Spectacular Siouxon Creek

February 16, 2018

We hiked at Siouxon Creek in the southern Washington Cascades just last weekend; yet, it feels like an eternity has passed. I learned on Sunday that my beloved grandma's health is declining. And then Wednesday brought the devastating news of a mass shooting at a high school in Florida. When will enough be enough?

As I reflect on our walk in the woods, I can still feel the cold air on my face. I can smell the moss covering a young Douglas Fir. I can hear the birds chirping, almost as if they are expressing relief that spring is on the way. But I don't have many words.

Here are some images from our 5-6 mile walk along the Siouxon (pronounced SOO-sahn) Creek Trail in Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

Taking in Dragontail Peak and the stunning blue of Colchuck Lake before ascending Aasgard Pass.

Enchantments Thru Hike

September 3, 2016

A year or so after we moved to Portland from New York my wife's coworker told her about the Enchantments. He described an otherworldly place marked by a dozen high alpine crystal blue lakes and jagged granite peaks. A place not easily accessible and to see it would test one physically and mentally. I did a quick Google search for the Enchantments after he described this majestic place and I was blown away that such a magnificent place could exist - let alone within a few hundred miles of Portland.

Falls Creek Falls

April 5, 2016

Gifford Pinchot National Forest in southwestern Washington is home to some of our favorite trails and views and it is generally far less traveled than the other national forests in close proximity to Portland. We had both come across photos of Falls Creek Falls recently - so the hike was high on our long list of new places to explore. We weren't sure what to expect as neither of us had read much about it. I had never expected, though, that it would be the most awe-inspiring waterfall I have ever come across.

Hamilton Mountain

March 2, 2016

Hamilton Mountain is one of my favorite Gorge hikes thanks to its waterfalls, beautiful old growth forests, creeks, and striking views. I've hiked it now three times and have never been disappointed. Although - I've also never had a clear view from the summit. Some day.