Located in the beautiful Mt Hood National Forest, Little Crater Lake is gorgeous natural wonder that’s absolutely enchanting. This little-known lake is 45 feet deep and fed by an artesian spring; like the iconic Crater Lake in southern Oregon, its water is incredibly pure and astonishingly blue.

Located near the base of Mt Hood, this beautiful hidden gem is a magical sight to encounter.

flickr/ Jamie

flickr/ Melissa Delzio

The water is cold and impeccably clear. Looking down from the observation deck, you can see 45 feet down to the bottom of the lake.

flickr/ Bill Geneczko

This natural wonder was formed long ago by an underground artesian spring that seeped slowly up through a bed of volcanic rock to form the serene blue pool that exists there today.

flickr/ Bill Geneczko

The lake is surrounded by emerald green forests and picturesque meadows that are speckled with wildflowers and huckleberries in the summertime.

flickr/ Hayden

It’s also especially beautiful in the Fall, when the blue of the water contrasts with the auburn Autumn foliage.

flickr/ Celeste Ramsay

Nearby you’ll find the lovely, rustic Little Crater Lake Campground, which is a great place to stay the night.

flickr/ Celeste Ramsay

You won’t soon forget a trip to this peaceful little lake in Oregon.

flickr/ Minh-Kiet Callies

Find out about more beautiful hidden gems in Oregon here.

flickr/ Jamie

flickr/ Melissa Delzio

flickr/ Bill Geneczko

flickr/ Hayden

flickr/ Celeste Ramsay

flickr/ Minh-Kiet Callies

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