Ecosystem Summary/Conclusion
Overall, the aquatic ecosystem of Crater Lake is surprisingly diverse. Although not dense or overly abundant in any species, there is a broad spectrum of different organisms within. The lack of dissolved organic matter and sediment restricts the ecosystem from fully thriving, but it also gives the lake its unique and extraordinary water clarity and light penetration down past 400 feet. If it weren't for that restriction, the lake wouldn't be the home for 4,000+ year old moss. Crater Lake is definitely a one of a kind and definitely worth a visit.
Faq's about Crater lake
Is the water warm enough to swim in?
- Yes, the water can reach 60° F in the summer. A little chilly, but refreshing at the same time.
- Yes, this was a volcano. It erupted over 7,000 years ago and collapsed to form Crater Lake
- Technically the caldera is still active, but volcanic activity is monitored very closely. If it does erupt again, it will not be like the first eruption because the molten lava reserves have already been depleted from under the caldera.
- Very rarely. The last recorded freeze was in 1949(NPS). Normally, the weather does not get cold enough to completely freeze the lake over, but it has certainly happened before.
- You certainly can. In fact, fishing is encouraged. Neither of the species of fish in Crater Lake are native species. Make sure you use artificial bait, as we don't want to expose the lake to more native species.
- Recreational boating is not allowed on Crater Lake in order to minimize pollution and maintain the lake's pristine water quality and clarity.
- Everything that we see reflects and absorbs different light wavelengths. It just happens that pure water absorbs all wavelengths except blue. Crater Lake is by no means 100% pure water, but a large portion of it is.
- All of the water in Crater Lake has come down from precipitation. Most of which has been in the form of snow. This has allowed the lake to stay so pure for thousands of years.
- Swimming is allowed at the end of the 1.1 mile Cleetwood Cove Trail. It is quite a steep trail, so watch your step!
- There are two hydrothermal vents located on the floor of the lake. Both have small, biotic ecosystems living around them.