America's Deepest Lake to Ban Open Water Swimmers After Summer 2026
Swimming in America's deepest lake to be prohibited for a period of two years due to restoration work, affecting open water swimmers.
Crater Lake, located in southwestern Oregon, will ban open water swimmers starting from the summer season of 2026. This decision comes as part of a two-year restoration plan announced by officials which will also bar all access to the lake. Visitors will still be able to observe the lake from various viewpoints along its elevated rim during the restoration period.
As the deepest lake in the United States, spanning more than 20 square miles, Crater Lake attracts over half a million tourists annually who come to witness its pristine blue water and explore the surrounding wilderness via hikes. Presently, open water swimmers can access the lake via the scenic Cleetwood Cove trail, with swimming areas open from mid-June to October. However, following this season, the Cleetwood Cove trail will be closed until 2028, as reported by SFGATE.
The two-year restoration project, projected to cost over $20 million, aims to address various environmental issues, such as alterations to popular trails, as well as infrastructure concerns. This includes improving the tread and retaining walls on the Cleetwood Cove trail, addressing rockfall hazards, replacing the old dock with a new marina, and upgrading outdated toilets. The work will primarily take place during the summer months to circumvent hazardous winter weather and unsafe conditions.
Crater Lake was formed about 7,700 years ago, following the eruption and subsequent collapse of the ancient Mount Mazama volcano. This geological event resulted in a giant volcanic caldera that naturally collects rainfall and melted snow to form the present-day lake. The swim ban and trail rehabilitation will not impact the ability of tourists to view the lake from designated viewpoints along its rim.
Visitors wishing to immerse themselves post-swim might consider protective changing robes, while water shoes offering fast-draining and quick-drying features would be suitable for transitioning from the shore to the sea.
With limited means of accessing the lake during the restoration period, visitors seeking alternative open water swimming options should remain informed of any updates regarding the project. The restoration plans for Crater Lake are available on the National Park Service's website, including details on the Cleetwood Cove trail rehabilitation, marina replacement, and facility upgrades.
After the swim ban at Crater Lake from summer 2026, those passionate about environmental-science and outdoor-living might consider exploring other lakes for open water swimming. To enhance the lifestyle of hikers and nature-lovers, it's advisable to invest in home-and-garden items such as protective changing robes and water shoes for swift transitions between land and water. For enthusiasts of sports and lifestyle, staying updated on the progress of Crater Lake's restoration project and alternative open water swimming opportunities becomes essential.
