Crater Lake Rim Drive

I was really excited about driving around the rim of Crater Lake.  The last time we visited this national park was in June, 2010.  At that time, there had been a blizzard the day we arrived, and altho the weather cleared the following day, we only got to see one small portion of the park.  The road around the rim was under between 8 – 12 feet of snow!!  This wasn’t just from the blizzard the day before, but from the entire winter season.  So, this time when there was no snow, it was a great drive!

 

I never knew this little island existed – it’s called Phantom Ship.  If you look at it, it is sort of shaped like a ship.  It’s called Phantom because from the main portion of the park, you can’t see this tiny island.  It’s hidden behind Wizard Island.  It is a really pretty island, and actually isn’t all that small – it’s about as tall as a 16 story building.

 

I had to include this image – I truly believe the reflections in the water of the surrounding coastline make this look sort of surreal, but this is how it really looked.  I think the clarity of the water played a part in this as well.  I just love it.

 

There’s an area on the drive that’s a bit away from the lake, but that has these formations called The Pinnacles.  They are made up of volcanic ash, and it’s very cool the way they just sort of rise up from the ground.

 

This is a view of what is called The Castle.  It’s a natural formation along the shore of the lake.  It’s interesting to see how the color is so different from the surrounding rocks and ash.

 

And finally, here’s a wide view of Crater Lake.  The blue of the lake is really incredible and I love the cloud reflection in it.  The little boat in the lake is that one tour boat that’s allowed on the lake.

Enjoy!