Crater Lake National Park’s north entrance has reopened after a month-long closure due to wildfire concerns. The entrance, which had been closed since mid-August, is now accessible to visitors and is expected to remain open until its regular seasonal closure on November 1.
According to an article published by The Bulletin, the Middle Fork Fire, which burned over 5,286 acres in the northwest corner of the park, caused the temporary closure.
The Middle Fork Fire closed several trails in Crater Lake National Park, including Bald Crater Loop Trail, Bert Creek Trail, and Boundary Springs Trail. Despite the fire’s impact, the Pacific Crest Trail, which runs through the park, has stayed open.
“The Bald Crater Loop, Bert Creek, and Boundary Springs Trails are closed until further notice due to potentially hazardous conditions created by the Middle Fork Fire. The Pacific Crest Trail through the park is now completely open for hikers,” an NPS alert indicated.
Cooler temperatures in the region also contributed to the fire’s containment. Additionally, gas services within the park are unavailable for the remainder of the season due to repairs at Mazama Village’s gas pumps. Visitors planning to drive through the park should refuel before entering.
Crater Lake offers various outdoor activities. According to its website, Cleetwood Cove Trail provides the only legal access to the lake’s shore. Popular activities at the lake include fishing, swimming, and wading. Visitors are advised to follow safety guidelines and restrictions. Depending on snow conditions, the trail typically opens from mid-June to late October.
In addition to the outdoor activities, in-park accommodations are available at Crater Lake Lodge, The Cabins at Mazama Village, and Mazama Campground. These are frequently booked months in advance.
Camping within the park is restricted to designated areas. Overnight stays are allowed only for registered guests at Crater Lake Lodge, the Mazama Campground, and The Cabins at Mazama Village. Backpackers are also permitted to camp overnight, but only with a valid permit.
Farewell Bend Campground provides 61 tent and RV sites, most of which are reservable, and is open from mid-May to early October. Nearby, the Farewell Bend Sno-Park offers overnight parking and camping with basic amenities, including vault toilets, and operates free of charge during the warmer months.
Other camping options include Natural Bridge Campground, with 17 first-come, first-served sites, and Thousand Springs Sno-Park, which also offers free overnight camping from May through October. Both Sno-Parks require permits during the winter months.