Geology Talks

An interpretative program of yesteryear

Step back in time to Mt. Mazama's fiery past and explore with a park ranger the theories relating to the formation of Crater Lake. How did Crater Lake come to rest inside the volcano? What can we expect from our volcano in the future? Find out during a 15 minute geology talk, presented on the hour from 10 am to 5 pm. Talks are held daily at the Sinnott Memorial Overlook (located behind the Rim Village Visitor Center). Talks will be held from June 29 to Labor Day.

Guided Hikes

A Ranger-led hike

Ranger-led hikes are presented daily from June 29 to Labor Day.
*Garfield Peak hike - Enjoy spectacular views and wildflowers as we travel halfway up Garfield Peak on a 45 minute hike. Meet the park ranger at the flag pole near Rim Village Visitor Center at 2 pm.
*Crater Lake Lodge and Rim Village historical walk - Meet the park ranger at the flag pole near Rim Village Visitor Center at 1 pm for a 30 minute walking tour.

Evening Programs
Join a park ranger for an in-depth discussion of various topics relating to the natural and cultural history of Crater Lake National Park. Specific topics for these 45 minute programs are posted at visitor centers and the campground. Programs are held nightly at the Mazama Campground Ampitheatre. Programs will be presented at 9 pm from June 29 to July 31 and at 8:30 pm from August 1 to Labor Day.

Jr. Ranger Progams
Visitors between the ages of 6 and 12 are encouraged to participate in the park's Jr. Ranger program. Join a park ranger at the Mazama Campground Ampitheatre at 5 pm for this 45 minute program to learn more about Crater Lake National Park. Programs are held daily from June 23 to August 25.

Winter Snowshoe Ecology Walks
Discover what it takes to survive in an area that receives over 500 inches of snow and where winter lasts for nine months of the year. Every weekend throughout the winter season park rangers and volunteers will be presenting ecology walks on snowshoes. Various stops are made along the tour route where the ranger will explain how various park animals, trees, and humans adapt to survive in this magnificient winter.
Regularly scheduled walks for the general public are offered at 1 pm on weekends from Thanksgiving to the end of March. Meet the park ranger at the Rim Village Information Desk inside the cafeteria. Walks last approximately 1.5 hours and snowshoes are provided free of charge. Snowshoeing requires little skill, but it is advised that participants be in good physical condition. There is a group limit of 20, and during holidays and school vacations space is limited. Reservations are not taken. Due to the size of the snowshoes, children must be at least nine years old to participate.
School groups and other organizations may make reservations for walks at other times by calling (541) 594-2211 extension 401.

back to top of page