Natural Wonder of Crater Lake National Park
By Valerie Mellema
Crater Lake is one of the natural wonders of the United States. Formed from a cataclysmic implosion of a volcano crater, Mount Mazama and it has long attracted the wonder of visitors from all over the world. With a depth of 1,943 feet, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, and the seventh deepest in the world. The lake’s fresh water is some of the clearest found anywhere in the world.
Crater Lake National Park is located in the Southern region of Oregon on the crest of the Cascade Mountain range. The lake is a water collection that lies inside a volcano caldera that was created when the 12,000 foot high Mount Mazama collapsed 7,700 years ago, following a large volcanic eruption. The lake gets generous amounts of winter snow that averages 533 inches per year which supplies the lake with its water and there are no inlets or outlets to the lake.
This region sees little break from winter weather and snow, and for a brief time each year, Crater Lake National Park emerges from winter hibernation to bask in the brief summertime glory. The long winters and brief summers keep a generous amount of snow long into mid year and most park roads remain closed into the late spring.
However, when the brief summer hits this area, it’s beautiful. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping and fishing, but temperatures can be unpredictable so it’s important to be prepared. While the days may be warm, the temperature can drop to freezing at night. July, August and September are the best months for warmer weather and less rain and snow. The early part of October a little cooler, but still enjoys sunny days before the start of winter arrives by mid-month.
Crater Lake National Park features more than 90 miles of hiking trails and are divided into four categories: easy, moderate, difficult, and strenuous. Trails listed as strenuous should only be attempted by those in good physical condition. You can see breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding area from the Pacific Crest Trail that passes through Crater Lake National Park.
For information on campground and lodging reservations, check with the park to find out about park closures and projected season openings.
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