Crater Lake road ready for drivers Wednesday

Herald and News
Klamath Falls, Oregon
June 15, 2004

CRATER LAKE - The North Entrance Road at Crater Lake National Park will open to motorists noon Wednesday.

The later than usual opening was forced because of late spring snow. The North Entrance Road opening is significant because it allows travelers to, for example, enter the park from the South Entrance and exit, without backtracking, through the North Entrance.

"Park maintenance crews have worked hard to open the roads as early as possible this year even though the spring snow levels were higher than usual," said Superintendent Chuck Lundy.

Motorists are urged to use caution because of possible slippery snow patches, falling rocks and icy patches of road. Steep snowfields still persist at many overlooks along Rim Drive.

Park officials said the entire 33-mile Rim Drive is not expected to open until mid-July. Snow clearing efforts are now being focused on opening Rim Drive to Cleetwood Cove, which has the only trail to the lake. Tour boats will operate after the trail is opened and the boats and drivers pass annual inspection checks.

Facilities at Rim Village are open, including Crater Lake Lodge. The Rim Visitor Center, which is staffed by park rangers and Natural History Association employees, is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Concession facilities open include various Rim Village operations - the Rim Village Cafeteria and Gift Shop, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Watchman Restaurant. Open at Mazama Village near the South Entrance are the Mazama Village Motor Inn, gas station and store. Mazama Campground is scheduled to open Friday, weather permitting.

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