Crater Lake National Park Oregon at Sunset Wizard Island, Watchman and Hillman Peaks
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Approximately 7,700 years ago, the Klamath people in what we now know as Oregon witnessed a cataclysmic explosion that became an important part of their oral history. Towering Mount Mazama collapsed in a dramatic volcanic eruption. In Klamath lore, the god of the heavens and the god of the underworld engaged in a fiery battle that resulted in the creation of Crater Lake. The deep blue lake is considered sacred by the Klamath people.
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Crater Lake holds the distinction of being the deepest lake in the United States and one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the world. Crater Lake is filled exclusively by rain and melted snow, which makes the water virtually free of pollutants. Visitors are often struck by the lake’s deep blue color and crystal-clear water, which offers miles of visibility.
One of Crater Lake’s most beloved attractions is a mountain hemlock log known as Old Man that bobs up and down in the water and travels slowly around the lake. Carbon dating states that Old Man is over 450 years old. Scientists speculate that Old Man’s longevity has something to do with Crater Lake’s frigid water temperature. No trip to Crater Lake is complete without scanning the water for Old Man, whose first documented sighting was in 1896.
Old Man of The Lake at Crater Lake
Photo by Flickr
Driving or taking a trolley tour that follows Rim Drive is an excellent way to gain a bird’s-eye view of Crater Lake, as well as the mountains and forests of Crater Lake National Park—which spans Crater Lake and some of the surrounding terrain. Crater Lake is surrounded by several breathtaking hiking trails that offer stunning views of the lake. Visitors can view vibrant wildflowers, lingering patches of snow even at the height of summer, and towering fir trees as they explore the trails that loop around Crater Lake.
Photo by depositphotos.com
If you’re interested in swimming, Cleetwood Cove is the best spot to access the waters of Crater Lake. The water temperature is generally chilly, but cool water can be refreshing on a hot day. Cleetwood Cove is also the meeting point for ranger-guided boat tours. A tour company called Explore Crater Lake offers a handful of boat tours, including a trip to Crater Lake’s rugged Wizard Island.
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