Crater Lake is a
volcanic crater lake in southern
Oregon, formed around 7,700 years ago after the collapse of
Mount Mazama. It is the deepest lake in the United States, with a maximum depth of 1,949
feet (594
m). Sacred to the
Klamath people, who call it
Giiwas, Crater Lake is the centerpiece of
Crater Lake National Park and has a deep blue color and exceptional water clarity. It has no inflow or outflow, the waters being replaced every 150 years through evaporation, rain and snowfall. Its best-known landmarks include
Wizard Island and
Phantom Ship, while the surrounding park offers hiking, fishing and winter recreation. This photograph shows a panoramic view of Crater Lake in winter, as seen from
Rim Village, with Wizard Island visible in the background.
Photograph credit: WolfmanSF
