When in Crater Lake ...

 Going to Crater Lake at the end of June was a concerning plan. When scheduling our trip, we knew that we wanted to stop at Crater Lake, but we had absolutely no idea why. We didn't know just how big the lake was, or how stunning the mountains looked from the Rim Drive, or to expect almost all the hikes to be closed due to the threat of avalanches. But we all know the saying ,"when in Crater Lake.."

On our first day, we got going from the Redwoods around 5:30 in the morning, and started trucking up to Oregon! There, we learned about a unique check-in procedure which involved us waiting until 2 to hopefully get a spot at their campground. In line, we met some incredible ladies who were all well-versed in being on the road! They told us what to expect for levels of snow in the campground, what hikes they recommend, and advice for road tripping! After learning of our travel itinerary, they shared advice for other National Parks too! So I guess, when in Crater Lake, talk to the people you're in line with?

After getting our assignment, mazama campground A2, we hopped back in the car to drive the Rim Road and check out a visitor center! The Rim Drive is nothing short of spectacular! Winding up to the remnant of a massive volcano (which imploded long ago), you can see other mountain ranges in the far off distance, beautiful trees, birds and so much snow! At the top, you drive around the rim of the huge Crater Lake and the two islands which inhabit the lake; Phantom Ship, and Wizard Island. We drove around the rim until we couldn't drive any further. The road was closed for snow removal. But you know what they say; when in Crater Lake, be prepared for snow? 

On our way back, from the Rim, we stopped by the visitor center to ask some questions and get some well-needed advice! The visitor center is a really cool building with a long corridor for an entrance which we understand to be defense against the cold. Inside, people crowded the visitor center, as usual. We hopped in line to ask the rangers some questions! When it was our turn, we heard some unfortunate news: all of the hikes are closed. 

There are a couple of avalanche-prone zones which they are pleading people not to go near. Even more, the hike down to the lake had a rock slide days prior! The ranger told us that if we did want to do any hikes, we can walk along the road past the "road closed" sign until stopped by the construction workers, about 2 miles each way she estimated. Sounds good. When in Crater Lake, walk along the road. 

We can make that happen. The next morning was incredibly slow, we tried to get out of bed as late as possible because we had 2 whole days at Crater and a total of 4 miles to hike. We strolled, chit chatted with a line-neighbor from the day prior, then drove up the Rim drive again, ready to walk ! 

Our 30 minute drive ended with us at the end of the road, asking rangers in yellow vests if we could walk the suggested 2 miles. 

"No can do, maybe you could've yesterday evening, but the roads completely closed today." 

We hopped back in the car and did a bit more sight seeing before going back to camp. 

There, we tried to get into whittling wood and word puzzles! The next day was admittedly more of the same. We wish that we could present an experience that is cool, exciting, and dramatic, but we really can't! We truly love the park, it's beauty is incomparable, but we didn't do much of anything except chit chat and ask a lot of questions. 

So while we can't tell you what to do when in Crater Lake, what we can say is this; when in August, go to Crater Lake.