Oregon, June 2014: Crater Lake and Wine Tasting

Thursday, June 19th and Friday the 20th.

We visited Crater Lake National Park last September, only to find it fogged it.  So we had to make a return trip to prove to Judy that there really is a lake there.  :-)

The view from Merriam Point last September 22nd.

We lucked out with a gorgeous day.  We entered the park through the North Entrance Road, which had only recently opened up from the winter snowfall.  There were places where there was still ten feet of snow pack on the ground.  I have seen Crater Lake in past years during the heat of summer, but this was a first for seeing the snow.  It was beautiful!

Wizard Island from Merriam Point

Llao Rock from Merriam Point.

Snow pack on Hillman Peak

Mt. Thielson  from Pumice Desert

The drive to and from Crater Lake is along Route 138, which follows the North Branch of the Umpqua River.  We stopped several times for short walks and to observe the views.

Fly fisherman on the North Umpqua River

We ended the day grilling fresh, wild caught Chinook salmon, topped with a maple soy glaze, stirred fried fresh vegetables, and couscous.

On Friday, we went wine tasting.  The Umpqua Valley Region has developed a very good assortment of wineries.  The climate and soils are conducive to grape production and the number of vineyards is growing yearly.  We visited three on this trip.  My favorite, Becker Vineyard, is truly a "Mom and Pop" business.  Charlie and Peggy work hard, produce excellent wine, and are proud of their product.  We even ordered a case.  Next stop was Melrose Vineyards.  This winery is larger and fancier.   They cater and hold hold events as well.  Cory and Molly bought a case of Pinot Noir.  Last stop was Spangler Vineyards.  They are located only a mile or two from Cory's house.  We bought a couple bottles of white to have with dinner tonight.

Like every day here so far, we ended with a fantastic dinner.  We cooked Cornell chicken, along with roasted veggies and mashed potatoes.  Diets start next week.  :-)

Tomorrow we head to the ocean.