Crater Lake, Oregon
Crater lake was first discovered by a prospector named John Hillman in 1853. he and his mule literally stumbled upon it.
Those who know these things, proclaim that this lake partly fills a nearly 2,148-foot deep caldera that was formed around 7,700 years ago by the collapse of the volcano Mount Mazama.
Crater Lake – The deepest Lake in the United States at 1941 feet
The island called Wizard Island is best viewed from the Watchman overlook trail or from Discovery Point.
We planned to stay at the Mazama Village but when we inquired about a reservation they told us the campground was closing for the season. We could have stayed one night there, then would have to move. Upon checking out the Annie Creek Sno Park we realized that would have been a good option. But our friends Mike and Marilyn have a home in Chiloquin, OR and they invited us to stay in their driveway. They had just left for the CragARang at Charleston Harbor. So thats where we stayed and it was a short trip to the Lake from there.
Crater Lake, The Bluest Lake I have ever seen. It’s the Deepest lake in the United States at a depth of 1943 Feet and just under 5 miles across
The view of “Phantom Ship” is best viewed from the short hike at Sun Notch or from the Phantom ship Overlook. This island is as tall as a 16 story building.
The rim drive is 33 miles and it encircles the lake. Plan on 2 – 3 hours to make the trip. But if you like to photograph or hike just plan on the whole day. Plan on two days if you hike down to the lake to swim.
The Lodge at Crater lake
Along the East Rim road there is a detour of around 6 miles to the Pinnacles Overlook. Be sure to take this 12 mile round trip. There is a short .08 mile hike from the parking lot.
The pinnacles are colorful spires 100 feet tall that you will see from above. Volcanic gases once rose up through a layer of volcanic ash cementing the ash into solid rock.
Wanna Touch the Water? You can from one spot on the lake. Be ready for a steep trail down about 1.1 miles (feels like 5 miles coming out of there) It was very hot on this day. Take plenty water along.
This is the only place you are allowed to swim in Crater lake. Well, it is the Only place you have access to the lake at all. You can schedule a boat tour here during the summer season. It is so Clear and the deepest Blue you have ever seen. and Oh did I mention COLD? Only standard swimsuits are allowed, the sign said. I don’t know what they mean by that. Does it mean no skimpy suit Or does it just mean no Birthday suits.. I’m not sure.
Several people were dropping into the chilly waters while we were there but i noticed they didn’t stay in more than a few seconds.
And our new friend Derek took a pose and then jumped off the rock where I was standing. I took about 50 images as he headed into the deep blue. Here’s a few shots.
Since our RV friends Mike and Marilyn graciously gave us permission to camp out in their driveway It gave us a chance to hang out on the shore of Agency Lake. Located west of Chiloquin, Oregon. It is actually an arm of the Upper Klamath Lake. I had fun watching and photographing the birds that were floating by.
