Crater Lake was established in 1902, making it the fifth oldest National Park in the United States. It is also Oregon’s only National Park. The lake is a water-filled caldera (remnants of an extinct, collapsed volcano). Crater lake is 1,949 feet deep, making it the deepest lake in the United States, and the ninth deepest in the world. As of just a few days ago, the entire rim drive is finally open for the season, meaning there are numerous opportunities for beautiful lake views. We drove East Rim Drive, making our first stop at Sun Notch. The trail is just under a mile loop, with spectacular views of the lake, its two islands, and undulations of pollen drifting with the breeze.
Plaikni Falls Trail is just another few miles down the road. It is a popular two mile out and back, although we were there early enough so we didn’t have to share the experience with more than a few people. Due to the pools of water below the falls, and its continuous production of mist, the end of the trail is full of wildflowers, butterflies, and toddler toes.
Our last stop was Pinnacles Overlook, which is literally what we did. We looked over at the pumice pinnacles, eroded from the walls of a steep canyon. They are some of the narrowest erosional features in the West.
This is our second trip to Crater Lake. It was a much different experience in summer than in winter, although both have their merits. It is just a question of snowshoe or shorts.
We were there last summer but did not do the Falls hike. I love those flowers and the toddler toes. What a spectacular place. I laughed at the “snowshoes or shorts” comment. You really have seen Crater Lake at its extremes. Which do you like better? What fun. Thanks for sharing.
I guess the falls hike is becoming quite popular. But the early bird always gets the worm!
Outstanding photos, and not because blue is my favorite color!
It is a beautiful color! And thank you!