Mt Mazama OR 97604

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R. Scherer

Mount Mazama is filled with a great amount of history: from its massively violent past to the most stunningly blue tranquil waters of Crater Lake (created after its collapse into the caldera), this area is a true masterpiece, created by Mother Nature and shaped by Father Time. In its glory, Mount Mazama stood 12000 feet tall and was worshiped by the Native Americans that called this place home. Post eruption, it was cut down to 8157 feet, that today is the rim above its crown jewel, Crater Lake, which holds the title of deepest freshwater lake in the United States at 1943' deep. Its only source of water comes from rain and snow melt, and the pumice stone layer of the Caldera acts as an overflow drain, like in a bathtub. The water in the lake is such a stunning brilliant blue that it doesn't look real. The name Mount Mazama, a Native American word, means mountain goat, and Crater Lake is called Giiwas in the Native language of the Klamath tribes. Mount Mazama still exists today. All that's left technically is its base, and Crater Lake is a result of its collapse. They are two totally different geological features. The base of Mount Mazama is still here, and Crater Lake resides in Mount Mazams' caldera. As always, leave no trace, leave it better than you found it, and enjoy ?!

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Rick Briggs

Crater Lake, formerly known as Mazama before it blew its lid, it a great visit. The deep blue waters of this 1943 ft deep caldera is a sight to behold. If you visit the south rim you will be welcomed with stunning views, a tourist shop with a Cafe and great signage describing all aspects of the park history. Make sure you get to the overlook near the visitor station for some of the best views. There is a reconstructed hotel from 1923 for visitors who want to stay at the rim. We took the trolley car tour around the rim to take advantage of additional narrative the guide provided. Worth the 20 or so bucks. The park does have an admission of $30 per car. Check weather before making the journey to the park as the season is short.

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Paul-Porter Brown

Crater Lake is probably my absolute favorite place to go when I need to completely disconnect. It's beautiful, it's truly awe inspiring, and it offers so many vantage points along the rim and down in the boat to gain a completely different perspective, not just on crater Lake, but on the power that our planet has been shaping itself and thus shaping us.