If you’re planning a vacation and would like a quick comparison of Crater Lake National Park and Canyonlands National Park, we’ve got you covered.
We’ll take a look at what they have to offer in terms of hiking and wildlife, plus what the best time of year to visit might be.
Let’s get started with an overview of Crater Lake National Park.
Table Of Contents
Crater Lake National Park Overview
Crater Lake inspires awe. Native Americans witnessed its formation 7,700 years ago, when a violent eruption triggered the collapse of a tall peak. Scientists marvel at its purity—fed by rain and snow, it’s the deepest lake in the USA and one of the most pristine on Earth. Artists, photographers, and sightseers gaze in wonder at its blue water and stunning setting atop the Cascade Mountain Range.
Canyonlands National Park Overview
Canyonlands invites you to explore a wilderness of countless canyons and fantastically formed buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. Rivers divide the park into four districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves. These areas share a primitive desert atmosphere, but each offers different opportunities for sightseeing and adventure.
Hiking At National Parks
Most national parks have some of the best hiking trails you’ll find anywhere in the US.
If you’re planning to take along your furry friend, double-check the rules before you go – as many of the parks have different rules about bringing animals along with you.
Crater Lake National Park Hiking Trails
Crater Lake National Park is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. If you’re looking for an easy hike, the Rim Village Trail is a great option. This paved trail winds its way around Crater Lake, offering stunning views of the lake and mountaintops. For a more challenging hike, try the hike to Wizard Island. This strenuous 8-mile round-trip hike takes you to the top of Wizard Island, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Crater Lake. No matter which trail you choose, Crater Lake National Park is sure to provide an unforgettable hiking experience.
Best Hikes At Crater Lake National Park
The ratings below are based on user-submitted data at AllTrails.com
| Hike Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Rating | Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Godfrey Glen Trail | 19.812 | 1 | loop | 4 |
| Crater Peak Trail | 360.8832 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Annie Creek Canyon Trail | 92.964 | 3 | loop | 4 |
| Castle Crest Wildflower Garden Trail | 36.8808 | 1 | loop | 4 |
| Dutton Creek Trail | 317.9064 | 3 | out and back | 4 |
| Lightning Spring Trail | 395.9352 | 3 | out and back | 4 |
| Pacific Crest Trail and Alternate Loop | 1211.8848 | 5 | loop | 4.5 |
| Lady of the Woods Trail | 33.8328 | 1 | loop | 3 |
| Stuart Falls Trail | 438.912 | 3 | out and back | 4 |
| Union Peak Trail | 512.9784 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
Hiking Overview at Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with plenty of trails to suit all levels of ability. For those who are looking for an easy hike, the Canyon Overlook Trail is a great option. It’s only 0.5 miles long and takes around 30 minutes to complete. The trailhead is located near the Canyonlands Visitor Center, making it easy to find. For those who are looking for a more challenging hike, the Mesa Arch Trail is a great option. It’s 1.2 miles long and takes around 90 minutes to complete. The trailhead is located near the Grand View Point Overlook, making it easy to find. However, be aware that the last part of the hike involves scrambling over rocks, so it’s not suitable for everyone.
Top 10 Hiking Trails at Canyonlands National Park
| Hike Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Rating | Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Confluence Overlook Trail | 409.956 | 3 | loop | 4.5 |
| Maze Overlook Trail | 293.8272 | 3 | out and back | 5 |
| Lost Canyon | 238.9632 | 3 | loop | 4.5 |
| Shafer Canyon Overlook | 13.716 | 1 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Cave Spring Trail | 11.8872 | 3 | loop | 4 |
| Squawflat Trail to Lost Canyon Peekaboo Trail | 453.8472 | 5 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Murphy Trail Loop | 491.9472 | 5 | loop | 4.5 |
| Salt Creek and Horse Canyon OHV Trail | 279.8064 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Devils Pocket Loop | 511.7592 | 3 | loop | 5 |
| Elephant Hill Trail | 221.8944 | 1 | out and back | 4.5 |
Wildlife at Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park is home to an amazing variety of wildlife. You can find everything from eagles and ospreys to elk and deer. The park also contains a number of sensitive plant species, including the western white pine and the Crater Lake lily. In addition, Crater Lake is an important stopover point for migrating birds. Every year, hundreds of thousands of birds use the lake as a resting place during their journey north. As a result, Crater Lake is teeming with life, and there is always something new to see.
Wildlife at Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Canyonlands is divided into three major ecosystems: desert, riparian, and canyon. The desert ecosystem is the most widespread, covering 60% of the park. In this arid environment, you can find plants such as cacti and Joshua trees. Animals that call the desert home include lizards, snakes, rabbits, and mice. The riparian ecosystem can be found near rivers and streams. Here you will find cottonwoods and willows as well as animals such as beavers, otters, and fish. The canyon ecosystem is the most diverse, with a variety of plant life including ferns, mosses, and wildflowers. Canyon animals include birds of prey, bats, and small rodents. No matter where you explore in Canyonlands National Park, you are sure to see a wide variety of plants and animals.
What’s the best time to visit?
A lot of times, weather can dictate when it makes the most sense to visit a particular national park.
Plus, depending on the types of activities you’re hoping to take part in, seasonality will be a huge factor in whether those things are even available.
Crater Lake National Park Weather Considerations
Crater Lake National Park is a beautiful place to visit all year round. However, the weather can vary greatly depending on the time of year. The best time to visit Crater Lake National Park is from June to September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the views. However, Crater Lake National Park can also be crowded during this time of year. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, late September to early October is a great time to visit Crater Lake National Park. The weather is still pleasant, but the crowds have typically dispersed by this point. The worst time to visit Crater Lake National Park is from November to May. During these months, the weather is cold and often snowy, making it difficult to enjoy the park’s many activities. If you do decide to visit Crater Lake National Park during these months, be sure to dress warmly and bring plenty of supplies.
Canyonlands National Park Weather Considerations
Canyonlands National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. The park is known for its stunning views of canyons, red rock formations, and desert landscapes. Canyonlands National Park is located in Utah, and its weather varies greatly depending on the time of year. The best time to visit Canyonlands National Park is during the spring or fall. During these months, the weather is mild and the landscapes are beautiful. However, Canyonlands National Park can be extremely hot during the summer, and winter can bring cold temperatures and snow. As a result, Canyonlands National Park can be a great destination for all types of travelers.