Exploring the National Parks

113: Exploring Crater Lake National Park: Best Tips + Activities


Listen Later

Ever looked into the heart of a volcano? In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we are going on a journey to Crater Lake National Park, a place where the deepest blue water meets some dramatic volcanic landscapes. 

We are so excited to explore this park because it has magic, whimsy, and even some romantic elements! Join us as we dive into the details, from navigating seasonal closures to finding the perfect romantic viewpoint.

Tune in to hear:

  • Our insider tips for navigating the park's tricky seasonality, including when to hit the rim drives and avoid major closures
  • What you’ll want to know about Crater Lake Lodge and your base camp for exploring this park
  • Why the hemlock trees at Crater Lake are Ash's absolute favorite, and where to find some gorgeous wildflowers
  • Closures to be aware of in 2025 and 2026
  • The scoop on the best viewpoints, including the Watchman Overlook and the challenging but rewarding Cleetwood Cove Trail
  • Why Phantom Ship is Ash’s favorite part of the park and where to find it
  • The best family-friendly trail where you can spot a stunning waterfall
  • We hope you enjoyed exploring Crater Lake with us!  This park will absolutely take your breath away. If you're planning a trip, make sure to head over to DirtInMyShoes.com and check out our Crater Lake page to stay up to date on everything going on in this park.

    Don’t forget your task for today! There are three main options for hikes in this park, and we want to know  which one you are most excited about. Do you want to go on the Castlecrest Trail and see 200 different types of wildflowers in one spot? Do you want to switch back down the cliffs to the lakeshore and actually be able to touch the water and go on a boat tour? Or  do you want to hike to the top of a peak? Head over to our Facebook or Instagram page and let us know!

    For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources/deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes.

    ...more
    View all episodesView all episodes
    Download on the App Store

    Exploring the National ParksBy Dirt In My Shoes

    • 4.8
    • 4.8
    • 4.8
    • 4.8
    • 4.8

    4.8

    467 ratings


    More shows like Exploring the National Parks

    View all
    Travel with Amateur Traveler Podcast by Chris Christensen

    Travel with Amateur Traveler Podcast

    1,058 Listeners

    Zero To Travel Podcast by Jason Moore

    Zero To Travel Podcast

    823 Listeners

    The RV Atlas Podcast by RVFTA Podcast Network

    The RV Atlas Podcast

    577 Listeners

    RV Lifestyle RV Podcast by Mike Wendland

    RV Lifestyle RV Podcast

    633 Listeners

    RV Miles Podcast by RV Miles Network

    RV Miles Podcast

    1,332 Listeners

    Backpacker Radio by The Trek

    Backpacker Radio

    1,632 Listeners

    Parkography by RV Miles Network

    Parkography

    893 Listeners

    Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast by A Travel Podcast

    Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast

    334 Listeners

    National Parks Traveler Podcast by Kurt Repanshek

    National Parks Traveler Podcast

    114 Listeners

    The Wild with Chris Morgan by KUOW News and Information

    The Wild with Chris Morgan

    3,259 Listeners

    Travel Squad Podcast by Travel Squad Podcast

    Travel Squad Podcast

    216 Listeners

    The Backpacking Podcast presented by Outdoor Vitals by John Kelley, Jeremiah Stringer

    The Backpacking Podcast presented by Outdoor Vitals

    220 Listeners

    Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks Podcast by Matt and Karen Smith

    Dear Bob and Sue: A National Parks Podcast

    1,239 Listeners

    National Park After Dark by Audioboom Studios

    National Park After Dark

    5,216 Listeners

    The Grand Canyon Hiker Dude Show by hiKin

    The Grand Canyon Hiker Dude Show

    126 Listeners