Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is located in the south-central part of Oregon in the western United States.  The park covers an area of 286.29 square miles (741.48 sq km).  Apart from historic sites, it is the only national park in the state.

Crater Lake has the distinction of being the deepest lake in the United States and the ninth deepest in the world.  That statistical significance along with the stunning landscapes that the crater creates made it a strong candidate as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of North America.

One of the most appealing aspects of the lake comes from its rich and vibrantly blue water combined with the various rust colors of the rugged rock walls.  It is an incredible contrast and complement of naturally occurring colors. The rim of crater lake has an elevation that ranges from 7,000 to 8,000 feet (2,100 to 2,400 m).

Mount Scott reaches a summit of 8,929 feet (2,722 m) and serves as the highest point in the national park.  If you adventure up the summit, it provides hikers on a clear day with a 100-mile view as well as a view of the entire caldera all at once.

The national park is comprised primarily of pine and fir trees.  In the late spring and summer months, wildflowers add to the serenity of the park’s beauty.

The natural draw of the park extends beyond the lake and surrounding wilderness.  Wildlife is another feature of the park that travelers hope to experience.  Popular species include badger, bear, beaver, bobcat, coyote, deer, elk, fox, different eagles and hawks, lynx, grouse, squirrels, and chipmunks.  There are several songbirds as well that complement the wildlife experiences.

The most popular activity is the Rim Drive around the lake.  The road travels 33-miles (53 km) around the caldera.  There are various stops along the way which provide some of the most spectacular picturesque landscapes of the lake, rugged caldera walls, and lake islands.