About This Route
Crater Lake National Park's rim trails intersect the PCT near the Oregon-California border, with access from Mazama Village or the PCT's Cloud Cap section. Swim in the deepest U.S. lake (1,943 feet) from Wizard Island or Cleetwood Cove, a short detour off PCT mile 1,830. Summer crowds flock here for the electric-blue waters, but steep 1-mile descent to the shore adds challenge. NPS reports over 20 drownings historically due to deceptive calm and depth.
Safety Considerations
Surface temps reach 60 degrees Fahrenheit in August, but drop sharply with depth, causing exhaustion. Steep entry/exit trails risk slips; use handrails. Wind-driven waves build quickly on this 20-mile-wide caldera; check park webcams. No lifeguards; buddy system mandatory. Altitude at 7,000 feet prompts hydration vigilance per REI guidelines. Lightning storms frequent; exit water by noon.
Essential Gear
Type III PFD from O'Neill for visibility. Rash guards and aqua socks from Speedo. Tow float for open-water stamina. UV-protective hat and reef-safe sunscreen. Park shuttle ticket for return ascent.
Emergency Tips
Wave distress: wave arms overhead, blow whistle. Cramp: stretch gently while floating. Call 911 via cell (spotty) or park dispatch at 541-594-3000; rangers patrol Cleetwood. Ascend slowly post-swim to avoid heat illness.
Swim Crater Lake safely with these PCT-focused strategies.