Silver Falls State Park to Crater Lake National Park: Travel Options and Details

Silver Falls State Park and Crater Lake National Park are two of the most popular natural destinations in Oregon, offering breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. For those planning to visit both parks, this blog post will provide you with the cheapest travel options, travel time, and other important details to help you plan your trip.

Cheapest Way to Travel

The cheapest way to travel from Silver Falls State Park to Crater Lake National Park costs approximately $49, which includes a 5-hour journey. This option involves driving the 220-mile route via US-20 E and OR-138 E.

Travel Time

The travel time from Silver Falls State Park to Crater Lake National Park is approximately 5 hours, covering a distance of around 220 miles.

Available Travel Options

There are two primary ways to travel from Silver Falls State Park to Crater Lake National Park:

1. Drive: The driving distance between the two parks is approximately 220 miles, taking around 5 hours via US-20 E and OR-138 E.
2. Public Transportation: You can use public transportation services such as buses or shuttles, which may take longer and require transfers. The cost for this option is around $48.

Driving Directions

To drive from Silver Falls State Park to Crater Lake National Park, follow these directions:

1. Head east on OR-214 S from Silver Falls State Park.
2. Turn right onto US-20 E and continue for approximately 180 miles.
3. Turn left onto OR-138 E and continue for the remaining 40 miles to Crater Lake National Park.

The total driving distance is around 220 miles, and the journey takes approximately 5 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.

Public Transportation

If you prefer to use public transportation, there are a few options available:

1. Shuttle Service: Some local shuttle companies offer transportation between Silver Falls State Park and Crater Lake National Park. The cost for this service is typically around $48 per person.
2. Bus Service: You can take a bus from Salem, Oregon, to Klamath Falls, and then transfer to another bus that goes to Crater Lake National Park. This option may take longer and require multiple transfers.

It’s important to note that public transportation schedules and availability may vary, so it’s best to research and book your tickets in advance.

5-Day Road Trip Itinerary

For a more comprehensive experience, consider a 5-day road trip that includes stops at Silver Falls State Park and Crater Lake National Park, as well as other local attractions. Here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive at Silver Falls State Park and explore the park’s trails, including the famous “Trail of Ten Falls.” Spend the night at a nearby campground or hotel.

Day 2: Depart Silver Falls State Park and drive to Bend, Oregon, stopping at local cafes and breweries along the way. Spend the night in Bend.

Day 3: Continue your journey to Crater Lake National Park, taking in the stunning views of the deep blue lake. Explore the park’s hiking trails and scenic drives. Spend the night at a campground or lodge within the park.

Day 4: Spend the day exploring Crater Lake National Park, visiting the Rim Village, and participating in ranger-led activities.

Day 5: Depart Crater Lake National Park and head back home or continue your journey to other destinations in Oregon.

Important Details

Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park is known for its stunning waterfalls, including the famous “Trail of Ten Falls,” which features a 7.2-mile loop with an elevation change of 800 feet. The park offers restrooms with flush toilets near the main parking lot, making it a convenient stop for visitors.

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is renowned for its deep blue lake, formed by the collapse of a former volcano. The park offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and camping facilities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.

References

1. Oregon State Parks. (n.d.). Silver Falls State Park. Retrieved from https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=151
2. Oregon Teardrop Rentals. (n.d.). Silver Falls Crater Lake Road Trip. Retrieved from https://www.oregonteardroprentals.com/silver-falls-crater-lake-road-trip
3. Rome2rio. (n.d.). Crater Lake National Park to Silver Falls State Park. Retrieved from https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Crater-Lake-National-Park/Silver-Falls-State-Park
4. Rome2rio. (n.d.). Silver Falls State Park to Crater Lake National Park. Retrieved from https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Silver-Falls-State-Park/Crater-Lake-National-Park
5. Tripadvisor. (2007). Help w itinerary. Where between Silver Falls & Crater Lk. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g28958-i237-k1259158-Help_w_itinerary_Where_between_Silver_Falls_Crater_Lk-Oregon.html.