Can you believe it? One of the great natural wonders on Earth is just 90 minutes south of Bend. And while our Central Oregon is undeniably beautiful, we have to admit … Crater Lake is on a completely different level.

Have you been? Better yet, have you been this year? Fall is one of the best times for a day trip. Take a hike, have lunch at the historic Crater Lake Lodge, then head out to the incredible stone terrace, grab an Adirondack chair and enjoy a drink overlooking that impossibly blue water.

It really doesn’t get much better than this—especially on a warm Indian summer day. But don’t wait too long: Crater Lake Lodge closes for the season on October 13th, so you’d better start planning!

Our thanks to Idaho First Bank, Powder House Ski & Snowboard, Today’s Country KSJJ 102/9, and VisitBend for making our videos possible.