Crater Lake - Mosquito Heaven

A swarm of mosquitoes closed in for the kill the minute we stepped out of our car at the Mazama Village Campground. Whilst swatting and waving, we desperately sought what was to become our best friend over the next few days, DEET! Only with this deep woods, long lasting protection insect repellent sprayed from head to toe (and more - I actually got bitten on the butt) we were able to set up camp.

The next thing we were not expecting but thankfully were prepared for, was the cold. It got down to the freezing mark overnight...brrr! Mid summer too. The days were glorious., high 70's, clear skies.


We indulged in the campfire delicacies, burgers and much to the kids delight, smores!

The next morning afforded us hot tea, porridge, toast and more smores before we set off on our adventure. After an informative movie about the creation of the lake at the Rim Village visitor center, we set off on our 33 mile Crater Rim drive. The first stop was Sun Notch Trail where we hiked for .4 mile to the cliff peak which overlooked Chaski Bay.

View at the end of the Sun Notch Trail

A little west of this point, we were able to get a great view back to Wizard Island.

Wizard Island

We hiked a little further up the hill where an opening between trees gave us the most perfect view of the Phantom Ship. It looks like a small pirate ship but is made up of erosion-resistant rock and is as tall as a 16 storey building!

Phantom Ship

A slight detour down a 7 mile spur road took us to the Pinnacles. 100 foot tall spires that are being eroded from the canyon wall. The spires are "fossil fumaroles" which mark the individual places volcanic gas had risen up through the hot ash, cementing them into solid rock.

The Pinnacles

 Our final destination before heading back was to see the Pumice Castle, a colorful layer of orange pumice rock that over the space of time has eroded into a castle or a four humped camel which ever you prefer. Curious!

Pumice Castle

Although bear are living near our campsite, we were not lucky enough to spot any, much to Caitlin's dismay. She was eager to spot wildlife and we went on a couple of wildlife walks but the only creature that we came across was this inquisitive bird. If you happen to know it's name, let us know.

Time to head back to civilization for The Beilby's.