Crater Lake National Park in central Oregon is a volcano-made natural wonder with some of the bluest, cleanest water and clearest vistas anyone could see anywhere in the U.S. It was established in 1902 and is open year-round. With over 446,000 visitors last year, it is something of a secret, though only in comparison to the more than 70 national parks, monuments and historic sites that get more than a million visitors each year.
For mature tourists, Crater Lake is a perfect retreat and a sightseeing bonanza. Sitting at 7,000 feet, it is surrounded by pine forests and provides views of mountain peaks throughout the northwest. There is a 33-mile road around the rim of the park with numerous overlooks that allow drivers and cyclists to see its shimmering, still water, its massive cliffs and its strange little islands and landmarks.
Drive, Hike, Take Trolley, or Bike Around Crater Lake
For those who would rather not drive, a trolley with a ranger on board now tours the rim road for two hours several times a day for a fee, operating from July through mid-October. There is also a daily boat trip, although access is via a hiking trail that is quite steep.
The lake is filled by rain and snow – no rivers or streams feed it. Over 7,700 years ago it took shape when a 12,000 foot volcano, Mount Mazama, erupted and then collapsed, created a caldera that gradually filled with water. Wizard Island, a cinder cone in one corner of the lake, was created by a later eruption.
Active travelers are certain to enjoy the hiking trails, which range from a half mile long to 11 miles. Anglers can try to catch one of the lake’s trout of salmon, two species that were introduced to the lake many years ago. (It originally contained no fish at all.)
Crater Lake's Location and Mosquitoes
The two major drawbacks to Crater Lake are its distance from major population centers and its mosquitoes. It is about 250 miles from Portland and, 422 from Seattle, and about 450 from San Francisco. Groups visiting the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, however, are only 90 miles away by scenic highways, while Bend is 116 miles away.
As for the mosquitoes, they apparently are native to the park. Because the hundreds of inches of snow that falls during the winter on Crater Lake takes a long time to recede, it somehow attracts hordes of pesky mosquitoes in the early summer, a wildlife extravaganza that is not mentioned in park literature. Bring plenty of insect repellent – these mosquitoes bite right through clothes.
Lodging within the park is available by advance reservation at the historic Crater Lake Lodge. The main campground has hookups and space for RVs as long as 50 feet, as well as for tents.
Grace Lichtenstein - I prefer "seasoned" to "senior" but whatever term you use, I have been an outdoor adventurer for most of my adult years. I am a cycling ...
