Thursday 6th September

After leaving Klmath Falls we saw what we thought was smoke rising but as we got closer we could see it was clouds of insects by the side of the lake.

We turned onto Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway and soon came across a huge area of dead trees caused by a fire in 2003.

Perched on one of the dead trees were these turkey vultures.

We passed miles of black lava flows which dam the streams here and create the lakes.

We crossed a bridge over Davis Lake but could not get to the shore.

We stopped at Cultus Lake for two or three hours to enjoy the peace and quiet only interrupted by the comings and goings of a cheeky chipmunk.

By the side of the road are fast flowing rivers which link the lakes.

Another stunning view was of Broken Top seen from the far side of Elk Lake.

The most imposing mountain in the area is Mt Bachelor which is the best known skiing area in Oregon.

Sparks Lake was clear and turquoise at one end and it marks the end of the chain of lakes.