About

Cleetwood Cove Trail is the only place in the park to safely and legally access the waters of Crater Lake. Getting to the lake’s rocky shoreline requires a mile hike down--and a mile hike back up--with a 700-foot elevation and steep switchbacks.

Once you get to the lake, you can take a guided boat tour. Advance reservations can be made online. Some tickets are available for same-day bookings and can be purchased up to 2 hours before departure at the Mazama Village Cabin/Campground Registration Desk, Crater Lake Lodge Front Desk and at the Cleetwood Cove Kiosk.

You can also fish for rainbow trout or kokanee salmon. No fishing license is required, but only artificial lures may be used. And, if you're feeling brave, you can even take a dip in the icy water!

Check the visitor guide for swimming rules and fishing regulations. If you need to change clothes, there are restrooms in the parking area just across the road from the trailhead.

If you aren’t interested in a strenuous hike down into the caldera today, you can still enjoy the beautiful view from the Cleetwood Cove overlook.