Introduction
Wow, yesterday we found ourselves on the coast of Oregon, facing wildfires and poor air quality. We made a quick decision to wrap up our coastal trip and head to Crater Lake National Park for clearer skies. In this blog post, we’ll take you through our experiences at Crater Lake National Park, including some hidden gems and unique insights that you might not know about.
Exploring Crater Lake National Park
We stumbled upon an amazing free campsite just 15 minutes away from the park, where we enjoyed a delicious pancake breakfast to kick off our day. Despite the challenges posed by the wildfires, we were determined to make the most of our visit to this special place.
Discovering the Beauty of Crater Lake
Upon arriving at our first viewpoint of Crater Lake, we were left speechless by the stunning blue waters and the solitude of the surroundings. Learning about the formation of the lake, its depth, and the unique ecosystem within the park made our visit even more special.
Exploring the Rim and Beyond
We embarked on the famous 30-mile loop around the rim of the crater, taking in breathtaking views and even contemplating a cliff jump along the way. The lack of crowds due to the timing of our visit added to the charm of the experience.
Sunrise and Cliff Jumping
Watching the sunrise over Crater Lake was a magical experience, setting the stage for an adventurous day that included cliff jumping into the deep blue waters. The clarity and depth of the lake made it a unique and exhilarating activity.
Unexpected Luxuries
Thanks to a thoughtful gesture from a family member, we unexpectedly found ourselves staying in a hotel near the park, offering a comfortable respite from our usual van life. Despite the evacuation orders due to the wildfires, we appreciated the kindness and the chance to relax in a different setting.
Reflections and Departure
Leaving Crater Lake was bittersweet, as we were saddened by the impact of the wildfires and the uncertainty surrounding our next destination. Despite the challenges, we cherished the moments spent at this remarkable national park and hoped for better days ahead.
Related Questions
1. What precautions did you take before cliff jumping into Crater Lake’s deep waters?
Before cliff jumping, we checked for rocks below the jump point to ensure safety. Additionally, we brought along waterproof phone cases for filming and protection.
2. How did the lack of crowds enhance your experience at Crater Lake National Park?
The absence of crowds allowed us to fully appreciate the beauty and serenity of the park, especially during a time when social distancing was crucial.
3. What was the significance of staying in a hotel near Crater Lake during your visit?
Staying in a hotel provided a welcome break from our usual van life and allowed us to relax and recharge, despite the challenges posed by the wildfires and evacuation orders.
4. How did the sunrise over Crater Lake set the tone for your day of exploration and adventure?
Watching the sunrise created a magical atmosphere and inspired us to make the most of our day, including engaging in activities like cliff jumping and hiking.
5. What emotions did you experience when departing from Crater Lake National Park?
We felt a mix of sadness at leaving this beautiful place, concern for the impact of the wildfires, and uncertainty about our next destination. Despite the challenges, we cherished the memories made at Crater Lake.