LANDSCAPES

Roaming the landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, one is seldom without mountainous views and snow-capped peaks that loom at horizon's edge - sirens which seductively call to you at work, "come out and play".

From our homeland in Portland, Oregon, fortune has gifted five such natural wonders as backdrops, including our beloved Mt. Hood, icon of Oregon, and the now famous volcano, Washington's Mt. St. Helens, which emits periodic vaporous eruptions against a clear blue sky. Mt. Adams, also just across the Columbia River in Washington State is a wild sort, untamed by resort destinations or human habitation. Part of the mountain is still owned by Native Indian Tribes. Elusive, but visible at its choosing is Mt. Rainier, a colossal prominence of white magic. From higher elevations in the city, Mt. Jefferson beckons to all who covet the solitude of true wilderness.

Within a short drive from town, The Columbia River Gorge cuts a mighty swath through the Cascade Mountains at sea-level from east to west. In its wake, the river leaves a deeply cut, magnificently sculpted gorge with towering cliffs and ridges with multitudes of waterfalls where hiking trails range from very short and easy to strenuous elevation hikes with high mileage.

In The Columbia River Gorge is an easy favorite hike that is particularly for wildflower lovers, but it also comes with an awesome view of Mt. Hood and the Columbia River - it is Catherine Creek. (See next blog)