A Blog post by
Viorica Marincus
Living in southern Oregon means being surrounded by incredible natural beauty, but one place never fails to leave me in awe: Crater Lake. No matter how many times I visit, I’m always struck by the depth of its color — a blue so rich and vivid it feels almost unreal. The lake’s remarkable clarity and great depth create this brilliance, making it one of the most breathtaking sights in nature.
On this trip, we spent the morning walking along the rim trail, pausing often to take in the sweeping views and capture photos of the lake from different angles. Every turn seemed to reveal another postcard-perfect scene. The air was cool and crisp, carrying with it a sense of calm that only comes from being in such a vast, untouched landscape.
Adding to the charm of the day were the chipmunks scurrying across the path and darting in and out of their burrows. They busily gathered dried grasses and moss, seemingly oblivious to the awe-inspiring scenery around them. Watching their energetic movements brought a simple joy to the experience, a reminder of the smaller details that make time in nature so rewarding.
The combination of Crater Lake’s brilliant blue waters and the playful wildlife made the day unforgettable — the kind of memory that reminds me why this place holds such a special spot in my heart.
My daughter and I set out for an adventure at Lake of the Woods, just outside Medford, Oregon. The sun shimmered across the water as we launched our boat, and a gentle breeze carried the freshness of pine from the surrounding forest. With mountain views rising in the distance, the lake felt like a serene escape — quiet, beautiful, and perfectly summer.
We paddled across the water, enjoying the rhythm of the boat and the calmness of the morning. Every stroke brought us deeper into the beauty of the lake, framed by tall pines and endless sky. It was one of those rare days where time seemed to slow, letting us simply soak in the moment together.
By the afternoon, though, a crosswind picked up and turned our easy paddle into a bit of a challenge. The calm surface rippled, and making our way back to shore required effort and teamwork. Instead of frustration, we found ourselves laughing — every strong gust just another chance to work together and turn the struggle into part of the fun.
That day at Lake of the Woods became more than just a summer outing. It was a reminder of the simple joys of being outdoors, the bond of shared effort, and the kind of memories that stay with you long after the ripples fade from the water.
