Eagle Creek Trail

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One of our favorite hikes. The Eagle Creek Trail is always highlighted with a trip to Punch Bowl Falls. Today we decided to hike down to the lower section and were rewarded with an idealic view of the falls.

A Snowy Valentine

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A Valentine Snowshoe on Summit Meadows Trail

White Salmon :4th of July

Friends....come in all shapes and sizes
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This weekend we were invited to White Salmon to spend the holiday with friends. White Salmon, Washington sits on a bluff across the Columbia River from Hood River, Oregon. After dark we head to the edge of the bluff to watch the fireworks celebration.

They were spectacular! What a unique view we had. From our view point we sat ABOVE the fireworks display showcased across the river. The very highest displays were eye-level to us.

The next day we all split into three separate groups. We had some taking a mountain bike trail, some heading off down the river white-water kayaking, and some of use headed across the river to explore the Twin Tunnels urban trail that was created along the route of the old Columbia River Highway.

Lily & I decided to do the hike. Joining her on her adventure are her friends, Elby the Labrador and Cooper the Dachshund. Needless to say, they turned quite a few heads.

Greeting Card :: Friends....coming in all shapes and sizes [buy now]

Springtime Snow Shoe

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Yes, that date is correct. Here is it APRIL 20th and we headed up the mountain for one last snow shoe.

This was a record year in the area for mountain snow as our pictures today testify. The snow even felt deep under our feet. It was a bit odd to be walking along and seeing parts of trees that were typically way above our head.

Looking DOWN at the top of a stop sign buried deep below where we were standing was almost surreal.

What a wonderful day!

Eagle Creek Trail, Columbia River Gorge

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This is a favorite trail of ours. Every season paints a new picture. The water is high, so as we walk along the sounds of the river running and water rushing fill the air along with birds singing and the freshness of a Spring yet to come.

Many of the trees have yet to leaf out, so we have views today that we won't see this summer. The moss is in full bloom, giving the trees the look of antlers in velvet.

When the sun begins to peak out filtering through the towering trees, casting mystical shadows along the trail, it is easy to imagine you're transported into another time, another land. If a Hobbit appeared on the trail, you wouldn't be surprised.

Spectacular is too tame of a word for today. It truly took your breath away.

Lacamas Trail

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A beautiful Sunday hiking along one of our favorite trails.

Hike/Bike :: Forest Park

On Fridays you can sometimes find us meeting up with our friends for a hike/bike trek up Thurman Rd in Forest Park. Tyree heads off on his mountain bike for about a 14miler and Lily & I will trek about 5miles.

When the pack of bikers heads off and leaves us in the dust, Lily will howl, bark and screech, scolding them for leaving her behind. She will carry on like this for about 1/8mi the silly girl.

It is a beautiful trail and afterwards we all gather together at the local pub for drinks and dinner.

Forest Park :: a Portland Gem

In the heart of Portland lies Forest Park. With over 5,100 wooded acres & over 70 miles of trails, it is largest, forested natural area within any city limits in the United States. We are truly blessed to have this wonderful park so close and enjoy it often.

Today was the perfect day to head out and take a quick hike and enjoy the wonders of this truly special place.

Mt Hood Snow Adventure :: 030207

Snow is best enjoyed at 32 degrees. The Cascades (Mt Hood) has been getting a stellar snowfall the last few days. With temps forecasted to climb over the weekend, we decided to head up today for a little stroll and lunch to enjoy the picturesque mountain snows.

more pictures: http://www.growingupshiloh.com