Crater Lake National Park Centennial Oral Histories
Einar Johnson, Superintendent 1970-1973
Crater Lake brings forth images of a deep blue lake within a caldera surrounded by lush green forests. I can visualize the clear blue skies of simmer and winter. I remember the deep snow and the snow plows keeping the roads (Which reminded my of deep canyons) open for travel from early fall to late spring each year. What an experience to enjoy the solitude of the park while cross-country skiing on unplowed roads and back country trails.
I recall the many hikes to the lake with family and friends, hikes on the trails with Erik to enjoy Mt. Scott, and the hike to Boundary Springs with Jan, Erik, Lisa and Susan. What a treat to sit and watch the water bubble forth and realize that the might Rogue River originated there.
I remember the Chiloquin Rodeos and the fun we had there. In August, 1972 I rode with Don Lefler, Lefty Wilder, Bob Mosier, and Bill Wampler and his son on a scouting expedition to check out a route for a Trail Ride from Crater Lake to Chiloquin in conjunction with that rodeo. The route we selected was 30 miles long and worked out very well for the pre-rodeo trail ride.
Crater Lake is certainly one of the Crown Jewels of the National Park Service. I was very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with such a great group of employees and to live here with my family in this unique environment.
