Crater Lake Part Two

Our new found hobby of snowshoeing led us back to Crater Lake to experience the beautiful scenery in its winter format. We were uncertain if the weather would cooperate or if we would even be able to drive to the rim, but our good weather luck followed us and it was an amazing day. The road to the rim had been closed for the previous 9 days, but magically opened about 45 minutes after we got there, saving us a very long and difficult hike to see the lake. The rangers told us there was 25 - 30 feet of snow throughout the park...all unpacked and unhiked on since the 9 new feet of snowfall over the past week. Basically that means I have never worked so hard on a hike in my life. Even with snowshoes on, it was slow going and a lot of work. But so beautiful and so worth it. The rangers told us to "follow the road" and that there were road signs along the trail that would keep us on track. Well this was really the only sign we found. Not too useful. So we just tried to steer clear of the edge, pay attention to where we were going, and prayed for no avalanches.The lake was mostly covered in haze when we started, but eventually it started to clear. It was incredibly beautiful. We were so thrilled that we got to see the bright blue lake.

Wizard Island Loving our beautiful day.

Proof that we were exhausted by the end of our trek. But no complaints it was absolutely beautiful. We love Crater Lake and feel lucky to have seen it now in both summer and winter. It is one of the most incredible places we have ever been. This was the perfect end to a much needed vacation.