12 Stops Along the Pacific Crest Trail

Crater Lake National Park

Cheryl writes that her first sight of Oregon's Crater Lake was one of disbelief. The lake, which is ringed by towering cliffs and considered sacred by some Native Americans, is so deep and pure, the color is intensely blue. The depths absorb almost all natural light, making this wonder look like a pool of ink. Wizard Island, a small volcano named for its resemblance to a witch's hat, rises out of the lake.