National Parks offer fee-free weekend August 15-16

August 11, 9:22 AMPortland Day Trips ExaminerDenise Seith

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Crater Lake National Park

It’s that time of year again. Back-to-school ad campaigns are in full swing. Notebooks, pencils, and other supplies are stocked in every store awaiting a new school year. But wait… not so fast! Summer isn’t over yet. There’s still plenty of time for a fun get-away. If your family enjoys the great outdoors, head to a national park the weekend of August 15-16, and both your wallet and your kids will thank you. More than 100 national parks across the country are waiving their entrance fees this weekend. And what luck that Portlanders live within a few hours of two of the most scenic—Crater Lake National Park and Mount Rainier National Park.

Oregon’s Blue Volcano—Crater Lake National Park
Cobalt, azure, sapphire, indigo—there simply aren’t enough shades of blue to describe the intense color of 1,932-foot Crater Lake, the country’s deepest. You really have to see this southern Oregon gem for yourself. Encircling the lake is Rim Drive— 33 miles of pure scenery! Take advantage of the many pull-offs and picnic areas; each offers the opportunity to photograph Wizard Island and other geologic formations that protrude from the deep blue. Established as a national park in 1902, Crater Lake offers much more than an indescribable hue— camping, hiking, and boat tours will keep your family plenty busy. If camping isn’t your thing, make a reservation to stay at the historic lodge. The view from the back porch is legendary!

Mount Rainier National Park

Washington’s Crown Jewel—Mount Rainier National Park
Encased in over 35 square miles of snow and ice and originally known as “Tahoma” to the Klickitat Indians, 14,410-foot Mount Rainier is the highest in the Cascade Mountain Range. More than 140 miles of road loop through the park, so there’s always a waterfall, lake, or mountain viewpoint ahead. Although scenic vistas are plentiful right from the road, the very best way to experience the park is by hiking. The trails are as diverse at the terrain. Whether you prefer waterfalls hidden in cool forests, or wildflower-strewn meadows crisscrossed by streams, or even high rocky alpine slopes where mountain goats call home, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get good exercise. At the end of the day, decide between three campgrounds or two historic lodges—National Park Inn and Paradise Inn. Choose the latter, and you’ll discover that Paradise is not only a state of mind, it’s a real not-to-be-missed destination!

The new school year is still weeks away, so round up the family and pack the car. Squeeze every remaining day out of summer vacation by taking advantage of the fee-free weekend at nearby national parks. August 15-16 is the perfect opportunity to create great memories that’ll last a lifetime without breaking the budget.