Yesterday was one of the most beautiful but also sobering days of our trip.  I left San Francisco early and planned to go to Medford for the evening.  I made really good time and decided to go on to Crater Lake which was not in my planned agenda.  Relying on my trusty navigation systems, I rolled further north and suddenly realized my route was toward Salem and not Bend, Or.  When I realized the error, it was too late to retreat back to Medford and discovered another route going east from Roseburg.  When I reached Roseburg I headed east only to learn that cell service, wifi, and all other aids did not work in this area.  I drove thru over 100 miles of canyons and curves with no sign of life other than an occasional car.  I tried to remember the guidance I had been given and luckily hit the right roads.  As the end of day was approaching and the climb to Crater increased, the snow levels on the side of the road got higher and higher with melting that was beginning to turn cooler as the evening approached.  Another 40+ miles off the first road and I was in Crater Lake park and now the snow levels were more than 10 feet high on both sides.  You can imagine my excitement when I finally arrived at Crater Lake Lodge.  It was the only open commercial establishment from Roseburg to Crater Lake.  But it was well worth it.  The original portion of the lodge was built in the early 1900s and was a massive entry room , a massive gathering space with a huge blazing fireplace, easy chairs, and a beautiful dining room.  The rooms were modest but very acceptable.  Only one problem:  no cell service, no wifi, no internet, no TV, no radio!!!!  Ever try to entertain yourself with no toys!  I enjoyed the dinner more and enjoyed the people watching and met a guy that had stories that would not quit.  It was a great time but comforting to get back on the road and far enough down to finally get cell services several hours later.

Crater Lake is a spectacular lake and some claim is the deepest lake in this country.  Even though it had the incredible depth, the surface is smooth as glass.  A little like people who appear very smooth on the surface but very deep and beautiful inside!!