Crater Lake National Park guide · 2 min read
Rim Drive's 33-Mile Loop of Overlooks
Rim Drive runs 33 miles along the caldera and passes 30 historic overlooks. Each one was planned to frame a particular view, whether a stretch of the lake, a geologic formation, or a subalpine meadow.
Some have exhibits that explain the scene, while others let you take it in on your own. Pullouts and parking areas sit between them, so you can stop whenever something catches your attention. Many pullouts lack name signs, so the park map is the best guide to the main stops.
Four of the best-known stops are Discovery Point, Merriam Point, Phantom Ship Overlook, and Cloudcap Overlook. Merriam Point has plenty of parking and lies about a five-minute drive north of Watchman Overlook. Llao Rock rises to the north, a huge stone mass on the caldera rim, and Wizard Island sits to the south. Phantom Ship Overlook sits beside the spur road that leads to Pinnacles Overlook.
Sinnott Memorial Overlook gets more attention than any other viewpoint in the park. It was built to work as a museum along the trail, with a wide, open view of the lake and exhibits on Mount Mazama's geology and how the lake took shape. If you can, catch one of the daily ranger talks.
More people pedal the loop every year, but the ride is demanding. The route has steep grades at high altitude, narrow lanes without shoulders, fast downhill runs, rocks, potholes, and weather hazards. It suits only riders with experience sharing a road with cars moving in both directions. Riding the three miles between park headquarters and Rim Village is discouraged because sight lines are limited and the road is steep, twisting, and carries heavy traffic.
On average, the drive takes about two hours and includes eight or more stops. Add a hike or two and you should set aside about half a day.
