Native Americans witnessed its formation 7,700 years ago, when a violent eruption triggered the collapse of a tall peak. It is the Cleetwood Cove Trail, which usually opens mid to late June. 10.

On this two-hour cruise, you’ll circle the perimeter of the lake, taking in up-close views of Wizard Island, Phantom Ship, and other natural formations.

We even got to fill our water bottles with the cool, pristinely clean water- which was delicious! There are several water bodies in Crater Lake National Park, however, the streams and ponds are often very inaccessible and managed as wilderness areas. A boat tour on Crater Lake.

In the summer, when boat tours are running, you can …

Boat Tour Information Tickets can be purchased in advance online and some tickets are available for same-day bookings.

The second option is a two-hour Volcano Boat Cruises around Crater Lake, some with a stop on Wizard Island. Short answer, yes, but there is actually only one place where it is safe and legal to get down to the lake shore and swim at Crater Lake National Park. Unfortunately during my visit there was too much wind and the boat tours were cancelled so I cannot tell you first hand what it was like. The boat tour itself was cool, a scientists dream! Unfortunately during my visit there was too much wind and the boat tours were cancelled so I cannot tell you first hand what it was like. Scientists marvel at its purity: fed by rain and snow, it’s the deepest lake in the USA and one of the most pristine on earth. Check out all the options on the Crater Lake Lodges page here – you can do anything from a 2 hour boat tour around the lake to a full 6 hours on Wizard Island!

Can you swim in Crater Lake? Same-day ticket sales can be purchased up to two hours before departure at the Mazama Village Cabin/Campground Registration Desk, Crater Lake Lodge Front Desk and at the Cleetwood Cove Kiosk.

Depending on the ranger, you will hear about the history, the geology and the mythology behind Crater Lake. We booked a 2-hour boat tour around Crater Lake and we’re surprised to learn we could stay to swim in the lake! Which is why the boat tour onto Crater Lake is so important. Go on an adventure from Portland to Crater Lake National Park during this 3-day tour that includes two night of accommodations and all transport. Or, you can hike out to Fumarole Bay and catch a later boat to complete the tour around the inner caldera. Please Note: Due to COVID-19 protocols and the inability to socially distance, the National Park Service and Crater Lake Hospitality have cancelled boat tours for the 2020 season.. Take the Shuttle to Wizard Island.