Crater Lake
- Oregon
photo: National Park Service
Why go there?
Crater Lake is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the United States. Native Americans witnessed its formation 7,700 years ago, when a violent eruption triggered the collapse of a tall peak. Scientists marvel at its purity—fed by rain and snow, it’s the deepest lake in the US and one of the most pristine on Earth. It's a magnet for artists, photographers and sightseers. Weather permitting, in the summer you can take a boat tour to Wizard Island, the tantalizing oasis jutting out of the lake.
