The Crater Lake Rim Drive--Exploring the park by car is de rigueur for most people. There are 33 miles of the famous Rim Drive, with more than 30 overlooks lining this summertime-only two-lane road, and a couple of spur roads that lead to spectacular spots in the southeastern section of the park. Allow 2 hours to complete the drive; more time if you plan to enjoy any of the many trails and overlooks that are accessible from it. Gasoline is available only at Mazama, and then only from late May to mid-October. Otherwise, gasoline should be purchased in Medford, Roseburg, or any of the other outlying communities.
It's best to travel clockwise on Rim Drive because all the lake view points are located on the inside, or right, side of the road as you drive that way, so entering and exiting the view points is easier. There are also some view points on the outside of the ring that provide views of mountain scenery away from the lake.
