Yellowstone National Park 20

Crater Lake Oregon to Yellowstone National Park: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

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Embarking on a journey from Crater Lake Oregon to Yellowstone National Park offers an unforgettable adventure through diverse landscapes and natural wonders. This epic road trip spans approximately 869 miles, taking around 15 hours and 40 minutes of driving time. Travelers can explore stunning geological formations, pristine lakes, and unique wildlife habitats along the way. The route offers various scenic detours and points of interest, making it an ideal expedition for nature enthusiasts and road trip aficionados alike.

What is the Best Route from Crater Lake to Yellowstone?

crater lake oregon to yellowstone national park
Image ‘File:Yellowstone National Park (WY, USA), Red Spouter — 2022 — 2465.jpg’ by Dietmar Rabich

The journey from Crater Lake to Yellowstone offers several route options, each with its own unique attractions:

  1. US-26/US-20 Route:
  2. Distance: Approximately 869 miles
  3. Estimated Time: 15 hours 40 minutes
  4. Key Stops: Bend, Oregon; Boise, Idaho; Twin Falls, Idaho

  5. Highlights: Scenic drive through Oregon’s high desert and Idaho’s Snake River Plain

  6. I-84 Route:

  7. Distance: Slightly longer, around 900 miles
  8. Estimated Time: 16-17 hours
  9. Key Stops: Portland, Oregon; Boise, Idaho; Idaho Falls, Idaho

  10. Highlights: Columbia River Gorge, urban experiences in Portland and Boise

  11. Scenic Northern Route:

  12. Distance: Approximately 950 miles
  13. Estimated Time: 18-19 hours
  14. Key Stops: Spokane, Washington; Missoula, Montana; West Yellowstone, Montana
  15. Highlights: Northern Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park (slight detour)

What Are the Must-See Attractions at Crater Lake?

crater lake oregon to yellowstone national park
Image ‘File:American bison in Yellowstone National Park.jpg’ by Frank Schulenburg

Before embarking on your journey to Yellowstone, explore the wonders of Crater Lake:

  1. Rim Drive:
  2. 33-mile scenic route around the lake
  3. Numerous viewpoints and photo opportunities

  4. Accessible typically from July to October

  5. Wizard Island:

  6. Boat tours available (weather permitting)
  7. Hiking and exploration on the island

  8. Unique perspective of the lake from its center

  9. Cleetwood Cove Trail:

  10. Only trail leading to the lake shore
  11. 2.2 miles round trip, steep but rewarding

  12. Swimming allowed at the bottom (very cold water!)

  13. Crater Lake Lodge:

  14. Historic lodge with stunning lake views
  15. Dining and accommodation options
  16. Great spot for sunrise or sunset viewing

How to Plan Stops Along the Crater Lake to Yellowstone Route?

Planning strategic stops can enhance your road trip experience:

  1. Bend, Oregon:
  2. Distance from Crater Lake: 110 miles
  3. Attractions: High Desert Museum, Deschutes Brewery, Smith Rock State Park

  4. Ideal for: Outdoor activities, craft beer enthusiasts

  5. Boise, Idaho:

  6. Distance from Bend: 330 miles
  7. Attractions: Idaho State Capitol, Boise River Greenbelt, Old Idaho Penitentiary

  8. Ideal for: Urban exploration, historical sites

  9. Twin Falls, Idaho:

  10. Distance from Boise: 130 miles
  11. Attractions: Shoshone Falls, Perrine Bridge, Snake River Canyon

  12. Ideal for: Natural wonders, base jumping (with proper permits)

  13. Jackson, Wyoming:

  14. Distance from Twin Falls: 280 miles
  15. Attractions: Grand Teton National Park, National Elk Refuge, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
  16. Ideal for: Wildlife viewing, outdoor recreation

What Are the Top Geothermal Features in Yellowstone?

Yellowstone is renowned for its geothermal wonders:

  1. Old Faithful Geyser:
  2. Erupts every 35-120 minutes
  3. Height: 106-184 feet

  4. Duration: 1.5 to 5 minutes

  5. Grand Prismatic Spring:

  6. Largest hot spring in the United States
  7. Vibrant colors due to thermophilic bacteria

  8. Best viewed from the overlook on the Fairy Falls Trail

  9. Mammoth Hot Springs:

  10. Travertine terraces formed by mineral deposits
  11. Constantly changing formations

  12. Boardwalks for easy exploration

  13. Norris Geyser Basin:

  14. Hottest and most changeable thermal area in Yellowstone
  15. Features Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser

What Accommodation Options Are Available Near Crater Lake and Yellowstone?

Crater Lake Accommodations:

  1. Crater Lake Lodge:
  2. Location: Rim Village
  3. Price Range: $200-$400 per night

  4. Amenities: Restaurant, gift shop, Wi-Fi

  5. Mazama Village:

  6. Location: 7 miles from Rim Village
  7. Price Range: $150-$300 per night
  8. Amenities: Cabins, campgrounds, general store

Yellowstone Accommodations:

  1. Old Faithful Inn:
  2. Location: Old Faithful Area
  3. Price Range: $200-$500 per night

  4. Amenities: Historic lodge, dining options, proximity to geysers

  5. Canyon Lodge and Cabins:

  6. Location: Canyon Village
  7. Price Range: $150-$400 per night

  8. Amenities: Modern facilities, dining options, central location

  9. Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel:

  10. Location: Mammoth Hot Springs Area
  11. Price Range: $150-$300 per night
  12. Amenities: Historic hotel, dining options, proximity to terraces

What is the Best Time to Visit Crater Lake and Yellowstone?

Season Crater Lake Yellowstone
Summer (June-August) Peak season, all facilities open Busiest season, ideal weather
Fall (September-October) Less crowded, beautiful foliage Wildlife active, fewer crowds
Winter (November-March) Limited access, snow activities Winter activities, limited road access
Spring (April-May) Gradually opening facilities Wildlife emerging, some road closures

Both parks are most accessible during summer months, but each season offers unique experiences. Consider your preferences for activities, crowds, and weather when planning your trip.

How to Prepare for the Crater Lake to Yellowstone Road Trip?

  1. Vehicle Preparation:
  2. Service your vehicle before the trip
  3. Check tires, brakes, and fluids

  4. Consider a vehicle with good fuel efficiency

  5. Packing Essentials:

  6. Maps and GPS device
  7. First aid kit
  8. Emergency car kit
  9. Weather-appropriate clothing

  10. Hiking gear and comfortable shoes

  11. Reservations:

  12. Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season

  13. Make any necessary tour reservations (e.g., boat tours at Crater Lake)

  14. Park Passes:

  15. Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass for access to both parks

  16. Check individual park entrance fees if not using a pass

  17. Itinerary Planning:

  18. Allow flexibility in your schedule for unexpected stops or delays
  19. Plan for rest stops and fuel stations along the route
  20. Research dining options or pack food for less populated areas

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable journey from Crater Lake Oregon to Yellowstone National Park. Remember to respect wildlife, follow park rules, and leave no trace to preserve these natural wonders for future generations.

References:
1. Wanderlog – 36 Best Stops Between Crater Lake National Park and Yellowstone National Park
2. Road Trip Locals – 12-Day Pacific Northwest Road Trip
3. TripAdvisor – Road Trip from Crater Lake to Yellowstone

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