Take a boat tour of the lake National Park

Take a boat tour of the lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is one of the most spectacular natural destinations in the United States, offering stunning views of the deep blue waters of Crater Lake and the surrounding mountains. While the Rim Drive offers a scenic drive around the lake, taking a boat tour of the lake is an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to get up close and personal with the lake’s natural beauty. In this article, we will guide you on what to do when taking a boat tour of the lake in Crater Lake National Park.

Choose your tour

The first step in taking a boat tour of the lake is to choose your tour. There are two types of boat tours available in the park: a standard boat tour and a trolley tour/boat combo. The standard boat tour lasts about two hours and takes visitors to the iconic Wizard Island, while the trolley tour/boat combo includes a guided trolley tour of the park before embarking on the boat tour.

Book in advance

It’s important to book your boat tour in advance, especially during peak season. The boat tours are very popular and often sell out quickly, so it’s best to book early to avoid disappointment. Visitors can book their tour online or by calling the park’s visitor center.

Arrive early

On the day of your boat tour, it’s important to arrive early to allow time for parking and check-in. The boat tours depart from Cleetwood Cove, which is about a 20-minute drive from Rim Village. Visitors should plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before their scheduled departure time.

Hike down to the lake

To reach the boat dock at Cleetwood Cove, visitors must hike down a steep trail that descends about 700 feet. The hike can be challenging, especially on the way back up, so visitors should be prepared with sturdy hiking shoes and plenty of water.

Enjoy the tour

Once on board the boat, visitors can sit back and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The boat tour includes a guided tour of the lake, highlighting its unique geology and natural history. Visitors can also disembark at Wizard Island to explore on foot and take in even more breathtaking views of the lake.

Dress appropriately

It’s important to dress appropriately for the boat tour, as the weather can be unpredictable. Visitors should bring warm layers, as it can be chilly on the lake even in the summer months. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended, as the sun can be intense on the water.

In conclusion, taking a boat tour of the lake in Crater Lake National Park is an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to get up close and personal with the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains. Visitors should choose their tour, book in advance, arrive early, and be prepared for the hike down to the lake. Once on board, visitors can sit back and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and learn more about its unique geology and natural history. Dressing appropriately and bringing plenty of water and snacks is also important. So, don’t miss out on the chance to take a boat tour of the lake in Crater Lake National Park and experience its natural beauty in a whole new way.