Adventure Guide

How to Experience Winter at Crater Lake National Park

All Roads Lead to
2024 Klamath Basin Oktoberfest

All Roads Lead to Oktoberfest

Welcome to the heart and soul of Southern Oregon! Find your path to your Klam-cation! As all roads in Klamath County lead to the Klamath Basin.

Running Y Resort Thanksgiving Dinner, Thursday, November 28th, 2pm-4pm

Thanksgiving Week November 27th-30th

Hometown Thanksgiving Adventure in Klamath County: Where Every Road Leads to Holiday Fun!

Spend Thanksgiving weekend surrounded by the scenic beauty and cozy charm of Klamath County! Embrace the warmth of a hometown holiday with activities that’ll keep the whole family entertained. Start with seasonal outdoor adventures, enjoy a traditional feast, shopping, and festive fun. Whether you’re cozying up in a cabin, exploring snowy trails, or indulging in local flavors, Klamath County offers countless ways to make Thanksgiving unforgettable. From mountain lodges to lakefront cabins to a relaxing resort, and from snowy adventures to warm campfire gatherings, every path here leads to holiday cheer.

Newsflash

The Tale of The Princess Kaguya

Kick off your Thanksgiving with the magical storytelling of The Tale of The Princess Kaguya on the big screen! Showing Thanksgiving Eve at Pelican Cinema as part of Studio Ghibli Fest 2024, this enchanting film brings timeless beauty and adventure to your holiday week. Don’t miss it!

Ross Ragland 85th Annual Fundraiser Showing The Westerner

On Saturday, November 23, 2024, The Ross Ragland will celebrate 85 years of the building's history! The Esquire Theater opened on November 30, 1940, with the movie "The Westerner". To kick off their yearlong celebration, a special showing will be on the big screen! An exhibit featuring artifacts from the Esquire Theater will be on display in the lobby. Dana Wirth will also be performing to help celebrate in style! This is a FREE event, so don't forget to reserve your seats today!

thanksgiving Eve

September 27th, 2024

Luxury Resort Avenue

Escape to the serene beauty of Running Y Resort for a Thanksgiving weekend for a lifetime! Nestled in the heart of Klamath County, this luxurious resort is the perfect holiday retreat, offering complimentary tickets for two to their lavish Thanksgiving Buffet. Enjoy the resort's incredible amenities, including scenic horseback riding trails, a world-class golf course, and a rejuvenating spa. Make cherished holiday memories with loved ones as you glide across the ice skating rink (subject to reopening), then cozy up in beautifully appointed accommodations. At Running Y, Thanksgiving feels like a getaway tailored just for you! 

Cozy Cabin Trail

This Thanksgiving, trade the bustle for a serene cabin stay in Klamath County! Unwind at Lake of the Woods, Rocky Point Resort, or Crystal Creek Mountain Lodge, where adventure and relaxation await. Spend your days fishing, kayaking, or paddling on tranquil waters, and your evenings by the campfire with s’mores in hand. Experience the magic of a holiday weekend surrounded by nature’s beauty!

North County Lodge Lane

Celebrate Thanksgiving surrounded by the beauty of North Klamath County! Stay cozy in a lodge at Odell Lake Lodge & Resort, Lonesome Duck on the Willamette River, or Red Cone Lodge Bed & Breakfast by Crescent Lake, complete with a hot tub to unwind after a day of winter fun. With stunning views and a peaceful retreat, it’s the perfect spot for a holiday getaway!

Black Friday Under Blue Skies Blvd

Make your Thanksgiving memorable in Klamath Falls, with affordable lodging options for every budget—from KOA cabins to hotels like Fairfield, Shilo Inn, Days Inn, and Microtel Inn & Suites. While you’re here, explore charming downtown boutiques, shop for unique treasures, and enjoy a laid-back holiday atmosphere perfect for relaxing and unwinding!

Thanksgiving day buffet

November 28th, 2024

This Thanksgiving, treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at the scenic Running Y Resort. Surrounded by breathtaking views and warm holiday ambiance, the Thanksgiving Buffet offers a luxurious spread of seasonal favorites that will delight every palate. From traditional roast turkey and all the classic trimmings to chef-inspired sides and delectable desserts, this feast is the perfect way to celebrate with family and friends.

For $65 per adult and $30 per child, indulge in the flavors of fall while overlooking the serene beauty of Klamath County. With seating times available at 2, 3, and 4 PM, it’s easy to find the perfect time to gather around the table. Reservations are required, so secure your spot today and make this Thanksgiving a cozy, delicious retreat at Running Y Resort.

Black Friday Under Blue Skies

September 29th, 2024

Luxury Resort Avenue

Indulge in pure relaxation this Thanksgiving with a rejuvenating spa day (or two!) at Running Y Resort, while the rest of the family explores Winter Wonderland adventures [link to Winter Wonderland landing page]. For a memorable group experience, gather everyone for a scenic horseback ride through the resort’s stunning rolling acres, where breathtaking views and fresh mountain air make every moment unforgettable. Whether it’s unwinding solo or creating holiday memories together, Running Y Resort has something special for everyone this Thanksgiving.

Lakefront Cozy Cabin Trail

This Black Friday, trade shopping lines for the snowy trails of Annie Creek Sno-Park! Enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding in the serene Fremont-Winema National Forest. Then, head to East Klamath County for fishing, kayaking, and a cozy campfire at Rocky Point or Upper Klamath Lake. Embrace an adventure-filled day surrounded by nature’s beauty!

North County Lodge Lane

Ditch the crowds and enjoy a unique adventure at Train Mountain Railroad in Chiloquin, home to the world’s longest miniature railroad with over 36 miles of scenic track through lush landscapes. After exploring the detailed train models, rent an e-bike from Zach’s Bikes in Klamath Falls to explore Collier Memorial State Park. Ride through forested trails, visit the Logging Museum, and discover historic logging equipment and cabins for a day of history, nature, and outdoor fun!

Black Friday Under Blue Skies Blvd

Skip the mall and discover Klamath Falls’ best treasures! Start your day exploring unique boutiques, thrift shops, and antique finds at places like Woodsy Kitchen, Rare Bird, Keeper’s Corner, and Everybody’s Vintage. Afterward, enjoy a delicious dinner at local favorites like Thai Orchid Café or Rooster’s Steak and Chop House. End the night with drinks at Basin Martini Bar, Common Block Brewing, or Volcanic Winery, then challenge family members to pool at Black Dog Billiards. This Black Friday, experience a local adventure full of charm, flavor, and fun!

weekend wonderland

September 30th-31st, 2024

Winter Wonders Await in Klamath County

Experience a winter escape in Klamath County, where sunny skies meet snowy adventures! With over 300 days of sunshine annually, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the best of winter’s beauty. Information can be found here on rental equipment for snowy fun!

Explore Snowy Crater Lake National Park

Discover Crater Lake National Park transformed into a winter wonderland. Snowshoe or cross-country ski along the scenic Rim Drive with breathtaking views of the lake’s deep blue waters. Join a ranger-guided snowshoe walk to learn about the park’s unique winter ecosystem and enjoy the serene beauty of snow-covered landscapes.The memories and pictures will be priceless.Winter guide to visiting Crater Lake in the winter.

North County Lodge Lane

Ditch the crowds and enjoy a unique adventure at Train Mountain Railroad in Chiloquin, home to the world’s longest miniature railroad with over 36 miles of scenic track through lush landscapes. After exploring the detailed train models, rent an e-bike from Zach’s Bikes in Klamath Falls to explore Collier Memorial State Park. Ride through forested trails, visit the Logging Museum, and discover historic logging equipment and cabins for a day of history, nature, and outdoor fun!

Adventure at Annie Creek Sno-Park

Add some extra fun to your trip with a visit to Annie Creek Sno-Park, where you can enjoy cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing on snowy trails surrounded by towering pines. It's an ideal spot to dive into Klamath’s outdoor magic.

Ice Skating at Bill Collier Community Ice Arena

Glide across the open-air Bill Collier Community Ice Arena, set amidst forested hills in Klamath Falls. Whether you're a pro skater or just starting out, it’s a winter activity for all ages. Be sure to call the arena for open skate days and time! (Subject to Reopening).

Plan Your Winter Escape

Klamath County’s blend of sunshine and snow offers the ultimate setting for a memorable winter vacation. From Crater Lake’s stunning vistas to the family-friendly fun at Annie Creek Sno-Park, this winter wonderland awaits you!

Embracing the Winter Magic at Crater Lake

Crater Lake, America's fifth National Park, nestled alongside other iconic parks like Rainier and Yellowstone, offers a unique winter experience that remains open to visitors throughout the colder months. Unlike its summer counterpart, the winter season at Crater Lake transforms the landscape into a breathtaking snowy wonderland. This distinct winter charm provides a different perspective of the park, making it a must-visit destination for both summer and winter explorations.

ACTIVITIES
Snow Sports
Family Fun
Lakes
National Parks
SEASONS
Winter

One of the snowiest places in the world

Crater Lake in winter is not just a destination; it's an experience in one of the snowiest inhabited places on Earth. Whether you're witnessing snow for the first time or are a seasoned snow enthusiast, the park's substantial annual snowfall is awe-inspiring. The immense snowfall is not only a spectacle but also a vital ecological component, as a ranger aptly put it, "winter is why we have the lake." The consistent snowfall contributes to the lake's near-constant water levels, a unique feature given that there are no streams flowing in or out of Crater Lake.

Viewing the snowy caldera

The snowy caldera of Crater Lake is a sight to behold. Visitors can enjoy this majestic view from Rim Village, with an indoor viewing option available on the third floor of the Rim Village Gift Shop, making it accessible to anyone. The contrast of the deep blue lake against the white snow is a mesmerizing scene, offering a serene and picturesque landscape that encapsulates the beauty of winter.

Snowshoeing adventures

Snowshoeing at Crater Lake offers an immersive winter experience. Visitors can bring their own snowshoes or rent them at Rim Village. One popular destination is Discovery Point, accessible via the snow-covered Rim Drive. The park also offers ranger-led snowshoe tours, providing an educational journey through the forests and meadows along the rim. These tours are suitable for beginners and are a great way to learn about the park's winter ecology while enjoying the stunning scenery. Be sure to check with the NPS to learn more about tour schedules and availability.

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Cross-Country skiing thrills

Crater Lake National Park is a haven for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. With a variety of marked and unmarked routes, skiers can explore the park's forests, enjoy the views along West Rim Drive, or venture to Vidae Falls on the East Rim Drive. The East Rim offers solitude and spectacular lake views, making it a favorite among skiers. Important! Visitors are reminded that skiing inside the caldera is unsafe and not allowed. Ski equipment can be rented from local outfitters outside the park.

Snowmobiling excursions

For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, snowmobiling is an exciting option. The park's north entrance road and the nearby Annie Creek sno-park, just south of the park, provide access to over 300 miles of groomed trails. These trails offer a unique way to explore the park's winter landscape and are a popular choice for snowmobile enthusiasts.

Observing winter adaptations and wildlife

Winter at Crater Lake is about recreational activities and observing unique natural phenomena and wildlife adaptations. Visitors might spot snow spiders or the intriguing "watermelon snow," a pink lichen that grows on melting snow. Due to its massive water volume, the lake rarely freezes, with the last complete freeze recorded in the 1940s. Rangers are available to share more insights into these fascinating winter occurrences.

Preparing for winter conditions

Visitors to Crater Lake in winter should be prepared for snowy and icy conditions. Roads at the South entrance to the Rim Village are cleared daily, but it's essential to drive cautiously and consider using snow tires. It's also advisable to bring necessary winter gear and supplies before arriving at the lake, ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit.

Crater Lake in winter is a magical destination that offers a unique blend of serene beauty, exciting activities, and educational opportunities. From snowshoeing and skiing to observing unique natural phenomena, the park provides a winter experience unlike any other. It's a place where the wonders of nature are magnified by the blanket of snow, creating a serene and awe-inspiring environment.

Find more winter adventures

Explore more snowy thrills in Klamath with our guide to the top winter adventures in Klamath. Choose between hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails, snowshoe tracks across frozen lakes, or ice skating fun for the whole family. Klamath is home to a treasure trove of seasonal adventures just waiting to be explored!

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