Oregon, a state renowned for its majestic and diverse natural beauty, is a dream destination for those who love ecotourism and outdoor exploration. It boasts not only a poetic Pacific coastline and vast, lush green forests, but also stunning national parks, each with its own unique charm. Among them, Crater Lake National Park stands out like a sparkling sapphire gem, attracting visitors from all over the world. But Oregon has much more to offer. Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel Around the World) to discover the most remarkable national parks in Oregon, where you can immerse yourself in pristine nature and enjoy unforgettable experiences.
Crater Lake National Park: Oregon’s Sapphire Gem
Established in 1902, Crater Lake National Park is Oregon’s only national park and one of the oldest in the United States. The park’s highlight is Crater Lake, a deep lake formed in the caldera of the collapsed Mount Mazama volcano. With a depth of nearly 600 meters, Crater Lake is not only the deepest lake in the United States but also the second deepest in North America and the ninth deepest in the world.
The Miraculous Formation of Crater Lake
Approximately 7,700 years ago, a cataclysmic volcanic eruption caused the summit of Mount Mazama to collapse, creating a massive caldera. Over time, rain and melted snow filled this caldera, forming Crater Lake with its distinctive sapphire blue color, unbelievably pure. The lake is fed entirely by rainwater and snow, with no rivers or streams flowing into it, which contributes to its clarity and unique color.
Exploring the Beauty of Crater Lake
Visiting Crater Lake National Park, you will be overwhelmed by the pristine and magnificent beauty of nature.
Admire Crater Lake from Rim Village: Rim Village is the central area of the park, where tourist facilities and stunning viewpoints are concentrated. From here, you can admire the panoramic view of Crater Lake with its azure waters reflecting the sky, along with Wizard Island rising from the lake like a sorcerer’s hat.
Panoramic view of Crater Lake from Rim Village with Wizard Island rising from the blue lake
Take a boat trip to Wizard Island: Wizard Island is a small island formed from a cinder cone volcano after the major eruption. Visitors can take a boat trip from Cleetwood Cove to Wizard Island to explore the small volcanic crater at the top of the island and enjoy the lake view from a unique perspective.
Hike along Rim Drive: Rim Drive is a road encircling the caldera, about 53 km long, with many scenic stops. You can drive or hike a portion of Rim Drive to explore popular attractions such as Discovery Point, Sinnott Memorial Overlook, and Phantom Ship Overlook.
Discover Phantom Ship: Phantom Ship is a small natural rock formation that resembles a ghost ship sailing on the lake’s surface. The image of Phantom Ship appearing in the mist or under the moonlight creates a mysterious and enchanting scene.
Enjoy outdoor activities: Crater Lake National Park is not only a place for sightseeing but also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go hiking on many different trails, from easy paths around the lake to challenging mountain climbs. In winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, attracting skiers and winter sports enthusiasts.
Travel Tips for Crater Lake National Park
- Ideal time to visit: Summer (July – September) is the best time to visit Crater Lake, when the weather is warm and roads and trails are fully open. Autumn is also an excellent choice with vibrant fall foliage colors.
- Preparation: Bring warm clothing, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike.
- Accommodation booking: Accommodation within the park is limited, especially during peak season. Book in advance if you want to stay overnight. Alternatively, there are many hotel and motel options in nearby towns like Klamath Falls and Medford.
- Altitude awareness: Crater Lake is located at an altitude of over 2,000 meters above sea level. Some visitors may experience altitude sickness, especially upon arrival. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities on the first day.
Expanding Your Journey: National Parks Near Oregon
Beyond Crater Lake National Park, Oregon is also a gateway to explore other wonderful national parks in the Pacific Northwest region.
Redwood National and State Parks
Although primarily located in California, Redwood National Park extends into southern Oregon. It is famous for its giant redwood trees, the tallest in the world, with lifespans of thousands of years. Stepping into the Redwood forest, you will feel small before these “giants” of nature and experience a sense of being in a fairy-tale world.
Redwood Highlights:
- Chandelier Tree: A special redwood tree with a large opening at its base, big enough for cars to drive through. This is a unique and interesting tourist attraction.
- Trees of Mystery: A privately-owned park along Highway 101, displaying redwood trees with bizarre shapes and sculptures of Paul Bunyan, a famous folklore character in American culture.
- Tall Trees Grove: Home to the tallest redwood trees in the world. To reach this grove, you need a special permit and prepare for a relatively strenuous hike, but the reward is witnessing the true “giants” of nature.
Other Notable State Parks
Oregon not only has national parks but also many beautiful state parks, offering diverse experiences for visitors.
- McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park: Famous for the majestic Burney Falls, praised by President Theodore Roosevelt as the “eighth wonder of the world.” The waterfall cascades from a height of nearly 40 meters, creating a spectacular and impressive scene.
- Oregon Coast: Not a national park, but the Oregon Coast is a natural treasure with pristine beaches, towering cliffs, historic lighthouses, and charming coastal towns. The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 101) running along the coast is one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the world.
Conclusion
Oregon is a fantastic nature travel destination with diverse and abundant national and state parks. From the mystical beauty of Crater Lake to the grandeur of the Redwood forests and the poetic charm of the Oregon Coast, each place offers unique and unforgettable experiences. Plan your Oregon exploration today to witness the beauty of the most remarkable national parks here and feel the magic of pristine nature. This trip will surely be a memorable journey in your life.