The two RV Gypsies learned the difference between hoodoos, pinnacles, spires, fossil fumaroles, and lots of history, plus they saw amazing scenery.

These towering needle-like formations of rock, called fossil fumaroles, projecting from the Sand Creek Canyon floor, were formed under sheets of volcanic pumice that preceded Mazama's collapse.

As the surface of the hot pumice cooled over the years, steam and gases were released by the hot rocks underneath through vents and tubes that were welded into cement hardness by their passage. These ancient vents now stand alone due to the erosion of the surrounding softer materials.

Below: The two RV Gypsies took an easy walk along the rim of Pinnacle Valley. There were great views of volcanic spires and the had to use caution near cliffs. The trail was accessible to wheelchairs with assistance, and was also open to bicycles.

Formed during the same eruption that gave birth to Crater Lake, these volcanic spires are tucked away in the park's southeast corner. These needle-like formations of rock, called fossil fumaroles, projecting from the Sand Creek Canyon floor, were formed under sheets of volcanic pumice that preceded Mazama's collapse. As the surface of the hot pumice cooled over the years, steam and gases were released by the hot rocks underneath through vents and tubes that were welded into cement hardness by their passage. These ancient vents now stand alone due to the erosion of the surrounding softer materials.

Hoodoos versus Pinnacles

Hoodoos are spires composed of soft sedimentary rock, and are topped by a piece of harder stone that is less easily-eroded and protects the column from the elements. They protrude from the bottom of arid basins and badlands. Bryce Canyon is the most well-known area for hoodoos.

Pinnacles have a smoother profile or uniform thickness that tapers from the ground upward. These spires are smaller and typically not climbed and are clustered together, sort of like hoodoos.

Vidae Falls- This is the only publicized waterfall of the waterfalls in Crater Lake National Park. Vidae Creek drains a very small area near the rim of the Crater Lake caldera but is also fed by a very consistent albeit somewhat low volume spring. Thanks to the high elevation of the source there is always ample flow in the creek to make the falls presentable. The falls splash over a three-stepped bluff, dropping 115 feet before cascading down a steep talus slope and flowing under the Crater Rim drive. There is said to be another waterfall less than half a mile downstream as well, but accessing it would be an entirely off-trail endeavor.

After leaving Vidae Falls, the two RV Gypsies noticed smoke coming in from fires. The beautiful scenery and the fantastic Crater Lake could barely be seen. And people were just arriving at the park. The two RV Gypsies are so glad they got to see the beauty of this National Park before the smoke set in.

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