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Another stunner here! It's just a lake, right?! Wrong...it's the deepest lake in the country at 1,943 feet deep! It was formed when the peak collapsed during a volcanic eruption 7,700 years ago. The peak sticking up is called Wizard Island because it looks like a hat. Boat rides are offered but check with the entry booth or call the visitor center to confirm. Located about 60 miles northwest of Klamath Falls, Oregon.
Pro Tip: Arrive early during peak season or be prepared to wait 45 minutes to an hour to get in through the entrance booth. There is only one booth and no express line for park pass holders. Also, boat charters fill up so book in advance.
You can hike down to the lake and swim in the snow melt and rain that feeds the lake via the Cleetwood Cove Trail. It's the only legal way down via a 1.1 mile hike (each way) with 700 feet of elevation change...pretty much straight down and you have to come back up the same way. Take lots of drinking water and take your time coming back up.
Nosh:
The Pikey: I stayed in nearby Klamath Falls, originally called Linkville, before entering the Park the next morning. Don't let the 'dive bar' atmosphere intimidate you. The people are friendly and the food is good. I went for the reuben sandwich and 'sidewinder fries' (twisted potato wedges). The bread was crisp and so were the fries, thanks to their small size. Try the house made jalapeño ranch...I ate all the fries just because it was so tasty.
Nip:
Growler Guys: Apparently you can find a few Growler Guys locations around Oregon (as well as Idaho, Nevada, Washington State, and Wisconsin) but it's an Oregon institution. Lots of beer and cider for every palate, presented on the board from light and crisp to hoppy and heavy.
