What to do and see in Crater Lake National Park, Crater Lake National Park: The Best Free Things to do

May 1, 2022 Brandee Mangan

Created by a volcanic eruption approximately 7,700 years ago, Crater Lake National Park is one of the largest lakes in the world.

1. Annie Creek Canyon

Crater Lake National Park, OR
Excellent
85%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 13 reviews

Annie Creek Canyon

A challenging hiking trail where wildlife and wildflowers can be seen.

Reviewed By RhondaA646 - South Portland, United States

I’m not sure how long the wildflowers are found on this trail but in July it is spectacular. This trail seems ho hum at first glance due to the upper rim walk is side by side the campground. Do the upper rim section first so you get to enjoy the sensational creek with beautiful wildflowers for the 2nd half. We almost skipped this trail. Instead it ended being our favorite of many truly wonderful trails (Cleetwood Cove, Sun Notch, Castle Creek Wildflower Garden, Plaikni Falls and Pinnacles). I’m older so we didn’t do the strenuous hikes except for Cleetwood. Of the trails we walked this was the 2nd toughest but definitely moderate. Bring your bug spray! We saw perhaps 7 people in total during our hike. I think many skip this one. It starts behind the Manzama Campground. There are toilets next to the village shops and the only gas station in the park. Great last hike out of Crater for yet another reason. Enjoy!

2. Sun Notch Trail

Crater Lake National Park, OR 97604
Excellent
81%
Good
19%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 27 reviews

Sun Notch Trail

Reviewed By WmnAud - Thermopolis, United States

Finding a great spot to rest, take pics and meet others, this is it! Made this stop on shuttle and also in our own car tour - we always wanted to see this little spot and the Phantom ship component of the caldera is very interesting as well.

3. Castle Crest Wildflower Trail

Crater Lake National Park, OR
Excellent
56%
Good
32%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
0%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 25 reviews

Castle Crest Wildflower Trail

An easy one-mile walking trail with an array of wildflowers to view.

Reviewed By iamhere555

Great stop on the east rim of crater lake. We were there in July and the wildflowers were in full bloom. So many varieties and colors along a short .5 mile loop trail along a stream. Portions of the trail have water running over them; so, be careful. We saw a couple deer and a spotted fawn grazing and they did not seem too concerned about people. There are mosquitoes on the trail; so, be prepared. Great spot for photography. Worth the stop.

4. Toketee Falls

Highway 138, Crater Lake National Park, OR http://www.waterfallsnorthwest.com/nws/falls.php?num=4343
Excellent
64%
Good
34%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 148 reviews

Toketee Falls

Reviewed By L2424QQlindaw - Phoenix, United States

Nice hike in beautiful surroundings. I used my walking stick- made it easier for me to hike. Several areas along the trail to sit & relax. The falls were beautiful. Worth the time to view such natural scenery!

5. Whitehorse Falls

4 1/2 Miles East of Tokatee Lake, Crater Lake National Park, OR http://www.waterfallsnorthwest.com/nws/falls.php?num=4334
Excellent
48%
Good
52%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 27 reviews

Whitehorse Falls

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