Jonathan Miske/Flickr Creative Commons
Oregon in the summer is one of the most beautiful places in America. I don’t care where you’re from, if you like being outside and surrounded by gorgeous natural scenery then Oregon is the place for you! One of the most breathtaking sights in Oregon is Crater Lake.
Located in south central Oregon near the California border, Crater Lake can be accessed from I-5. I suppose the easiest way to the Lake is to take Hwy 62 north out of Medford until you reach the park entrance. If you’re coming from the east, take 97 south from Bend or 97 north from Klamath Falls until it intersects Hwy 62. Turn west on 62 and follow it until you reach the park entrance.
Crater Lake is an old volcanic crater with a lake in the middle of it. The lake is the deepest in the United States at over 1900 feet in depth, and oddly enough is the ONLY National Park in the State or Oregon! When you arrive at the park, there is a road that goes around the rim of the lake (and it is a wonderful hike if a little disorienting). Think about it, you’re going in a 33 mile long circle and the only real way to tell where you are is by the position of Wizard Island down on the lake.
Speaking of Wizard Island, you can actually visit the island during the summer months by taking one of the frequent boat tours around the lake. If you want to actually explore the island you’ll need to take one of the early boats and be ready to spend a good portion of the day on the island as well, because boats will only come to the dock for pickup if there is room aboard.
Crater Lake is one of those Wonders Of The World, so if you find yourself in the neighborhood, it is well worth the time to go and see it! If you find yourself wandering around the internet, please swing by PPL Motorhomes.com and say howdy!