Crater Lake northern entrance opens today

The News-Review
Roseburg, Oregon
May 24, 2007
ADAM PEARSON

Just in time for holiday travel this Memorial Day weekend, the north entrance to Crater Lake National Park marks its annual opening — extra early.

The snow melt and road opening, park officials say, are three weeks ahead of schedule and the earliest in more than a decade. At noon today, park visitors can enter via this popular route from Highway 138 East, south of Diamond Lake.

The early opening is the result of below-average snow this past winter, a warm, sunny May and the determined Park Service’s snow-removal efforts. Caution on the road is advised as snow and icy conditions can return at any time.

Rim Drive around Crater Lake is expected to open by early July.

The Steel Visitor Center in Munson Valley is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Crater Lake Lodge is also open, as well as Mazama Village’s gas station and village store, each from noon to 5 p.m.

Mazama Village Motor Inn is expected to open June 1. Mazama Campground should open June 15, weather permitting.

Several feet of snow still covers much of the park. Visitors should watch for slippery snow patches, falling rocks and ice patches on the road at night and in early morning hours.

Information: (541) 594-3000.