Crater Lake
Seeing mysterious Wizard Island floating in the impossibly deep water (1,963 ft) of this sleeping volcano, all of it highlighted with the whitest snow, was literally more than we could comprehend. We just kept looking at each other with mouths wide open, as if to say, “Are you seeing this too? Can you believe this?” So yes, the views alone are worth it along the scenic Rim Drive, but don’t miss the chance to get out and explore some of its 183,000 acres on foot along more than 90 miles of hiking trails. (Visit in early September if at all possible, because…wow! But bring a warm jacket.)
