Days 1 and 2

Moving out of the first place we lived together was a whirlwind of boxes, packing tape, and the feeling of when will this ever end. We cannot thank Ted enough for his help in moving many of our belongings into storage, and for the use of his beloved F150. Living with a wonderful view of Lake Union and within a close proximity to the city and work will sorely be missed at some point in the future. As for the present we have completed the second day of our journey and are very thankful for the hospitality shown by Heidi on our first night.

Heidi gave Tori and I the tour of Salem, Oregon featuring stops at the Capital building, several breweries, and a walk across the "taco" bridge to explore the edges of the Willamette River. Salem is a quiet town with a very family friendly feel. The local beer scene has alot of promise and beverages were enjoyed at Xichia Brewing, Salem Ale Works and Vagabond Brewing. Hats off to those at Vagabond for the Attachk Owl IPA. For a laugh do some google searching for the story behind the Salem Attack Owl.

Quite the opposite to attack owls we enjoyed a night of comfort at Chez Heidi and were greeted in the morning with a tremendous hash for breakfast. What a terrific start to the day and our drive to Crater Lake National Park. Before reaching Crater Lake we made pitstops in Eugene for gas and groceries as well as two waterfalls. The first waterfall was cut through basalt columns and bore the tribal name of Toketee. This short hike of less than a mile round trip was well rewarded at the end. A bonus in the parking lot at Toketee is the giant wooden aquaduct that provides water to a hydro electric facility not far from the Toketee falls.

A few miles down the road from Toketee Falls we made a second stop at Watson Falls. This waterfall has much more height and towers over you on the short hike up to its viewing point. On the way back down I nearly lost my camera as I took a photo of the creek down stream from the waterfall. Thankfully some bushes caught the camera before it would have found its way down some rocks into the creek.

From Watson falls we continued down the highway onto Crater Lake National Park. Entering via the North Entrance we continued to gain elevation and were soon surrounded by snow covered fields. Yes snow still very much present on the 1st of June. After several more miles of winding and climbing we reached our first view of the famous lake. The huge stunningly blue water and its iconic island stretched out before us. From our vantage point high atop the cliffside we were amazed with the beauty that lie in front of us. Beyond the lake we could see many of the surrounding mountains. We continued around until we reached the turnoff for the south entrance stopping for more photos and views from other parts of the lake. Knowing that we will return tomorrow for a hike or two and to view the Crater from the east side.

Our second day ended with a short drive to Crater Lake Resort where we setup our tent for the night, made some dinner, and relaxed. Tori took to reorganizing the slightly overpacked car and I've spent time looking at photos and typing this up. 2 days and 500 miles in. Until tomorrow. Photos coming I promise.