Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park, in Southern Oregon, is a rare and breathtaking natural wonder. The lake was created almost 8,000 years ago when the collapse of the Mt. Mazama volcano formed a 6 mile wide volcanic basin. Melted snowfall filled the basin with freshwater and Crater Lake was born.

At nearly 2,000 feet deep Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States. An impressive 20 mile ring of cliffs encloses the basin and adds to the magnificence of the lake.

Crater Lake National Park, located among the Cascade Mountain Range, is a remarkable and beautiful site. It is well worth the visit on any exploration of the American Northwest.

—Caroline Griffith

crla.jpg

State:

Oregon

Acreage:

183224.05

Category:

National Park

Established:

05/22/1902

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WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Barrybenjamin

November 10, 2011

I love Crater Lake NP. It is a breathtaking view once you get to the 'rim'. I was there on June 7, 2008 and was greeted by snow on the ground of over a foot deep. It is a must see in anyone's lifetime.

Medivacpilot

November 10, 2011

Oregons only National Park and by far a must see location. A winter wonderland and a summer delight. Whether you bicycle, or motorcycle around the rim of this creater you will never see another set of unique images anywhere else in the United States.

Cherie

November 10, 2011

A local, I try to get to Crater as often as possible, usually bringing friends and family, amazing them. Was just there 2 weeks ago and, although the temp was in the high 70's--t-shirt/sandal weather, there were still large patches of snow! And mosquitoes! That's a new one for me--take lots of repellent. The trails are excellent, the view can't be beat. The water is crystal clear however there were also large swirls of yellow on the surface--pollen! The water is so clear that rocks that appear only a few feet below are actually a hundred feet from the surface. Sorry--no private boats alloweed... no scuba diving. You hike down to take a private launch to Wizard Island--the hike back up to the rim is a killer! But worth it. If you haven't been there, put it on your life list of places you want to visit!

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