It turned out to be a perfect day for our hiking trip to Crater Lake. Blue skies were matched by the deep blue of the lake. And with temperatures ranging from 45 at the start to 60 later in the day, it was perfect conditions for hiking from 6,500' at the Lodge to 8,054' atop Garfield Peak.

With the sun out it was bright and clear and easy to see surrounding peaks. From Mt. Scott and Union Peak and Thielsen to Devil's Peak in the High Cascades, to Mt. McLoughlin to Mt. Ashland and even to Mt. Shasta.

Three departed Rite Aid at 8 am and arrived at the visitor's center by 9:45 to meet three more hikers and complete our party. We got some early steps in trying to find the open restrooms as some were being cleaned and prepared for the coming snow.

The view of the Lake was breathtaking, calm with the cliffs reflected in the water and a clear view all around the Crater.

As we enjoyed our lunch, visited by the occasional Chipmunk, Bob told us about the various Ice Ages that formed all these great peaks.

After lunch  we descended the path back to our cars and half decided to hike down to Cleetwood Cove for a dip in the Lake, and half headed home via Phil's Frosty. They still have Lemon Bar ice cream.

Another great day on the trail,
Rich