Crater Lake National Park is a must-visit destination in Oregon, and if you’re looking for the best way to get there, look no further than the Portland to Crater Lake National Park drive. In this ultimate road trip guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about this route, including distance, drive hours, stops, and the best driving route.
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Portland to Crater Lake National Park Drive
Driving from Portland to Crater Lake National Park is approximately 269.1 miles (433 km), which takes around 4 hours and 40 minutes. The fastest route from Portland to Crater Lake National Park is to take I-5 S to OR-58, which will drive past places like Diamond Lake Junction.
How far is Portland from Crater Lake National Park?
The distance from Portland to Crater Lake National Park is approximately 269.1 miles (433 km), and the driving time is around 4 hours and 40 minutes.. Keep in mind that the actual driving time may vary depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the route you take.
How far is Portland to Crater Lake National Park by plane?
The flight distance from Portland to Crater Lake National Park is approximately 187 miles (300.9 km). The flight time from Portland to Crater Lake National Park is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.
However, it’s important to note that there are no commercial airports in Crater Lake National Park, so you’ll need to fly to a nearby airport and then drive to the park.
The closest airport to Crater Lake National Park is the Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport, which is around 90 miles away. From there, you can rent a car and drive to the park.
What is the time difference between Portland and Crater Lake National Park?
Portland and Crater Lake National Park are both located in the Pacific Time Zone, which is the same time zone as several other cities in the western United States, including San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Seattle. This means that visitors traveling from these cities to Crater Lake National Park don’t have to worry about adjusting their watches or dealing with jet lag.
However, it’s still important to keep in mind that there may be variations in the amount of daylight and weather conditions between these locations, so visitors should be prepared for the climate and environment they will encounter at the park. Additionally, visitors should always check the park’s operating hours and schedule before their visit, as these may vary depending on the season and other factors.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Portland to Crater Lake National Park
The cheapest way to get from Portland to Crater Lake National Park is to drive. You can rent a car from Portland and drive to the park, which will cost you around $35 per day, plus gas. If you’re traveling with a group of people, it may be cheaper to rent a car and split the cost rather than paying for multiple flights.
Portland to Crater Lake National Park Drive – Rent A Car In Portland
Here are some rental car companies to rent a car from in Portland:
- Alamo: starts at $37 per day
- Avis: starts at $33 per day
- Budget: starts at $33 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $43 per day
- Hertz: starts at $30 per day
Gas prices will vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $55 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.67 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Portland to Crater Lake National Park – Driving Stops Along The Way
If you’re looking to make some stops along the way, here are some suggestions:
Umpqua Hot Springs
Umpqua Hot Springs is a natural hot spring located in the Umpqua National Forest in Oregon, USA. It is a popular destination for travelers who are exploring the area or on their way to Crater Lake National Park. The hot springs are surrounded by lush forests and offer stunning views of the Cascade Mountains. The water in the hot springs is heated by geothermal activity, and its temperature ranges from 100 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Visitors can relax and soak in the mineral-rich water, which is believed to have healing properties. The hot springs are accessible by a short hike, which adds to the sense of adventure and seclusion. However, visitors are advised to use caution as the rocks around the hot springs can be slippery and the water can be very hot in some areas.
Diamond Lake
Diamond Lake is a stunning alpine lake situated in the Umpqua National Forest, just north of Crater Lake National Park. The lake spans over 3,000 acres and reaches a maximum depth of 98 feet. It is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and swimming during the summer months, and it transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months, where visitors can enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The lake is also surrounded by numerous hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains. There are several campgrounds located near the lake, making it an ideal spot for an overnight stay.
Rogue River Gorge
Rogue River Gorge is a stunning natural wonder located in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest in southern Oregon. The gorge is formed by the Rogue River as it flows through a narrow and deep channel, creating a series of rapids and waterfalls. Visitors can view the gorge from several viewpoints along the trail, which winds through a dense forest of old-growth trees. The surrounding area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, cougars, and bald eagles. The Rogue River Gorge is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and nature photography, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty and serenity of Oregon’s wilderness.
Wildlife Safari
Wildlife Safari is a drive-through animal park located in Winston, Oregon, about 90 minutes south of Eugene. The park is home to over 500 animals from Africa, Asia, and the Americas, including lions, tigers, giraffes, zebras, bears, and many more. Visitors can take a guided tour through the park in their own vehicles or on a park-provided bus. The park also offers animal encounters and educational programs for visitors of all ages. Wildlife Safari is a popular attraction for families and animal lovers visiting Southern Oregon.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the Portland to Crater Lake National Park drive is a beautiful and scenic route that is perfect for a road trip. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation, this drive offers stunning views and a chance to experience some of the best that Oregon has to offer. While driving is the most affordable way to get to Crater Lake, there are also options for flying into nearby airports and renting a car. With plenty of stops and sights to see along the way, this road trip is sure to be a memorable adventure for all.