Bob DenOuden's Pacific Northwesterner: August 2009

Family Backpacking Trip to Wasco Lake

Three Finger Jack from Canyon Creek Meadows

This past weekend we backpacked into the Mt Jefferson wilderness, near Three Finger Jack. I had never been to Canyon Creek Meadows and we wanted to get William out on a trail, so off we went with another family. This was a milestone of sorts, as William carried all of his own gear for the first time. It was a beautiful weekend, after a shower on Friday afternoon. Canyon Creek Meadows were well worth the trip. A high cirque lake below Three Finger Jack was a beautiful surprise. It definitely felt like fall was approaching with the cool, crisp mornings. A nice weekend.

Wasco Lake, looking across to the burn area

Jefferson Park

Morning view across Russell Lake

Maria and I bailed on our previously scheduled 3-night loop of Mt Adams (sorry Evan) but opted for a less ambitious (and closer) 6 mile hike into Jefferson Park. Friday was completely socked in. Drizzle, wind, and 45 degree temps kept us snug in the tent for the better part of the day. The next morning we woke to clear skies, with some mist rolling across the Park. A truly breathtaking scene of Mt Jefferson across Russell Lake, and no people. The crowds built up through the day so we left, content with one perfect morning in this perfect place. Mt Adams will come later.

Mt Jefferson from the Jeff Park, one of the most scenic spots in Oregon

Weekend backpacking in the Three Sisters Wilderness

Linton Springs

With Hwy 242 closed for construction we took advantage of a suddenly larger Three Sisters Wilderness to find solitude at Linton Meadows - now a ten mike hike from the nearest trailhead. It worked, we saw no one for three days. The meadows were a riot of wildflowers. They are also apparently less heavily used and recovering nicely from the damage caused by the throngs who used to visit here back in the day. Great trip.

Alpenglow, South Sister

A trip to the Oregon coast

Dune field neer Eel Creek CG

We spent a weekend camping at the Oregon coast - at Eel Creek Campground. We did a GREAT dunes hike, about two miles through an ATV-free section of dunes and then another two miles down a lonely stretch of beach. Very nice.

Europe 2009

In mid June, Maria, William, and I set off for France, Italy, and Switzerland. It was a fantastic trip in all ways and I am only now beginning to organize the many photos I shot. Here are a few highlights, both in terms of places and memories of the trips.