lake, Many Moods

Crater Lake is unpredictable. No matter how Clouds also create scenes of stunning drama. many times you’ve seen it before, you can When storms end, the lake’s features slowly never be sure exactly what to expect on your reveal themselves to fortunate onlookers. next visit to the rim. The lake’s appearance And once every few years, some lucky visitors is ever-changing and often surprising. This reach the rim to fnd a “smoking cauldron”— is especially true in the winter—perhaps the the crater flled with fog, under a blue sky (see best time of year to witness Crater Lake at its photo on back page). This occurs when cold, most wild and beautiful. moist air becomes trapped in the during a temperature inversion. The lake’s character depends partly on the wind. On many winter days, strong winds Sometimes, too, Crater Lake is masked by ice. whip across the water. The strongest gusts It forms along the shore during cold snaps. materialize as whitecaps and can be seen Seeing the lake entirely frozen over, however, Keeping the Park marching, like angry armies, across the width is a once-in-a-lifetime experience (the lake’s of the lake. Calm days in the winter are few tremendous depth makes its surface freeze- Open is “Snow” and far between, but, when they occur, the resistant). In 1949, the last time the lake Snowshoe with a

scene is entirely diferent. The lake becomes became ice-bound, it froze for 2½ months Easy Task a mirror and refects the sky in perfect and a thick layer of snow accumulated on top. Park Ranger symmetry; the air is so quiet you can hear a Typically, though, seeing bergs of snow and What were you doing at 4:00 am this Ranger-led snowshoe walks are a fun way morning? If you were a member of the pine needle drop. ice in the water is simply an indication that an to experience the winter wonderland of Crater Lake roads crew, you might have avalanche has recently occurred on the inner Crater Lake National Park. This winter, if been reporting for duty! The lake’s appearance (and frequent walls of the caldera. staffng and snow conditions allow, they disappearance) also depends on cloud cover. will take place on Saturdays, Sundays, and Trying to keep Highway 62 and the road Nearly 50% of the time in the winter and With so many variables (and we haven’t holidays from November 23 through April to Rim Village open year-round is no easy early spring, storms completely hide the lake even mentioned the color of the water, 26. Walks will also likely be offered daily task. Each day, the park’s heavy equipment from view. While disappointing for visitors which can vary from bright blue to slate from December 21 through January 5 operators work from 4:00 am to 8:00 pm, who have driven hours to get here, it’s during gray, with hues of red, orange, and purple (except on Christmas Day) and from March in two different shifts, clearing snow and these periods of rain and snow that the lake at sunrise and sunset), Crater Lake is never 20 through March 29. Snowshoes are sanding roads. During heavy storms, snow is replenished. Crater Lake wouldn’t be the same lake twice. And thank goodness! Its provided free of charge and no previous removal can become a 24-hour operation, America’s deepest lake without such wet unpredictability is one of its fnest attributes, snowshoeing experience is necessary. with crews working 12 hours at a time. winters, which dump an average of 43 feet one that makes visiting (and re-visiting) the (13 meters) of snow at Park Headquarters. park such a delightful and rewarding activity. The walks start at 1:00 pm, last 2 hours, “It can be a hazardous job,” reports one and cover 1 to 2 miles (1.6–3.2 km) of hilly operator, “especially when it’s dark and terrain. The route is up to the ranger, but white-out conditions are occurring. On a most walks begin at Rim Village and explore The surface of Crater Lake winding mountain road, you never know the forests and meadows along the rim of rarely freezes. During cold what’s around the next corner. It could be snaps, however, fngers of ice the caldera. Along the way, participants a tree across the road at windshield level, sometimes probe from the discover how winter affects Crater Lake a car stuck in the snow, or an avalanche.” shore out over the abyss. and the park’s plants and animals.

Snow plows were frst used at Crater Lake Space on each tour is limited, and advance in 1930. Prior to that, crews used shovels reservations are recommended. You can and dynamite to clear the roads each sign up at the Steel Visitor Center or by Rangers use a giant spring. Today, the park employs 6 operators “ruler” to measure calling 541-594-3100. Participants must and 2 mechanics who use both push plows snow depth at Park be at least 8 years old, healthy enough for and rotary plows. The rotary plows are Headquarters. They’ve a moderate-to-strenuous hike, and have equipped with a fan that can shoot snow measured snow depth warm clothing and water-resistant footwear. 75 to 80 feet (24 meters) into the air. To and snowfall at this control where the snow lands, the operator location since 1931. Scout troops, hiking clubs, and other can vary the angle and volume of output. Most years, as in this organized groups of 10 or more people photo, the mid-winter may be able to arrange for their own The amount of snow moved each winter snowpack exceeds 10 ranger-led walk (staff permitting). Group by the park’s roads crew is astounding. feet (3 meters) deep, walks are available on weekdays as well as but last winter, it never (continued on back page) on weekends. touched the 4-foot (1.2-meter) mark.

The park is central to the cultural traditions of Park Profle local American Indian tribes, whose ancestors Watch the Park Film witnessed the lake’s formation. Crater Lake National Park protects the deepest Curious to learn more about Crater Lake? lake in the United States. Fed by rain and snow Today, old-growth forests blanket the ’s Stop by the Steel Visitor Center to watch the (but no rivers or streams), the lake is considered outer slopes, harboring more than 700 native park’s 22-minute introductory flm, shown every to be the cleanest and clearest large body of plant species and a wide variety of animals, half hour. It explores the park’s signifcance water in the world. including several that are rare or endangered. and the wonder that Crater Lake has inspired for generations. The flm, entitled Crater Lake: The lake rests inside a caldera formed • Park established: 1902 Into the Deep, includes dramatic underwater 7,700 years ago when a 12,000-foot-tall • Size: 183,000 acres (74,060 hectares) footage along with state-of-the-art animation (3,600-meter) volcano collapsed following • Annual visitation: 700,000 people that depicts the lake’s violent, volcanic past. a major eruption. The eruption may have • Lake depth: 1,943 feet (592 meters) been the largest in North America in the past • Lake width: 4.5 to 6 miles (7 to 10 km) 640,000 years. Later eruptions formed Wizard • Lake volume: 5 trillion gallons (19 tr. liters) Island, a cinder cone near the southwest shore. • Last time the lake froze over: 1949 Regional Map Winter Recr National Park Service Bend U.S. Dept. of the Interior Eugene NATIONAL Crater Lake Snowmobile FORESTS 20 Route 58 Steel Llao Rock Bay 97 8049ft Crater Lake Visitor Guide North Junction 2453m Winter/Spring 2019-2020 7025ft 5 2142m Llao Bay This is the offcial trip-planner and newspaper 138 of Crater Lake National Park. It is published Chemult Diamond Lake Diamond Lake Devils -1788ft twice a year and funded by the Crater Lake Overlook Backbone -545m Roseburg 138 Crater Lake Natural History Association through sales 230

National Park Watchman Overlook l made in the visitor center bookstore. e North Entrance Road n Union Creek n & are a Watchman Peak h C Park Mailing Address: CLOSED in winter 8013ft Wizard Prospect 62 l Crater to automobiles 2442m l Island Crater Lake National Park e Elevation at lake level: 62 k PO Box 7 Fort S 6173ft Klamath Overlook 6940ft Crater Lake, OR 97604 Grants Chiloquin 2116m 1882m 234 NATIONAL Pass 62 FORESTS Phone: 541-594-3000 97 Lightning Wizard Medford Springs Trail -1548ft Website: www.nps.gov/crla Island -472m Email: [email protected] 199 Klamath Falls Overlook Ashland Discovery Point Rim Village Rim Café & Gift Shop Accessibility visitor center for a list 7100ft The Steel Visitor Center of accommodations 2165m Hemlock Loop and Rim Village Café & outside the park. Pacific West Rim Drive Raven Trail Gift Shop are accessible Roads & Travel Crest to people with mobility Lost & Found Trail impairments. Weather Report lost & found The park is open year-round, 24 Village is also kept open as much Dutton Creek Trail permitting, partial views items to the Steel Visitor Garfield hours a day. Some roads, trails, as possible (typically about 80% Castle Creek of Crater Lake can be Center or call the park’s Park Peak and facilities, however, are closed of the time in the winter), but it’s 8054ft enjoyed from the top lost & found offce at Headquarters 2455m foor of the gift shop, 541-594-3060. seasonally due to snow. sometimes closed for days or weeks Steel Visitor Center accessible via elevator. at a time during periods of heavy Ca 6450ft stle 1966m Park Features The North Entrance Road and snow. When the road is open and Creek Drinking Water Leave rocks, plants, Rim Drive are closed to cars in the weather permits, Rim Village ofers There is a drinking animals, and artifacts 62 fountain and bottle- undisturbed for others to winter. They close for the season spectacular views of Crater Lake. on November 1 (or earlier if there For current road and weather flling station inside the enjoy. It is prohibited to to r Steel Visitor Center. collect, deface, disturb, is signifcant snowfall). Crews conditions, call 541-594-3100. Medford C East Rim Annie Spring Summit and e Drive

5 y

or destroy natural or begin removing snow from these Spur Trail b of First

d r r

Drones cultural features. o C Climb roads in April, but opening dates Even when plowed, park roads o

G The operation of remote- vary. The North Entrance Road can be snow-packed and icy. n o controlled aircraft in the Pets s n and West Rim Drive tend to open Drive slowly, be alert for plows, u park is prohibited. Please Pets on a leash (or M in early June. The East Rim Drive and come prepared with tires report violators to the otherwise physically Mazama Loop

nearest park employee. restrained) are allowed typically opens in early July. that have good traction. Carrying

in the park, provided k

chains is advisable during snow r o

Emergencies they stay within 50 feet F Highway 62 is plowed daily and storms. Before visiting, check the A Pacific n Dial 911 to report any (15 meters) of plowed n open year-round, as is the 4-mile weather forecast. For your safety, Crest ie emergency, 24 hours roads and parking lots. Trail 62

road from Highway 62 to Park do not stop or park in the roadway. t a day. An emergency Dogs on a leash are also s to Klamath a Headquarters. The 3-mile road Parking is allowed only in plowed C E phone is located out- allowed on the Pacifc r Falls and e 97 e k side the “snow tunnel” Crest Ski Trail, but not on from Park Headquarters to Rim pullouts and parking lots. entrance to the admin- other trails, or off-trail. istration building at Park Pets are not allowed Headquarters. First aid in park buildings. Solid The snowmobile route is open as is available at the Steel waste must be picked conditions permit, typically from Visitor Center or nearby up immediately and Winter Closures Activities December through March. Ranger Station. disposed of properly, in a trash can or toilet. Many park facilities are closed in the Entrance Fee winter and early spring. Here are some Diamond Lake Resort, 5 miles (8 In the winter (November Phones projected operating dates for 2020: Lake Viewing km) north of the park, has snow- 1 through May 21), the Cell phone reception in When skies are clear, excellent mobiles available for rent. Renting May 15–Oct. 11 park’s entrance fee is the park is unreliable. views of Crater Lake can be a 1- or 2-person snowmobile costs $15 per car, good for You may have luck at May 22–Sept. 27 Mazama Village Cabins $175 for 2 hours, $225 for 3 hours, May 22–Sept. 27 Annie Creek Restaurant enjoyed at Rim Village. During 7 days. You can pay by Rim Village. There is a $275 for 4 hours, or $425 for cash or credit card. Your 24-hour emergency land- May 22–Sept. 27 Mazama Village Store storms, however, the lake is fees are put to work line outside the “snow May 22–Oct. 12 Mazama Gas Station typically obscured by clouds. 8 hours, plus the cost of fuel. improving services and tunnel” entrance to the May 22–Sept. 27 Rim Visitor Center The lake is completely “invisible” Signifcant discounts may be avail- facilities. Thank you for administration building June 12–Sept. 27 Mazama Campground about 50% of the time in the able for overnight guests. For more supporting your national at Park Headquarters. June 26–Sept. 13 Boat Tours winter and early spring! To avoid information, call 541-793-3333 or parks! June 26–Sept. 30 Trolley Tours visit www.diamondlake.net. Post Offce June 26–Oct. 31 Sinnott Overlook disappointment, check the Gasoline A U.S. Post Offce is July 1–Oct. 12 Lost Creek Campground weather forecast before you leave Gasoline is not available open Monday through home. To check visibility at Rim Steel Visitor Center Backcountry in the park in the winter. Saturday in the visitor Village, visit the park’s website Gas is available in the center. Winter hours are (www.nps.gov/crla) to view a Camping nearby communities 10:00 am–2:00 pm. Backpacking is allowed in the park of Chiloquin, Prospect, webcam pointed toward the lake. An observation room on the top year-round. Winter ofers well- and Diamond Lake. Recycling foor of the café provides partial Charging stations for Aluminum cans and plas- A partial view of Crater Lake prepared skiers and snowshoers Facilities views of Crater Lake (weather electric vehicles may be tic bottles are accepted can usually be obtained from opportunities to experience permitting). It also features a available; inquire at the at the Rim Village Café. an observation room on the top occasions of unique beauty and few exhibits and an information visitor center. foor of the Rim Café & Gift solitude. All campers must obtain Wildlife desk stafed by volunteers most Restrooms Shop. The observation room is a free backcountry permit, in Lodging & Camping Do not feed wildlife, There is a 24-hour restroom at weekends. There are no lodges or including birds and accessible via elevator. For a better person, from the Ranger Station campgrounds open in squirrels. Exposing them Rim Village. Restrooms can also view of the lake (and when deep at Park Headquarters. The Ranger the park in the winter. to our food alters their be found inside the Steel Visitor Steel Visitor snow blocks the view from the Station is located 100 yards (90 Overnight camping in behavior, is bad for Center and Rim Village Gift Shop observation room), you’ll need meters) south of the Steel Visitor pullouts and parking lots their health, and can during business hours. Center to climb up a snowbank and take Center and is open every day from is prohibited. Overnight be dangerous for you. The Steel Visitor Center at Park 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. backpacking is allowed, Approaching, touching, 20 to 30 steps across the snow. A Headquarters is open every day with a permit (see info feeding, and disturbing Rim Café & “snow ramp” across from the Rim at right). Ask at the wildlife are prohibited. of the year except December 25. Village restroom building provides Vehicles must be left overnight Gift Shop Winter hours are 10:00 am–4:00 the easiest access to the top of at Park Headquarters (not at The café & gift shop is open pm, becoming 9:00 am–5:00 pm the snow, which can be 10 to 15 Rim Village). The most popular daily except on November 28, in mid-April. feet (3 to 4.6 meters) deep. Be overnight trip is up the Raven December 25, and on days when careful—the snow ramp can be icy Trail, out-and-back along the West the road to Rim Village is closed Rangers are available to answer and slippery, and dangerous snow Rim Drive, then back down the due to snow. Hours of operation: questions, provide weather cornices overhanging the rim of Raven Trail. The most popular forecasts, recommend trails, the crater may be difcult to spot. extended trip is the 31-mile (50-  Nov. 4–March 12 10 am–4 pm and help plan your park visit. Stay back from the edge! km) circuit around Crater Lake  March 13–May 14 10 am–5 pm Postcards, maps, books, and (see box, top right). Snow camping  May 15–June 4 10 am–6 pm other educational materials are is required; there are no public available for sale (see back page). Snowmobiling huts or shelters. Camps must be The café serves quick meals Kids ages 6 through 12 can earn In the winter, the park’s North at least 1 mile (1.6 km) from the including hot sandwiches, chili, an ofcial Junior Ranger badge by Entrance Road is groomed for nearest plowed road, out of sight and soup. Beverages include hot completing a free activity book. snowmobiles, which may travel of any ski trail or route, and at least chocolate, cofee, juice, and soft as far as the rim of Crater Lake. 100 feet (30 meters) back from Stay back from the edge of drinks. The large gift shop ofers A 22-minute flm, Into the Deep, is Snowmobiles must stay on the the edge of the caldera. For trip- the crater! Unstable ledges of a wide selection of souvenirs, shown every half hour. The flm groomed and marked route; they planning advice and a complete list snow, called cornices, extend beyond the rim. as well as winter clothing and explores the park’s signifcance are not allowed on the Rim Drive, of regulations, stop by the Ranger snowshoe rentals (see next page). and the lake’s volcanic past. and of-route travel is prohibited. Station or call 541-594-3060. Winter Recreation Map Rim Village Circling the Lake North West Rim Café Crater Each winter, approximately 100 skiers and 75 Rim & Gift Shop snowshoers travel all the way around Crater Drive Lake Lake. It’s a trip that can be exceptionally d e Restrooms o v o o East Rim rewarding, with unforgettable views. It can tw C e Drive B Lake also be physically and mentally demanding— le C Viewing Rim Visitor Center a test of endurance and outdoor skills. (closed in winter) t When the weather is clear and snow

ck conditions are good, the 31-mile (50-km) f Merriam Cone Lake loop takes an average of 3 days to complete. e -486ft ge Viewing Storms, however, force many parties to -148m Grotto turn back or spend extra nights. The route Cove Crater Lake Lodge (closed is unmarked, hard to follow in places, and Deepest point in winter) crossed by several avalanche paths. Those S below lake surface F F U attempting the trip should be experienced in -1943ft L B -592m winter camping, off-trail travel, and avalanche T T Crater Lake O safety. A backcountry permit is required. C S Raven Elevation at lake level: Dutton Hemlock Trail Creek Loop Although the loop can typically be done any Trail Cloudcap time between late November and early May, 8065ft the most popular months are March and 2458m Pumice Castle Ski Trail or Route April. Spring provides more hours of daylight to Park Overlook Pedestrian Access than the winter months and longer periods Headquarters of clear weather. and 62 Road Danger Bay Mount Scott (highest point in park) 8929ft 2721m or turn back if conditions warrant. If you avalanche zone. (A detailed map of the Overlook continue, possible destinations include Applegate Avalanche Bypass Route is Phantom Watchman Overlook, Diamond Lake Over- available at the Steel Visitor Center.) Sun A Ship ND Ski Trails ER look, and North Junction. Another option, Notch itself lies .25 miles (.4 km) north Dutton Cliffs SO N Avalanche Bypass BL popular with snowshoers, is to attain the of the East Rim Drive. To fnd it, leave the UF Crater Lake National Park features many FS summit of Watchman Peak via its western road at the apex of the sweeping right- Sun Notch S a miles of marked ski trails and unmarked n d ridge. Atop the peak is a fre lookout, built hand curve; the turnoff is not marked. The routes. The most popular are described in 1932 and still used each summer. view from Sun Notch is dramatic. Nearly Apple- Applegate gate here. The trails are not groomed and some 1,000 feet (305 meters) above the water, Avalanche C r may be hard to follow; ask at the Steel Peak Bypass e it directly overlooks a rocky island known e INTERMEDIATE TRAILS 8126ft k Visitor Center for more information. as the Phantom Ship. Stay back from the 2477m Pinnacles Road edge of the caldera and its dangerous, Vidae Avalanche Bypass EASIER TRAILS Hemlock Loop overhanging snow cornices. Falls Distance: 1.3 mi. (2.1 km) loop trail Garfeld-Applegate Ridge Mazama Loop This enjoyable loop trail offers a lot of Distance from trailhead: 3.2 mi. (5.1 km) variety. It explores a forest of mountain Distance: 1.7 mi. (2.7 km) loop trail Another lake-viewing option for snow- Vidae hemlock trees punctuated by meadows shoers and advanced skiers is to attain Ridge Grayback Drive Recommended for beginning skiers, this that provide distant views to the south Avalanche Avalanche Bypass the caldera’s rim between Garfeld Peak Bypass fat trail loops through Mazama Camp- and east. It can be skied in either direction, ground and provides views into Annie and Applegate Peak. This is an unmarked but traveling counterclockwise provides but straightforward ascent through open Su n 0 1 2 3 Kilometers Creek Canyon. It is marked with blue more interesting downhill slopes and meadows and groves of trees. Leave the Cr diamonds attached to the trees and, from ee turns. In this direction, the trail begins by Crater k 0 1 2 3 Miles East Rim Drive near the summit of the frst December through March, orange snow climbing 45 feet (14 meters) to its high Peak poles in the clearings. Trailhead: 4 mi. (6.4 climb. The rim is 1.4 miles (2.3 km) due Trail Avalanche Zone Ski Trail or Route point. It then drops 200 feet (61 meters) north, with an additional elevation gain of km) south of Park Headquarters, just north in elevation before gaining 155 feet (47 Snowmobile Route Off-Route Option of the summer fee booth and Highway 62. 950 feet (290 meters). Crater Peak meters) on its return to Rim Village. The Avalanche Bypass trail is marked with blue diamonds in the 7263ft Road Open to Cars ADVANCED TRAILS 2214m Trail or Route trees and, from December through March, Road Open Except During Periods of Heavy Snow West Rim Drive orange snow poles in the meadows. This is the park’s most popular ski route, Trailhead: Snow ramp across from the Raven Trail providing spectacular views of Crater Lake entrance to the Rim Village Café & Gift Distance: 1 mi. (1.6 km) and . It follows the West Rim Shop. The trail can also be accessed from Drive, which is unplowed from November a snow ramp near Crater Lake Lodge and The Raven Trail is a favorite of park rangers Skiing Snowboarding to mid-April. The route is not marked, but a roadside pullout approximately 1.5 mi. after work. It descends steeply from Rim Village to Park Headquarters, dropping The park features a variety of Snowboarding is allowed in the the path of the underlying road is generally (2.4 km) south of Rim Village. apparent. The route features gently 610 feet (186 meters) in elevation. It is marked trails and unmarked park, but extreme caution should rolling terrain and is suitable for skiers of typically skied one-way, downhill, which routes for cross-country skiing be used. Snowboarders should all abilities, as long as snow conditions East Rim Drive requires two vehicles or a shuttle to the top. (see list on right). The trails are not be experienced in avalanche are good. When icy, the route can be Unless there’s fresh snow, the trail can be The East Rim Drive is a good alternative dangerously fast, but it fattens out halfway groomed, so skiers will often need safety and winter backcountry treacherous, especially just west of Rim to the West Rim Drive on windy days. The to break trail, sometimes through travel. Snowboarding inside the Village. It can also be windy and exposed, to Park Headquarters, where it crosses the forested route provides protection from the base of a large avalanche chute then runs deep snow. Conditions vary caldera is strictly prohibited. but occasional forested areas provide some elements and, upon reaching Sun Notch, protection. Trips of varying lengths are parallel to the road. During times of heavy greatly, from powder to slush to Snowboarding is also prohibited a spectacular view of Crater Lake and the snow, when the road to Rim Village is possible. Most skiers attempt to reach one Phantom Ship. The route is not marked, ice. Ask at the Steel Visitor Center on roads and parking lots that are of the following destinations before turning closed, the trail is also used by snowshoers for trail recommendations. open to automobile trafc. but skiers should have no trouble following who hike up it to view the lake. The trail is back to Rim Village. Trailhead: Snow ramp the path of the underlying road, which is across from the Rim Village restrooms. marked with blue diamonds except along unplowed from November to mid-June. Skiing is prohibited on Highway the rim of the lake. Upper Trailhead: Snow Snowshoeing Discovery Point The route is rated “intermediate” because ramp near Crater Lake Lodge. Ski east 62, the road to Rim Village, and it features longer and steeper climbs than Crater Lake National Park is a Distance from Rim Village: 1.2 mi. (1.9 km) along the rim, looking for blue diamonds at in parking lots. Skiing inside the the West Rim Drive and crosses several the head of a steep valley. Lower Trailhead: snowshoer’s paradise. To avoid Discovery Point is a popular summer pull- caldera is also strictly prohibited. out on the West Rim Drive. The overlook areas prone to avalanche. Trips of varying Roadside pullout 150 yards (137 meters) The park does not rent skis. Ask at getting lost, frst-time visitors are offers a fne view of Wizard Island and lengths are possible. Most skiers attempt south of Park Headquarters. the Steel Visitor Center for a list of advised to follow one of the park’s marks the spot where gold prospector to reach one of the following destinations before returning. Trailhead: Roadside rental locations outside the park. ski trails. As a courtesy to skiers, John Hillman frst set eyes on Crater Lake please refrain from walking on ski in 1853. The overlook is not signed but is pullout 150 yards (137 meters) south of Park Headquarters. tracks. Snowshoeing is prohibited fairly obvious as a broad, level viewpoint. Sledding inside the caldera, on Highway 62, Wizard Island Overlook Summit of First Climb There are no designated sled and on the road to Rim Village. Distance from Rim Village: 2.3 mi. (3.7 km) Distance from trailhead: 1.8 mi. (2.9 km) hills or snow-play areas in the This small, unmarked viewpoint provides an The road dips gently for the frst half mile park, but many opportunities for Snowshoe rentals are available at even better bird’s-eye view of Wizard Island. (.8 km), losing 70 feet (21 meters) of eleva- tion while passing the park’s employee sledding can be found. For your the Rim Village Gift Shop (unless The island is a cinder cone that erupted out of Crater Lake around 7,300 years ago. housing area. Then begins a steady climb, safety, sledding, innertubing, the road to Rim Village is closed). which in 1.3 miles (2.1 km) gains 420 feet and tobogganing are prohibited Adult snowshoes cost $16 per day, Union Peak Overlook (128 meters). The climb is popular with on Highway 62, the road to Rim kids snowshoes are $12.50 per Distance from Rim Village: 3.1 mi. (5.0 km) skiers looking for a short, invigorating work- Village, and in parking lots. Please day, and hiking poles are $4 per The next road segment is a steady climb, out. Views from the summit are limited, select areas that have gentle day. Overnight rentals are allowed; gaining 240 feet (73 meters) in elevation. but on the return trip Crater Lake Lodge is slopes, are away from trees and the rental price is good for a 24- On a clear day, the ascent is worth the visible on the skyline straight ahead. effort: just before the road curves sharply other obstructions, and provide a hour period. Renting snowshoes to the right, a small, unmarked viewpoint Vidae Falls Dutton Creek Trail safe, fat runout area. Several such is not necessary for the park’s on the left offers long-distance views of Distance from trailhead: 3.1 mi. (5.0 km) locations exist near Rim Village; a ranger-guided walks (see page 1), the Cascade Mountains. Union Peak, the Vidae Falls is a spring-fed cascade that Distance: 4.6 mi. (7.4 km) popular spot is the open meadow for which snowshoes are provided core of an old volcano, stands 8 miles drops 100 feet (30 meters) over a series This trail is little-used but offers a fun south of Crater Lake Lodge. free of charge. (13 km) to the south. To the left of Union of ledges on the west side of the road. and challenging backcountry experience. Peak is Mt. McLoughlin, 35 miles (56 km) In the winter, there’s usually not much to It is typically skied from north to south away. The views often extend as far as Mt. see: the falls slow to a trickle and become and therefore requires two vehicles or a Shasta, 100 miles (161 km) distant. mostly buried under snow. From the sum- shuttle. The top section, in places, is steep. mit of the frst climb, the road descends It descends through a forest of mountain Beyond Union Peak Overlook gradually to Vidae Falls, losing 190 feet hemlock and red fr, dropping 1,000 feet Distances from Rim Village– (58 meters) of elevation. Along the way, it (305 meters) in 2.5 miles (4 km) to meet Watchman Overlook: 3.9 mi. (6.3 km) traverses a potential avalanche area, which, the Pacifc Crest Trail. The trail then climbs Diamond Lake Overlook: 4.6 mi. (7.4 km) if conditions warrant, can be avoided by 250 feet (76 meters) to a junction. The left North Junction: 6.0 mi. (9.7 km) taking the marked Vidae Ridge Avalanche fork descends to Mazama Village; the right Exploring further requires caution. Just be- Bypass Trail. (A detailed map of the bypass fork continues along the PCT to a trailhead yond Union Peak Overlook, the road is cut trail is available at the Steel Visitor Center.) on Highway 62. The trail is marked with into a vertical cliff. When this roadcut flls blue diamonds and some older orange with snow, it may be advisable to leave the Sun Notch and red blazes, but skiers should carry a road and bypass the cliff higher up on the Distance from trailhead: 4.5 mi. (7.2 km) topographic map and a compass or GPS. slope. Next, the road traverses the north To view Crater Lake, skiers must continue Trailhead: Snow ramp across from the Rim face of Watchman Peak, an avalanche- on to Sun Notch, gaining an additional Village restrooms. Ski west, just past Rim prone slope that is sometimes dangerously 505 feet (154 meters) of elevation. Skiers Village, and look for the trailhead sign on icy. Do not hesitate to remove your skis must also cross—or bypass—a second the south side of West Rim Drive. Support Your Park— Shop in the Visitor Center Bookstore Volunteer Volunteer Your Time When you shop in the Steel Visitor Center, Ski Patrollers Looking for a hands-on way to help the park? Consider sharing your time and talents as a Crater Lake all proceeds from your purchase are VIP (Volunteer-In-Parks). Full-time volunteers are needed in the summer and winter to help staf invested back into the park. The bookstore visitor centers and present interpretive programs. Opportunities are advertised several times each is operated by the Crater Lake Natural year at www.volunteer.gov. Volunteers are provided free housing in exchange for 3 months of service. History Association, a nonproft organization To volunteer periodically, join The Friends of Crater Lake, a non-proft organization whose members established in 1942 to support the park’s help with special projects and events and operate a winter information desk at Rim Village. Learn educational and scientifc programs. The more at www.friendsofcraterlake.org. Or join the Crater Lake Ski Patrol, whose members assist winter association funds a variety of important visitors and maintain the park’s cross-country ski trails. Identifable by their bright red parkas, they projects, including the printing of this visitor receive training in wilderness frst aid, search and rescue, map and compass use, and avalanche safety in guide. Some of the bookstore’s offerings exchange for at least 6 days of service. For more information, visit www.craterlakeskipatrol.weebly.com. are described below. For a complete list of merchandise and to buy items online, visit www.craterlakeoregon.org. You can also Report Your Wildlife Sightings order by calling 541-594-3111. Scientists need your help! If you spot any interesting animals during your visit, or if you witness any unusual behavior, please let us know! Your observations will help us learn which animals live in the park and how they use it. In 2018, visitors and employees submitted 112 reports of 43 diferent species, Recommended Reading including the black-backed woodpecker, sage thrasher, short-horned lizard, mountain lion, and gray Crater Lake: The Story wolf. To share your sighting, email [email protected] or fnd a ranger at a visitor center. Let us know Behind the Scenery the date and precise location of your encounter, a detailed description of what you saw, and your name Large photos with and contact info, in case we have follow-up questions. And if you captured any photos, send them along detailed captions (ideally with permission for us to use them in reports and publications). Photographic evidence can be accompany the text very important in confrming the identity of some species. Just remember that approaching, feeding, or of this popular book. disturbing wildlife is strictly prohibited—so please keep your distance. Thanks for your participation! 48 pages, $11.95. Kari Bertram of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, spotted this red fox in Mazama Village. Crater Lake: Most of Crater Lake’s red foxes have fur Buy Crater Lake License Plates Gem of the Cascades that ranges in color from silver to black. A comprehensive guide If you live in , consider choosing Crater Lake license plates for your vehicle. For a one-time to the park’s geologic charge of $30, you can outft your car with these beautiful plates while supporting park projects. You can story, written by a former purchase them at any time, not just when buying a new vehicle or renewing your registration. Visit any park ranger. 168 pages, DMV ofce or www.oregon.gov/odot/dmv for details. Proceeds go into an endowment that funds the $15.95. operation of the park’s Science and Learning Center—two historic structures near Park Headquarters (the original Superintendent’s Residence and Chief Naturalist’s Residence), which now provide living Road Guide to Crater Lake National Park and working space for visiting scientists, teachers, and artists. The Science and Learning Center draws Consult this guide as researchers and educators to Crater Lake from around the world, encouraging them to use the park as you circle the lake for an outdoor laboratory and classroom. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/rlc/craterlake. a deeper understanding of the park’s features. “Classroom at 48 pages, $7.95. Crater Lake” Contribute to the Crater Lake Trust The Crater Lake National Park Trust is a nonproft organization that raises private funds to support park Trails of Crater Lake projects and connect the park with surrounding communities. Each year, for example, it helps fund feld & Oregon Caves A detailed guide to 24 trips to the park for more than 5,000 grade-school students. In a program called “Classroom at Crater hikes. 112 pages, $14.95. Lake,” kids engage in hands-on science and learn about wildlife, old-growth forests, and winter ecology. Learn more at www.craterlaketrust.org. Share your love of the park by making a tax-deductible gift. Crater Lake Topo Map Recommended for trips into the park’s Share Your Comments backcountry. Waterproof Whether you have a compliment, concern, or suggestion, we’d like to hear from you! This is your park, and tearproof. 1:55,000 and we value your input on how best to manage it. To provide feedback, complete a comment form at scale. $14.95. the visitor center or send an email (or letter) to the park’s Superintendent (see addresses on page 2). Plants & Animals of Crater Lake Nat’l Park This folding, waterproof guide will help you identify the park’s most visible Keeping the Park species. 11 pages, $6.95.

Open is “Snow” Volcanoes Folding, waterproof guide Easy Task to volcanoes, lava rocks, and plate tectonics. 11 pages, $7.95. (continued from page 1) With it, you could create a ski trail 3 feet Star & Planet Guide (91 cm) wide, 6 inches (15 cm) deep, and Rotating “planisphere” long enough to circle the Earth at the for locating stars, planets, equator! and constellations in the night sky. $7.99 small, The most challenging part of the job is $11.99 large. “Spring Opening,” when the equipment 101 Wildfowers of operators turn their attention to opening Fog flls the caldera Crater Lake Nat’l Park once every few years. up the 30-mile (48-km) Rim Drive and Detailed descriptions and 9-mile (14-km) North Entrance Road for vivid photos of the park’s the summer. They begin on the West Rim, most common fowers. departing Rim Village around the 3rd 74 pages, $14.95. week in April. On average, the snow they encounter is 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters) Climate Chart Trees To Know deep. In the vicinity of Watchman Peak, in Oregon Tree identifcation is easy they meet drifts 45 to 50 feet (15 meters) Crater Lake National Park is one of the thick. and enjoyable with this snowiest inhabited places in America. Storms Average Annual Snowfall at photo-packed, fact-flled from the Pacifc Ocean dump an average of 43 Park Headquarters, by Decade: guide. 153 pages, $18.00. The crews head slowly north, averaging feet (13 meters) of snow at Park Headquarters. .25 miles (.4 km) of road cleared per day. That’s equivalent to 1.4 inches (3.6 cm) of 1930s – 614 inches (1,560 cm) Crater Lake: In a light snow year, they’ll reach the park’s snow every day for an entire year! The park’s Into the Deep DVD North Entrance by mid-May. After a severe 1940s – 623 inches (1,582 cm) Own the flm shown at tremendous snowfall is a result of its position 1950s – 572 inches (1,453 cm) winter, it will take until mid-June. The East at the crest of the Cascade Mountains. the visitor center. Discover Rim Drive is their fnal leg. “If we can get 1960s – 507 inches (1,288 cm) the park’s signifcance and explore the lake’s violent all the way around the lake by the 4th of Since 1931, however, when rangers began 1970s – 495 inches (1,257 cm) past. 22 minutes, $14.99. July,” says one operator, “we’re happy.” keeping track, snowfall has been declining. 1980s – 475 inches (1,207 cm) The total amount of precipitation falling in 1990s – 493 inches (1,252 cm) For your safety, when you encounter a Guide to the the park hasn’t changed much, but warmer 2000s – 455 inches (1,156 cm) National Parks snow plow in the park, please give it a temperatures have been causing a larger 2010s – 410 inches (1,039 cm) of the United States wide berth. Passing a plow on the park’s proportion of it to fall as rain. This best-selling book narrow roads can be dangerous. Wait until from National Geographic an intersection or until the plow comes features 380 stunning FAHRENHEIT Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec to a stop and the operator waves you by. photos and 80 color Until then, assume that the operator can’t Average Daily High (ºF) 34 35 37 42 50 58 69 69 63 52 40 34 maps. 480 pages, $28.00. see you; visibility from inside the plows Average Daily Low (ºF) 18 18 19 23 28 34 41 41 37 31 23 19 can be poor. Also, skiers and pedestrians Average Snowfall (inches) 100 81 83 45 19 4 0.2 0.1 3 21 61 93 should be careful to keep well away from Avg. Snow Depth (inches) 79 101 115 111 76 24 1 0 0 2 16 47 the dangerous cascade of snow thrown by the rotary plows. CELSIUS Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Average Daily High (ºC) 1 2 3 6 10 15 21 21 17 11 4 1 Thanks to the hard work, long hours, and Average Daily Low (ºC) -8 -8 -7 -5 -2 1 5 5 3 -1 -5 -7 dedication of the park’s heavy equipment operators and mechanics, we can access Average Snowfall (cm) 254 206 211 115 49 9 0.5 0.3 7 53 155 237 and enjoy Crater Lake National Park every Avg. Snow Depth (cm) 201 256 292 281 193 60 3 0 1 6 42 120 month of the year. Data is from Park Headquarters, 1931-2018