Crater Lake National Park 2016: Recap
Have you ever had one of those experiences where things just click and come together, and when you know the universe is on your side? It would be a day like this: the sun is shining when you wake up, a handsome man has fresh coffee right at your bedside {OK that’s my dream} you wake up to zero “emergency 911” emails, maybe a bird or two are chirping outside? Well if you can build that analogy to a camping trip — that’s how I feel about the inaugural Living Big camping trip. It just worked and it was so much fun!
Stop #1: Crater Lake National Park, August 2016.
I choose Crater Lake National Park because it’s the only U.S. National Park in my home state of Oregon, and I feel like I have heard a version of this story from DOZENS of women “…you know I’ve traveled all over but for some reason I’ve NEVER made it to Crater Lake National Park!” So insert Living Big — and a trip is booked.
I can’t even begin to share all the inside jokes, thoughtful conversation had between the group, belly-aching laughter, feelings of pride in all that we pushed our bodies to do and the breathtaking sights. But what I CAN do is share a handful of photos that will give you a sampling of just how epic the inaugural Living Big camping trip really was.
But FIRST: I want to send a HUGE thank you to my Dad, Rick, for being the official Living Big “Camp Director.” You kept us fed, hydrated and sleeping off the ground. You’re the best {and welcome to come back again next year!} I also want to thank my friend Kristin, for joining me in the summer of 2015 to research and plan for this trip!
Now SECOND: we saw waterfalls, hiked into pretty epic viewpoints (for a picnic lunch, obvi) hiked down from the rim to the waters edge, took a boat out to Wizard Island and hiked TO THE TOP, followed by a hike down into Wizard Island’s crater {get it? We were in a crater, in a crater) and a handful of us even jumped into the super cold lake for a refreshing cool down.
And THIRD —- I’ll always cherish, value and remember our fireside chats about life, adventure, games and voting on the official Living Big s’more. The winner is…..lemon curd, chocolate and marshmallow. (thank you Carmen for the inspiration!)
And FINALLY — one of my favorite moments of all – the quiet morning watching the sunrise over the lake, from the rocking chairs behind Crater Lake Lodge. It’s such a peaceful hour. {and aided by hot coffee and roaring fireplaces inside the lodge!)
It’s my hope and dream to bring Living Big to a new National Park each year.
On deck for 2017: Mt. Rainier National Park.
Cheers to #LivingBig!
Mary (and Rick, aka Living Big ‘Camp Director’)