Getting to Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park sits in OR, United States, with Klamath Falls the nearest town of any size — about 52 mi (83.7 km) out, or roughly 1 hr 41 min of driving.
Drive times from Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park sits close enough to Redwood National Park and Lassen Volcanic National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Redwood National Park | 149 mi (240 km) | 3 hr 59 min |
| Lassen Volcanic National Park | 171 mi (276 km) | 4 hr 30 min |
Long trails through this park
Pacific Crest Trail crosses Crater Lake National Park. The published corridor is CA–WA.
- Pacific Crest Trail — official trail site.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Klamath Falls | 52 mi (83.7 km) | 1 hr 41 min |
| Altamont | 53.9 mi (86.8 km) | 1 hr 44 min |
| Medford | 57.9 mi (93.2 km) | 1 hr 49 min |
| Oakridge | 58.6 mi (94.3 km) | 1 hr 50 min |
| La Pine | 58.7 mi (94.5 km) | 1 hr 50 min |
| Canyonville | 59.8 mi (96.2 km) | 1 hr 52 min |
| Tri-City | 61.3 mi (98.7 km) | 1 hr 54 min |
| Roseburg | 65.5 mi (105 km) | 2 hr |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Crater Lake National Park?
Klamath Falls, about 52 mi (83.7 km) away — roughly 1 hr 41 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Crater Lake National Park?
The practical bases are Klamath Falls, Altamont, and Medford — all within a reasonable drive of the park.