~ Fireweed Looking Beautiful as the Forest Recovers from a 2017 Forest Fire ~
The fire was started by some kids who thought throwing fireworks into the beautiful Columbia River Gorge of Oregon would be…fun? For years, trails were closed, and access was denied as the rangers cleaned up and mother nature healed.
Jane and I took off early in the morning for an hour’s drive into the gorge. The trail began at the base of Multnomah Falls. If you haven’t been to Oregon, it’s definitely a waterfall to behold. There’s a photo below of Jane and I with the falls behind us.
This was a steep hike and we ended up going about eight and a half miles. Some visitors were waiting for me at home and we didn’t have time to go all the way to the top. We’ll do that next time though!
Jane and her husband, Dan, hiked most of the Appalachian Trail a number of years back and was a font of good ideas! Gold Bond (double strength) Medicated Foot Powder rubbed on clean feet at the end of a long hiking day apparently feels tingly and amazing!
The fun long hikes with friends have become bonding moments of connection in a summer full of joys.
Once again, I am left feeling gratitude surges that ebb and flow like waves throughout my days.
