"Stairway to/from heaven - it's just a long climb!" Crater Lake Warnings Or Dangers Tip by CatherineReichardt

As previously mentioned, the Crater Lodge is located on the shoreline of the shallow soda lake that has established in the crater itself. It is a glorious location with only one downside ... the climb to get there!

Access from the car park to the lodge is only via a long, steep staircase cut through the indigenous forest - of which the photo shows only the bottom section. The good news is that the stairs are sturdily constructed and well maintained, and there is even a resting point with a bench about two thirds of the way up. Unfortunately its scenic nature doesn't alter the fact that it is a fair trek!

Happily, porters will gladly help you with your baggage - which you'll find is well worth a hefty tip - and fortunately the view is stupendous, which gives you an excuse to catch your breath on the long haul upwards as you save face by pausing to 'admire the scenery'!

This climb means that sadly this lodge is not a good choice for people with mobility problems or those who are advised to avoid physical exertion. It also means that you would be very well advised to make sure that you have everything you need before you leave your tent or car, in order to avoid having to make a return trek to retrieve whatever you've forgotten!

The only way to avoid these stairs is if you're well heeled enough to be able to afford your own private helicopter, as we discovered when the former head of the Kenyan Reserve Bank dropped in for tea one afternoon during our stay!