Crater Lake National Park

The park was smokey, but the
blue in the lake still came
out very well

Our main purpose of this Southern Oregon trip was fulfilled today. We saw the state's only national park, which could be the most beautiful in the nation. Despite 50 degree temperatures, smoke from wildfires only 30 miles away, and a long wait at a construction zone, the trip was completely worth it. We first saw a video in the Visitor's Center that was about how the lake was the remains of a destroyed volcano. We then ate a fabulous lunch at the lodge and then drove east on the rim drive. There were several spots where we were right by a drop-off, but it was worth the views of the lake and the mountains in the opposite direction. Afterwards, we hiked to the top of "Watchman Peak," which presented a panoramic view of the lake and of the high mountains in the area. It was hard to say goodbye to this incredible place, and we left for a long drive to a drive-in burger place and then to Newberg.      

On top of Watchman Peak

                  

                                              
More Impressive Scenery from the park:

  

Crater Lake's dramatic
shoreline

               

Wizard Island is a growing
volcano