The Crater Lake Rim Drive closure has been a significant event for visitors and enthusiasts of this iconic national park. The East Rim Drive was closed to motorized vehicles on two consecutive Saturdays in September 2024 for the “Ride the Rim” event. This closure allowed for nonmotorized recreation, including biking, hiking, and running. While the event-related closures have concluded, ongoing road rehabilitation construction continues to affect access to certain areas of the East Rim Drive.
What Were the Exact Dates and Times of the Closure?
The Crater Lake Rim Drive closure for the “Ride the Rim” event occurred on:
- Saturday, September 7, 2024
- Saturday, September 14, 2024
For each event day, the closure timeline was as follows:
- Start: 7:00 PM on the Friday before the event
- End: 4:00 PM on the event day (Saturday)
This schedule allowed for a full day of nonmotorized activities while minimizing disruption to regular park visitors.
Which Sections of the Rim Drive Were Affected?
The closure primarily impacted the East Rim Drive. Here’s a breakdown of the affected areas:
- East Rim Drive: Closed to motorized vehicles during the event days
- West Rim Drive: Remained open for all travel
- North Entrance Road: Open, except during specific fire-related closures
It’s important to note that even after the “Ride the Rim” events, a portion of East Rim Drive between Skell Head and Phantom Ship Overlook remains closed due to ongoing road rehabilitation construction.
What Activities Were Allowed During the Closure?
During the Crater Lake Rim Drive closure, the following activities were permitted:
- Biking
- Hiking
- Running
- E-biking (with pedal assistance only)
These nonmotorized activities allowed participants to experience the beauty of Crater Lake without the presence of motorized vehicles.
How Long is the Rim Drive Route?
For those planning to participate in future “Ride the Rim” events or simply curious about the route, here are the key details:
- Total distance: Approximately 25 miles
- Elevation gain: 3,500 feet
- Altitude: Over 7,000 feet
This challenging route offers breathtaking views of Crater Lake and the surrounding landscape.
Where Could Participants Park During the Event?
Parking for the “Ride the Rim” event was available at several locations:
- North Junction
- Park Headquarters
- Picnic Hill area of Rim Village
To facilitate transportation, a free shuttle service was provided. This service helped participants get to the start of their ride or back to their vehicles at the end of the event. However, it’s worth noting that the shuttle did not carry bicycles.
What Were the Costs Associated with the Event?
The “Ride the Rim” event itself was free to participate in. However, visitors were still required to pay the normal park entrance fees. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Event Participation | Free |
| Park Entrance Fee | Standard National Park fees apply |
It’s important to budget for the park entrance fee when planning to attend future events.
What Safety Measures Were in Place?
While the event provided a unique opportunity to experience Crater Lake, participants were responsible for their own safety. Some key points to consider:
- No SAG wagon (support vehicle) was provided
- Participants were advised to plan their ride carefully
- Bringing additional snacks and water was recommended
- Safety mechanisms were crucial, especially for those riding past 4:00 PM
These measures ensured that participants could enjoy the event while being prepared for the challenges of the route.
How Did the Closure Impact Regular Park Visitors?
The Crater Lake Rim Drive closure had varying impacts on regular park visitors:
- Motorized vehicle access: Limited on East Rim Drive during event days
- Alternative routes: West Rim Drive and North Entrance Road remained open (except during fire-related closures)
- Viewing opportunities: Some overlooks may have been less accessible during the event
Despite these temporary changes, the park remained open and accessible to visitors, with many areas unaffected by the closure.
What Amenities Were Available During the Event?
While the “Ride the Rim” event focused on nonmotorized activities, several amenities were available to participants:
- Free shuttle service (without bicycle transport)
- Parking at designated areas
- Normal park facilities remained open
Participants were encouraged to be self-sufficient, bringing their own supplies for the ride.
How Does the Ongoing Construction Affect Current Access?
Even after the conclusion of the “Ride the Rim” events, visitors should be aware of ongoing construction:
- A portion of East Rim Drive between Skell Head and Phantom Ship Overlook remains closed
- This closure is due to road rehabilitation construction
- Visitors should check the park’s official website for the most up-to-date information on access and closures
What Should Future Visitors Know About Potential Closures?
For those planning future visits to Crater Lake National Park:
- Check the park’s official website regularly for updates on closures and events
- Be aware that “Ride the Rim” events may occur annually, typically in September
- Plan for potential closures or limited access on East Rim Drive due to ongoing construction
- Consider participating in “Ride the Rim” events for a unique park experience
- Always be prepared with supplies and safety equipment when exploring the park
By staying informed and planning ahead, visitors can make the most of their Crater Lake experience, whether during special events or regular park operations.
How Can Visitors Stay Updated on Park Conditions?
To ensure you have the most current information about Crater Lake Rim Drive closures and park conditions:
- Visit the official Crater Lake National Park website regularly
- Follow the park’s social media accounts for real-time updates
- Contact the park directly for specific inquiries
- Check local news sources for any major announcements
- Join Crater Lake-focused online communities for shared experiences and tips
Staying informed will help you plan a safe and enjoyable visit to this magnificent natural wonder.
References:
1. https://www.nps.gov/crla/learn/news/crater-lake-national-park-to-host-ride-the-rim-days-2024.htm
2. https://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/conditions.htm
3. https://ridetherimoregon.com/important-updates-2/