Just Wandering in July

It is hard to believe that our first 2 months at Heceta Head and Washburne Campground have come and gone.  There was so much to do there under the supervision of Art and Janette that we could not keep up to their speed and efficiency, but it was fun trying.  On Friday, July 4 we made an incredible trip up the Umpqua river from Reedsport on the coast to just north of Crater Lake. To reach the Lake we passed Diamond Lake and the stark Pumice Desert and then began to climb the volcano rim.

 The anticipation of catching that first glimpse of Crater Lake was too exciting.  And --- it is blue, blue, blue!

The next morning we drove the 33 mile scenic drive around the lake stopping at many of the overlooks and landscape features.  In spite of the crowded parking area at Sun Notch, we took the trail for views of the Phantom Ship.

 The trail was long enough that we only met folks here and there except at the best photo ops.  We found a short path to the rim edge and could see more of the rock bridge that originally connected the island.  It was a neat spot for a photo of my best traveling' buddy too!

Neither of us had thought much about how interesting the volcanic evidence in the area would be.  So we were eager to do more exploring away from the Big Blue Lake also.  Stay tuned for pictures of the next hike on the next blog.