Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States at a depth of 1,943 feet. People are drawn to the intense blue color that changes as the sun moves across the sky. One can drive or bike around the lake along the road, hike up to see the lake from above, or take a boat ride to Wizard Island. The park road is only open about three months (late June/early July into September). The area has an average snowfall of about 40 feet! You can enjoy the scenery in the winter by cross-country skis and snowshoes.
To take the boat ride around the lake and to Wizard Island, you have to walk down to the lake's edge. It is interesting to hike below the rim into a volcano!The main campground for the park is a few miles away from the lake. It is in a wooded area. It opens when all the snow melts. We were there over Labor Day weekend and had to break a thin sheet of ice off the tent in the morning. It can be cold! There is a historic lodge right next to the lake. Make reservations months in advance.
There are a few hikes in the area. One is to the Watchman Overlook with views of Wizard Island and the lake. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) also goes through the park. This is a great trail for backpacking.
There are also interesting rock formations called the Pinnacles. They remind me of the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon.
For more National Park information on Crater Lake, go the the NPS website.
