Where are you going in 2026?

[JohnC]

Crater Lake is amazing, to be sure!

Waldo is about half the size, and both are in similar surroundings in the Cascades range. Both have exceptionally clear water, in part because neither have inlet streams carrying organic debris. That makes for beautiful color, my Waldo drone footage was just after sunrise, stills showed an amazing sunset over the western shore.

Use of Crater Lake itself is heavily restricted… no swimming, no boating, I think they’ve discontinued the tour boat service. Like all popular national parks it is *heavily* used, but you can get away from the crowds on the hiking trails… and winter is incredible!

Both are must-see. Camping is very limited at CL, Waldo is one of the chain of the Cascade Lakes which are all in National Forest adjoining wilderness areas, lots of seasonal recreation!

In 2011 I went to Oregon with a cycling club for a week of cycling around Eugene. On the way home I went by Crater Lake. I only had a couple of hours to spare but I did manage to do some walking around. I was amazed by the color of the water. I took some pretty poor photos. Here's a couple of the better ones.

 

[dustinp]

We had a family reunion in Seaside, OR about 14 yrs ago, then went down to Crater Lake after, and were amazed at its beauty. They were still running the sightseeing boat at that time. We could see it from the scenic drive around the lake, but weren't able to take the time to board it ourselves since we were still working and had to get back across half the country in just a few days.

 

[Campdrifter]

Your pictures are awesome. After reading your plans, I’m officially inspired and have been scrolling around on the map ever since.