I drove to Ashland, Oregon from Los Angeles this June, and decided to visit Crater Lake National Park for the first time. I wasn’t disappointed. Amazing blue water in the midst of a mountain that blew its top nearly 7,700 years ago. It filled with water over time and another volcanic island called, “Wizard Island,” formed inside.
Oregon’s only national park is a mere two hour drive from Medford in Southern Oregon and well worth the trip. I was lucky enough to score a modest, but pricey, room at the historic Crater Lake Lodge, which is currently celebrating its 100th year. My room overlooked the lake, in theory, but I couldn’t see the actual water unless I went into the Great Room or outside. Still, a remarkable trip.
Right now, there’s less snow than usual – ah climate change; although there was still too much to drive the entire rim. So, I hiked a bit and the next day drove partially around the lake. I’m not big on heights, so the perspective of being so high from the water is quite daunting. And, as I drove along the western rim, I was actually glad I didn’t get to drive the entire rim. I did stop at the closest overlook to Wizard Island and it was incredible.
I continued along the road out of the northern entrance to the park towards the smaller Diamond Lake and then towards Highway 138, the Highway of Waterfalls. Stopped and hiked in fern-laden green forests amidst several waterfalls. It was hot, nearly 100 degrees at times, so I continued on towards Roseburg, then south along Highway 5 to my favorite southern Oregon town of Ashland.
Travel, Cuisine and Spas 