Ashland, Lodge Live Cam

"Science has written volumes about the eruption of Mt. Mazama and its dramatic impact on the Northwest landscape. What's just as fascinating to me is the impact Crater Lake has on people. One can only imagine how John Wesley Hillman reacted when he stumbled upon the vast caldera in 1853. But every time I watch people walk up to the rim and discover that deep blue expanse for themselves, their faces give me a pretty good idea."

Crater Lake is one of the world's absolute most must-see sights. The Rogue River Gorge near Union Creek is truly "gorgeous." Oregon Caves National Monument is an adventure in underground life. Colliding Rivers east of Roseburg is the only place in the world where two rivers meet head-on.

The Rogue and Umpqua rivers attract whitewater enthusiasts, as well as those seeking salmon and steelhead. The southern Cascades are covered with trails and campgrounds. Seven bird sanctuaries in the Klamath Basin host hundreds of feathered species.