Crater Lake

We had hoped to arrive early to the park, but administrative duties held us up most of the day. Despite complaining about it, it is nice to have technology to allow bill paying and the sorts at our finger tips.  It also gave us a chance to take in the people of Southern Oregon....a breed of their own.  After lunch we were back on our way up north to Crater Lake.  Once again, we were lucky to secure one of the last RV sites.  It seems luck is always on our side....and we are filled with gratitude once again.  After dinner at the lodge, we went to a ranger talk discussing the past and future of the lake.  Quite interesting and it just made us thirsty for more.  Interestingly enough, and our luck continuing to expand, Guy was able to secure two of the last tickets for the boat tour in morning.

We were up early and excited to be on our way.  So, after Guy had his daily 5 mile run, we headed to the north rim.  There is only one safe way to the lake and that is down a very steep switchback trail that decends about a mile.  We arrived just in time, as the boat was full and waiting for us to depart.

How did the mountain at 7000 feet altitude become a lake?  A massive volcanic eruption almost 8,000 years ago left a deep basin in the place where a mountain peak once stood.  Centuries of rain and snow filled the basin, forming a deep blue lake whose waters are of unmatched color and clarity.  It's the deepest lake in the U.S. reaching 1,943 feet at its deepest point.  The lake is 6 miles across and the clarity is 100 feet deep!  The two hour tour was full of interesting facts and beautiful scenery.  I have never seen water so clear.  Although swimming is allowed, the 56 degree water was certainly not an option for me.  But, we did partake in filling our water bottles and drinking the pure water.

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We were suprised to see snow still lingering, but after learning the average snow fall is 544 inches (44 feet) per year, it made sense.  I am sure this will be winter paradise in a few short months.  The air is clear, and the blue sky matches the water of the lake.  At this high altitude, it didn't take long to get a little color in our cheeks.

  After the tour, with fresh water in hand,  we hiked back up to the rim and began our trip around the rim.

  Crater Lake is a must see and we are grateful for the experience as this was a last minute decision to visit.