There's only one safe and legal way to get to the icy lake: Cleetwood Cove Trail, a 1.1-mile (one-way) trail that usually opens in June and drops nearly 700 feet to the lake shore.
At 1,943 feet, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the U.S., and one of its most stunning. There are no streams or rivers feeding it—the lake is the product of pure glacial runoff and precipitation.
Rim trail has stellar views and photo ops with far less crowds than pull offs. Get out and hike for a bit, you won't regret it. Also the PCT section in the park is breathtaking.
Pack a lunch; not only will you save A LOT of money over the lodge, but you will be guaranteed to have exactly what you want. Cram it in a backpack, take a hike and have a picnic with GORGEOUS views.
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