3 days, 2 lakes: Crater & Whiskeytown lakes
Experience the natural wonders of Southern Oregon and Northern California on this three-day summer road trip, traveling Crater Lake's deep waters to Whiskeytown National Recreation Area's forested trails and waterfalls. Enjoy scenic drives, Lava Beds National Monument, and a day on the water.
Day 1
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Exploring Crater Lake
Scenic drive
Begin your adventure at Crater Lake National Park, home to the deepest lake in the United States, formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano. Drive the Rim Drive (33 miles), stopping at panoramic viewpoints like Watchman Overlook and Cloudcap Overlook.
Elevated views
For an up-close perspective, hike the Garfield Peak Trail (3.6 miles round-trip) for one of the best high-elevation views of Crater Lake. If you prefer a shorter walk, the Sun Notch Trail (0.8 miles) offers excellent views of the famous Phantom Ship rock formation.
Sunset and stargazing
Crater Lake’s high elevation and remote location make it one of the best places in the country for stargazing. Stay overnight at Mazama Village Campground during the summer or in a nearby lodge.
Day 2
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Lava beds & waterfall wonders
Exploring volcanic caves
Travel south to Lava Beds National Monument, a fascinating volcanic landscape with hundreds of lava tube caves. Stop by the visitor center to pick up a cave map, then explore accessible caves like Mushpot Cave (0.5 miles), which has interpretive signs. Explore Golden Dome Cave (2.2 miles) for an adventurous crawl through glowing bacterial formations.
Rushing waters of McCloud Falls
Continue south, journeying to the McCloud River near Mount Shasta to hike the McCloud River Falls Trail (3.9 miles roundtrip), featuring three falls, each offering unique cascades and swimming spots. After your hike, unwind at Lake Siskiyou, a peaceful spot with crystal-clear waters and views of Mount Shasta towering in the background.
Day 3
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Waterfalls & Whiskeytown adventures
Hidden waterfalls of Whiskeytown
Begin your day at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, a hidden gem in Northern California. Hike to Whiskeytown Falls, a secluded 220-foot cascade, via the James K. Carr trail (3.4 miles round-trip). If you’re looking for a shorter trail, Crystal Creek Falls (0.4 miles ) offers a gentle walk to a scenic waterfall.
Kayaking & swimming in Whiskeytown Lake
Spend the afternoon at Whiskeytown Lake, where you can kayak, paddleboard, or swim in its clear blue waters. Rent a boat and paddle the waters or take a scenic drive along the lake’s edge, stopping at Brandy Creek Beach.
Flowers at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
A heron perches on the lake
A good boy gets petted at a Whiskeytown fall
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Optional add-on
Live life on two wheels.
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is a known biking destination. Bring your bike and helmet and check out the trails.
Visit smart
Plan ahead
Crater Lake and Lava Beds National Monument have limited services and cell phone reception in remote areas. Bring extra food and water and have a downloaded or physical map to navigate.
Stay informed
Check trail conditions, wildfire updates, and park alerts before visiting. Whiskeytown’s trails were affected by past fires and seasonal snow closes some roads.
Stay hydrated
High elevations at Crater Lake and Mount Shasta can lead to altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water and pace yourself on hikes. Summer temperatures at lower elevations can be hot, so bring sun protection.
Leave no trace
These landscapes are fragile and culturally important to many Indigenous peoples. Stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and respect wildlife. Lava caves contain sensitive bat populations, so follow park guidelines to protect them.
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