Crater Lake 🌏 🌱

#earthdayjourney 🌊 Rim Drive – Protecting the Clearest Lake in North America We explored Rim Drive, a 33-mile scenic road that offers jaw-dropping views of the lake. Crater Lake’s legendary clarity is preserved through strict conservation efforts, including bans on motorized boats, pollution control programs, and scientific monitoring of the lake’s ecosystem. Park officials also limit development to reduce human impact on the fragile volcanic terrain. Every stop along the drive gave us a new perspective of the lake’s vibrant blue color, reminding us why it’s so important to protect natural wonders like this. I highly recommend taking the drive and stopping for a hike along the way! 📍 Address: Rim Drive, Crater Lake National Park, OR 97604 🌲 Cleetwood Cove Trail – Responsible Access to the Water We hiked the Cleetwood Cove Trail, the only trail that allows visitors to reach the lake’s edge. The trail is carefully maintained to prevent erosion, and visitors are encouraged to follow strict guidelines to keep the water clean—like avoiding sunscreen that could introduce pollutants. Once at the bottom, we dipped our hands into the purest lake water in North America! Seeing the lake up close made us truly appreciate the efforts to keep it untouched. If you’re up for a steep but rewarding hike, I highly recommend this trail! 📍 Address: Cleetwood Cove Trailhead, East Rim Drive, Crater Lake National Park, OR 97604 🏕️ Mazama Village – Eco-Friendly Lodging in the Wilderness We stayed at Mazama Village, the park’s main lodging area, which follows sustainable practices to minimize its environmental footprint. The cabins and campgrounds use energy-efficient systems, and the park promotes waste reduction with extensive recycling and composting programs. The village restaurant also prioritizes locally sourced ingredients, making every meal feel connected to the land. Waking up surrounded by nature with the fresh mountain air reminded us of the importance of protecting these special places. If you’re looking for an eco-conscious place to stay, this is the perfect spot! 📍 Address: Mazama Village, Crater Lake National Park, OR 97604 Crater Lake is more than just a scenic destination—it’s a powerful reminder of how nature can thrive when protected. With its strict conservation policies and sustainable tourism efforts, this park is a model for preserving natural beauty 🌏