At 592 meters / 1,943 feet deep, Crater Lake is known as the deepest lake in the States. But apart from that, I’m pretty sure it’s one of the bluest ones too! It almost hurts the eyes from time to time, that’s how intense its blue colour scheme is.
The lake – also nicknamed Lake Majesty – doesn’t have any other direct water sources than the rain or snow. This basically means that no sediments or minerals are being carried into the lake, helping it being one of the clearest lakes. I was quite surprised that despite all of this pristineness you’re still allowed to swim in it. Though you might not be able to stay for long in the water as it’s usually freakishly cold..
Crater Lake has been established as a national park in 1902, making it the 6th NP in the States. The crater is certainly huge and created out of the cataclysmic volcanic eruption of Mount Mazama. Estimated is that Mazama erupted some 8000 years ago – eventually forming Crater Lake by blowing off its top.
That must have been quite something. Impressively enough, the area was already inhabited at the time by the Makalak tribe. Over time their witness’ stories of the eruption survived (they considered it being an intense battle between the spirit of the sky and the spirit of the mountain), showing us centuries later that people have actually witnessed this enormous explosion.
Not just the crater, the lake and its inner volcano islands are all very impressive, but the mountainous terrain around the crater has quite a lot to offer too. Did you know for example that the Pacific Crest Trail leads right along it? Yep, that’s the one of the famous ‘Wild’ book and movie. In the upcoming article I’ll tell you what trails are cool to hike and where you for sure must pullover for a scenic view.
And for now some deep-blue slices that will make you want to jump into Crater Lake too!
