Here’s one way to enter the lake © flickr/Powderruns
Biking: Cyclists are allowed on all paved roads and on unpaved Grayback Drive. The 33-mile Rim Drive is the most popular bicycling destination. Bikers must be acutely aware of motorists, because the road twists, turns, climbs, and descends its way around the rim of Crater Lake. Strong winds are common, which make for not-so enjoyable biking. To avoid traffic and winds try pedalling early in the morning.
Fishing: Fish didn’t inhabit the lake until 1888 when William Gladstone Steel stocked it with 6 species. Today, only rainbow trout and kokanee salmon thrive in the deep blue waters. Fishing licenses are not required and there are no catch limits. Anglers must use artificial lures and flies only. Cleetwood Cove Trail is the only route to the lake’s shoreline. Fishermen are also welcome to cast their lines from Wizard Island.
Swimming in the lake is not for everyone, but it’s allowed at Cleetwood Cove and Wizard Island. It’s fun to say you swam here, but to stay in the 55°F water for an extended amount of time is not the most enjoyable way to spend your trip at Crater Lake.
Stargazing is a popular night-time activity and experienced SCUBA divers explore the lake’s depths.
Winter Activities: Winter can be a remarkable time to visit Crater Lake, but Rim Village is the only car-accessible location (weather permitting) where the lake is visible. Park Rangers offer free snowshoe walks every Saturday and Sunday at 1pm from late November through the end of April. The tour lasts two hours and snowshoes are provided. No experience is necessary. Call (541) 594-3100 to make reservations. Cross-country skiing is gaining popularity as well. Many visitors set out to complete the 31-mile trek around the rim. Marked but ungroomed trails are available at Mazama and Rim Village for skiers of all ability levels. North Entrance Road is open and groomed for snowmobiles up to the rim of Crater Lake. Snowmobiles are not allowed on Rim Drive. Backcountry camping is allowed.