SheilaIn this guide, we’ll dive into the top things to do in Klamath Falls, Oregon, from exploring the great outdoors to soaking in the local culture. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, these activities will give you a true taste of all that Klamath Falls has to offer. And to be clear, despite the name, there are no waterfalls in Klamath Falls.
The Top Things to do in Klamath Falls From a Local
1. Explore Crater Lake National Park
No visit to Klamath Falls is complete without a trip to Crater Lake National Park. Crater Lake is located 54 miles from Klamath Falls, with Klamath Falls being the closest city hub to the park. While there are other accommodation options for staying near Crater Lake, most people will find their base in Klamath Falls for a day trip to Crater Lake.
Crater Lake is famous for its pristine blue waters and dramatic scenery. Formed over 7,700 years ago after a volcanic eruption, this breathtaking caldera is now a national treasure. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, scenic drives, and boat tours.
During the summer, you can take a boat tour around the lake or explore the Rim Trail, which offers panoramic views of the crater. There are also many hiking trails and near by camping spots to be enjoyed. In winter, Crater Lake becomes a wonderland for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding.
Regardless of the season, Crater Lake is one of the most stunning natural landmarks in the United States. Be sure to check their website for any closures and updated park information. This is especially important in the winter months as Crater Lake averages about 41 feet of snow per season.
2. Bird Watching
While I know this sounds like an interesting thing to make a top things list, bird watching in the Klamath Basin is serious business. The Klamath Basin in renowned for its’ birding opportunities. The refuges along the border of Oregon and California (Lower Klamath and Tule Lake) host upwards of 80% of the migrating waterfowl that use the Pacific Flyway. At times numbering to over a million birds.
According to the Klamath Basin Audubon Society, the refuges and agricultural lands surrounding Klamath Falls play host to one of the densest population of wintering raptors in the country. This incudes the highest concentration of wintering Bald Eagles in the lower 48. All that to say bird watching is a big deal here.
It is very common to see visitors with long lens cameras photographing birds at Moore Park or any of the wetland spots around town. For a great post with lots of information, check out Discover Klamath’s blog post on the topic.
3. Hike the Volcanoes of the Cascades
Klamath Falls is located near several major mountain ranges, including the Cascades. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love the variety of hiking opportunities nearby, many of which involve breathtaking views of volcanoes, alpine lakes, and pristine forests.
One of the most popular hikes in the region is the ascent of Mount McLoughlin, the highest peak in southern Oregon. The 9,500-foot summit offers sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges. While this hike is challenging, the views from the top are absolutely worth it. The starting point for this hike is about half-way between Klamath Falls and Medford making either city an ideal base.
If you’re looking for something a bit easier, the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, with fantastic views and plenty of wildlife sightings along the way.
And, if you can’t get enough of the Cascade Volcanoes, Lava Beds National Monument is worth a visit. There are more than 800 caves located here in the high desert wilderness with several of them open for caving. Even if caving isn’t your thing, just seeing the landscape is interesting and the visitor center is very informative.
4. Wander Through the Klamath County Museums
For those interested in history, there are 3 Klamath County Museums that are a must-see. These include the Klamath County Museum, The Baldwin Hotel Museum, and The Fort Klamath Museum (35 miles north of Klamath Falls).
Located in the heart of Klamath Falls, the Klamath County Museum offers a fascinating look into the area’s rich past. Exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including Native American history, early pioneer life, and the development of the Klamath River. One of the most interesting features of the museum is its collection of artifacts from the Modoc War, a conflict between the Modoc people and the U.S. Army in the 1870s. The museum also offers interactive exhibits for kids and a lovely outdoor garden that showcases native plants.
The Baldwin Hotel, built in 1905, was once a building right in the heart of bustling Klamath Falls. Originally built as a hardware store, it was converted in to a hotel in 1911. Falling into disrepair and financial troubles, the hotel closed down in 1971. In 1975 it was added to the National Registry of Historic Places and now serves as a museum housing 40 rooms full of antiques and artifacts.
If you’re a history buff or just want to learn more about the area, the Klamath County Museums provide a deep dive into the region’s past.
5. Relax at the Running Y Ranch Resort & Play on the Arnold Palmer Golf Course
If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience in Klamath Falls, the Running Y Ranch Resort is the place to be. This resort offers a beautiful setting with sprawling views of the surrounding mountains and Klamath Lake. Whether you’re staying overnight or just looking for a day of relaxation, the resort has plenty to offer.
Enjoy a round of golf at the Running Y Ranch Golf Course, which is rated one of the best in the region. This Arnold Palmer designed golf course was rated of his “Sweet 16” courses, as Mr. Palmer was very found of the course he designed here in Klamath Falls. You can see the cost and any specials they are offering on their website.
Afterward, you can unwind at the Running Y’s spa. The resort also offers miles of hiking and biking trails, a horse stable, and is perfect for those who want to enjoy the outdoors in a peaceful and scenic environment.
I would say Running Y is considered probably the most upscale accommodation offering in Klamath Falls. It is worth noting that it is not just a hotel and golf course but more of a complex as there are also houses and condos that share the space. In all it is a beautiful area and a stay. Be sure to check the Running Y website for any specials.
6. Check Out the Favell Museum of Western Art & Indian Artifacts
Art lovers visiting Klamath Falls should make a point to stop by the Favell Museum of Western Art & Indian Artifacts. This museum features an impressive collection of Native American artifacts and Western art, offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage.
The museum is particularly well-known for its vast collection of baskets, pottery, and tools created by Native American tribes from the surrounding area. There’s also a collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artwork by renowned Western artists. If you’re interested in the cultural history of the region, this museum is a must-visit. Be sure to check their website for up-to-date operating hours as they do have closures, especially during the winter.
7. Go for a Bike Ride on the OC & E Woods Line State Trail
For cyclists, the OC & E Woods Line State Trail offers over 100 miles of beautiful terrain to explore. This multi-use trail, which runs from Klamath Falls to the Oregon/California border, follows an old railroad line and is one of the longest rail-to-trail conversions in the country.
The trail is perfect for a leisurely bike ride, offering views of forests, wetlands, and farmland. You can also hike or ride horseback along the trail, making it a great option for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a scenic ride, this trail provides a fantastic way to see the region.
8. Outdoor Adventures
The Klamath Falls area is really an outdoor adventure loves paradise. There is a treasure trove of outdoor activities in and around Klamath Falls. The high desert landscape with the Cascade Mountain Range on one side and the Great Basin on the other, offers unique opportunities for exploration.
Kayaking and paddle boarding is very popular in the many waterways. A great place to access is the Klamath Canoe Trail which runs 9.5 miles in the northwestern corner of Upper Klamath Lake. Spring Creek at Collier Memorial State Park is another popular recreation site.
Boating in one of the many high mountain lakes in proximity to Klamath Falls is a great way to cool off in the hot summer months. The most popular being Lake of the Woods. We prefer Odell or Crescent Lake instead as they are generally less crowded and more affordable.
Camping and fishing are also staple adventures in our household. Again, the many high mountain lakes are an ideal place for either of these activities. We love Odell Lake for both fishing and camping. Any of the many lakes around this area are great options as well. If fishing is what you are looking for the Williamson River is worth mentioning. The Williamson is renowned for Red Band Trout. You can fish from the shore here in many locations. However, read up before you go as there are many regulations on this river.
A Special Note About Klamath Lake
Klamath Falls sits along the shores of Upper Klamath Lake, which is the largest body of fresh water in Oregon. As amazing as this sounds for recreational enjoyment, it is worth mentioning that this lake is a hypereutrophic lake. What does that mean exactly? That means that there are high levels of nutrients in the lake that cause excessive algae growth and other ecological issues.
During warmer months this leads to algae blooms. These algae blooms make the lake stinky, and toxic (especially for children and pets). You will not find people swimming and boating on Klamath Lake as they would in the other lakes around the basin. And that isn’t even mentioning the horrific midges that swarm in unsightly numbers around the lake during the summer and fall months.
That is not to say that people do not at all boat or fish in the lake. Some do. It is mostly a haven for bird watchers and the occasional person kayaking or canoeing.
Final Thoughts – Top Things to Do in Klamath Falls, Oregon
Klamath Falls, Oregon, is a place that combines natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a rich cultural history, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore the Pacific Northwest. From the stunning views of Crater Lake to the serene landscapes of Klamath Lake, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in this charming town.
Whether you’re hiking a volcano, doing some bird watching, or learning about the local culture at the Klamath County Museum, you’re sure to leave Klamath Falls with lasting memories. The beauty of this region is unmatched, and it offers something for every type of traveler. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Klamath Falls today!
