As summer begins to fade, there’s still time to embark on another road trip before the fall arrives. The drive from Roseburg to Crater Lake National Park is an ideal late-summer day trip. Not only is the destination of Crater Lake breathtaking, but the scenic drive along Highway 138 is equally captivating.
Heading east along Highway 138, you’ll follow the North Umpqua River, affectionately known as the Highway of Waterfalls. This highway offers easy access to over a dozen waterfalls, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The most popular waterfall along the highway is Toketee Falls, which can be reached with a short and moderate hike. For those near Roseburg, Deadline Falls is a must-see, easily viewed from the highway. Watson Falls along the highway is 293-foot tall waterfall, making it the tallest waterfall in Southern Oregon. Further up the road, Whitehorse and Clearwater Falls are just a short walk from your car and are both wheelchair accessible. For more information about these waterfalls, visit https://www.experienceroseburg.com/outdoors/waterfalls/.
Beyond the waterfalls, the area offers a variety of other attractions. Hiking trails wind through the region, providing opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Camping is also an option, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness. The geology of the area is equally fascinating, with basalt rocks and the iconic Eagle Rock standing as testaments to the region’s geological history.
Before reaching Crater Lake, make sure to stop at the Steamboat Inn for lunch or brunch. This charming inn offers a delightful dining experience and is conveniently located on the way to Crater Lake. Close to the national park, Diamond Lake and Lemolo Lake provide fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities. Diamond Lake is also known for its lodge and campgrounds, making it a great place to stay if lodging accommodations are fully booked at Crater Lake.
Crater Lake’s North Entrance is typically open from early summer until November 1st or the first substantial snowfall. Upon arrival at Crater Lake, take advantage of all the viewpoints around the lake. The rim drive offers diverse vantage points to view the lake and other sights within the park. The pinnacles and pumice fields are geological highlights, showcasing the remnants of Mt. Mazama’s eruption 7,700 years ago.
As you head from the north entrance towards the lodge, you’ll encounter several viewpoints to admire the lake and Mount McLoughlin in the distance. The historic lodge offers rooms for rent and serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, cocktails, and small plates that can be enjoyed on the patio overlooking the lake between lunch and dinner service. Nearby, Garfield Peak provides a breathtaking view of the lake with a short hike. Camping is also an option at Crater Lake National Park. If you prefer a relaxed pace, consider booking a trolley tour around the rim of Crater Lake. For more information, visit this link: https://craterlaketrolley.net/
Things to keep in mind for travelers; The East Rim Drive from Reflection Point to Sun Notch is closed for major road construction project until Sept 30th. The roads around Crater Lake will be closed to motorized vehicles on September 6th and 13th, 2025 for Ride the Rim, for more information about the event https://ridetherimoregon.com/
For those feeling adventurous, hiking down to the lake on the Cleetwood Cove Trail is an option. However, note that the 2025 season is the last season when this trail is accessible, and it will be closed for renovations until 2029. The Cleetwood Cove Trail is also the same trail you take down to the marina, which offers shuttle service to Wizard Island and boat tours of the entire lake. For booking, follow this link: https://explorecraterlake.com/things-to-do/boat-tours/
