The deepest lake in the United States and by some measures the 3rd deepest in the world, Crater Lake is definitely worth a visit. But how is this relatively small National Park doing during our current COVID-19 dilemma? We visited on a 80 degree summer Friday and here is what we found.

Located in south central Oregon, the north entrance to the park is about 90 minutes from the Ski and Brew Review offices. Rolling up to the unattended ranger station 9am there were no other cars in site. Thankfully a stack of park maps was available but in-order to purchase a day pass you had to download a mobile app, a problem with zero phone service through the whole park. That’s why you get the annual pass folks.

Taking a clockwise loop the deep blues of the lake are impressive at each turnoff with Wizard Island appearing different from every angle. We hit more traffic as we merged with the road to the more popular southern entrance and arrived at the park headquarters at Rim Village. Despite the current pandemic mask usage was about 50%, but better on trails where fit people tend not be so stupid.

Hiking Garfield Peak is a great way to ditch the crowds and get a better view of the lake from high on the ridge. After the steep hike enjoy a beer on the back porch of historic Crater Lake Lodge. The bar is closed to non-guests during COVID but the view from the public area is just as good.

Leaving north the Watchman Viewpoint turnoff was already full around noon and leaving the north entrance at 1pm there was a line of cars at least 50 deep. Leave early, avoid Rim Village, and for God’s sake bring your trash out with you.