Crater Lake

It was a short drive to Crater Lake NP, but a long wait to enter. While waiting we marveled at the piles of dead pine and spruce debris — we assume to be burned when all is wet from snow.

We drove south along the west side of the lake as the east rim road is closed for renovation. At the first place to pull off, we walked up the steep side of the crater to the rim. We were greeted with a spectacular site of deep blue water surrounded by gray rocks with green trees. No matter how many pictures you have seen or stories you have been told, that view amazes.

As for pictures, David took many and as we stopped at each lookout, we looked for the place where David, his sister Liz, and mother had sat in 1953. In seventy years, the lake hasn’t changed much, but David has.

We found our campsite (F2) in Mazama Campground. A nice, private site with picnic table, bear proof box, and fire ring. There are electric and water sites and hot showers at various places in the campground. After settling in, David opened the bear box to discover Andrew had left us brownies and beer as a welcoming gift.

The rest of the family is off on adventures before returning home. Emily and Eric spent an unplanned night in Phoenix as their Phoenix to Madison flight had equipment problems so the airline gave them a hotel room and meal vouchers. Steven and family are backpacking. After a day and night at Crater Lake, Andrew and family with Jabran and family are on the coast after visiting Mt. Garfield on the way. Amanda and Brian made it to Iceland, but their bags did not. Hope they make it today.

-- Janet (text) and David (photos)