Crater Lake and Wizard Island in winter, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States (the second deepest in North America) at nearly 2,000 feet and is the only national park in Oregon. It’s a caldera lake that was formed when the ancient volcano Mount Mazama collapsed over 7,000 years ago allowing rain and melting snow to accumulate in its cavity. Well known for its incredible crystal clear waters and deep blue hue, it is also one of the purest bodies of water in North America with a record clarity of 142 ft. The local Native American Klamath tribe has long considered it a spiritual place and it’s easy to see why.

Wintertime adds a new dimention to the landscape here when the predominant blues are contrast with a blanket of white. The average snowfall is over 500 inches a year although the lake rarely freezes (the last time was in 1949) allowing for a very unique photographic experience.

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area on the Washington-Oregon border east of Portland is a paradise for water-sport enthusiasts, history buffs, and photographers alike.  This magical corridor, which provided Lewis and Clark safe passage through the Cascades during their journey to the Pacific,  today plays host to world-class windsurfing, fine wine making, and includes some of the most beautiful waterfalls in North America.

Latourell Falls pictured here is an icon of the area and one of numerous waterfalls that dot the historic Columbia River Highway. As America’s first scenic roadway, this national historic landmark is an engineering marvel from the last century and as much a destination as the lush grottos, cascades and temperate forests that surround it.