Cleetwood Cove Trail – Crater Lake National Park

When the Mount Mazama volcano erupted and collapsed, a gigantic hole was created. Over thousands of years, the depression filled with rain and meltwater and formed the deep blue, impressive Crater Lake. In addition to its fascinating color, the lake has another feature: at 594 meters, it is the deepest lake in the USA and the second deepest in North America. You can hike down to the shore – and even swim – on the short but relatively steep Cleetwood Cove Trail!

Located directly on the ring road, you can park your car in a parking lot directly at the trailhead. From up here you already have a fantastic view of the crater lake. You descend a good 200 meters along a well-developed gravel path to the shimmering water. When you arrive directly at the lakeshore, you can see for yourself how clear the water is. Ready to jump into the cold water?

Don't be surprised if small light brown stones swim past you every now and then. The volcanic pumice stone is super light and floats on the surface of the water. If you don't feel like swimming, you can simply enjoy the view from the large boulders that surround the lake here. By the way, Cleetwood Cove is the only place where you can get to the water. The way back takes you along the same route. If you want to take a break along the way, there are occasionally wooden benches to take a breather.