Crater Lake :: Crater Lake, Oregon

Breathtaking, inspiring, spectacular, there are clearly not enough words in the English language to describe the beauty and the grandeur of Crater Lake in Crater Lake, Oregon. Somewhere in the middle of the 6th century BC an enormous explosion of rock and lava destroyed the volcano Mount Mazama. In its place was a massive caldera that filled over thousands of years with snow and rain creating a lake so deep and so eerily blue it’s practically mesmerizing. To reach the absolute bottom you would have to descend an astounding 1,932 feet which makes Crater Lake the deepest in the United States and the ninth deepest in the world. Pure, pristine, and crystal clear the incredible peace one feels here will stay with you for the rest of your life.

Although the unique blue hue of the water is what visitors seem to remember most, there is tons of stuff to do in and around Crater Lake. The fresh water is perfect for a summer plunge off the Cleetwood Cove Trail. Keep an eye out for the “Old Man of the Lake” a fallen mountain hemlock log that has been floating around the waters for over a century. The park also offers extensive boat tours, perfect for grabbing a closer look at Wizard Island and Phantom Ship, the lake’s two islands. There is also plenty of fishing. Although there were no fish native to the water, several species were introduced and anglers will be pleased to find lots of Rainbow Trout and Kokanee Salmon still plentiful for the catching. Open throughout the year, Crater Lake National Park can be a fantastic ski spot in the winter but expect a lot of snow (the area averages 44 feet a year).

There is abundant space for camping, but if you are looking for more creature comforts you will definitely want to spend a night or two in the historic Crater Lake Lodge. Opened in 1915, its 71 rooms sit on the edge of the caldera overlooking the deep azure waters of the lake. And each is generously furnished to reflect the rustic beauty of the land surrounding it. There are also several cabins spread throughout the grounds of the park that are located in prime spots for hiking, biking, and nature watching. An active vacationer’s paradise, Crater Lake has been drawing people for millennia to its mystical blue waters. A perfect place to while a week away, Crater Lake promises to fill your eyes and your soul with everlasting serenity and splendor.