Crater Lake · January · Oregon
Crater Lake National Park in January
January is a fair month for Crater Lake National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 34°F and lows 22°F, with about 6.03 inches of rain.
January is rated fair at Crater Lake. Consider Jul–Sep instead.
What to expect
Honest take: January is not the month for Crater Lake. One of the snowiest inhabited places in the country, averaging around 40 feet a year. Only the south entrance and Rim Village stay open; ranger-led snowshoe walks run on weekends.
Snow often lingers on trails into July. If you want the full experience (Rim Drive, the boat, swimming), aim for late July through mid-September.
Good to know
- Best months overall: Jul–Sep.
- Closest airport: Medford (MFR), about 1.5 hours.
- Before you go: The north entrance and most of Rim Drive close in winter. Boat tours are seasonal, usually July to September, and sell out. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Questions
Is January a good time to visit Crater Lake National Park?
January is a fair month for Crater Lake National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 34°F and lows 22°F, with about 6.03 inches of rain.
What is the weather like in Crater Lake National Park in January?
Highs average 34°F and lows 22°F, with about 6.03 inches of rain. Conditions are fair this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.
How crowded is Crater Lake National Park in January?
January is one of the quietest months at Crater Lake National Park.