Sunset on Wizard Island, Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake is an amazing and beautiful place. I have visited the lake many times and even camped there a few times. But, I had never been in winter, until the other day. Wow! I was aware that the road is usually plowed and that the park is open year-round, but had never made the trek up there in the snow. And, speaking of snow, there is a lot of it! The walls on the side of the road left by the plows were an average of six to eight feet high. In some places, well over ten feet. I never imagined it would be so deep. What a monumental task it must be just to keep the access road open. And I’m so glad they do. There are a limited number of places on the rim to view the lake when the snow is so deep, but the visitor center offers snowshoe rentals for those who are more adventurous.

If you have never visited Crater Lake, I highly recommend it. Formed in the crater left by the explosion of an ancient volcano, the lake is renowned for the deep blue color of the water. With an average depth of over 1000 feet and a maximum depth of nearly 2000 feet, it is one of the deepest lakes in the western hemisphere. It is a place of beauty and mystery, with many stories and legends, such as this one. It is ironic that Crater Lake was discovered accidentally by those searching for treasure, since it is a treasure unto itself.

Deep Blue Crater

Evening Peace at Crater Lake

It was a great day and well worth the drive. I think I found Zen, again.