PORTLAND:

Barton Bridge

The last two days were packed with adventure! Yesterday a group of us headed out to the Clackamus River for a float. We were lucky to snag a $12 inflatable raft from Walmart a few days ago in preparation. In addition, two inflatable kayaks and one lucky inflatable swan came along for the ride. We started out at Barton Park right before the Barton Bridge. It was only $5 to park. The weather was gorgeous with blue skies and 70-80 degrees. The water temperature was a slightly numbing 50-60 degrees. The goal was to spend most of the time in the raft and not flip over unless absolutely necessary.

After lots of foot pumping, our water vessels were ready for launch. The Clackamus River splits at times and reunites at others. So, right away we got divided from our group for a short period of time. After merging back together, we tied off with the swan while the kayaks went ahead. We bounced along class 1 to class 2 rapids which only amplified the excitement. The river itself was unbelievably clear and remained relatively shallow at most parts. We floated along at 3-5 mph for 4-5 hours.

Clackamus River

One of the most beautiful moments was seeing Mt. Hood rising in the distance over the river. There truly is nothing like floating down a river on a warm summer day and seeing a gorgeous snow capped mountain in the distance. No photograph could ever do it justice.




We ultimately arrived at Carver Park approximately 5 miles down the river. We pulled out our floats and began the deflation process. Honestly, I did not want to stop floating and probably could have for another 5 hours (or years really).

Climb the mountains and get their good tidings - John Muir

Mirror Lake with Mt. Hood

Today we opted to be less lazy and did a combo hike which included Mirror Lake Trail and Tom Dick and Harry Mountain trail. The first portion of the hike started off within a cooler forest region with scents of fresh evergreen and soil. After about a mile, the trail opens up to a marsh-like area and the small glacial Mirror Lake. As we made our way around the lake, the lovely Mt. Hood came into view. We were fortunate that today there was minimal cloud cover surrounding the peak.

Mt. Hood

 After a short rest and snack, we headed up the Tom Dick and Harry mountain trail. This was a slightly more difficult ascent with steep rockier terrain. At about half way up, my friend launched a snow ball in our direction. It was amazing to see pockets of snow throughout the mountain, especially on a 70 degree sunny day.

The struggle was real as were neared the summit. I was really feeling the thin air and the lack of endurance. But I pulled through! And the view was worth it. From the top, an even grander view of Mt. Hood was on display. And to put icing on the cake, Mt. Adams, Mt. Jefferson, and Mt. St. Helens were all within view. We spent some time resting and taking in the views.

We eventually headed back down before the sun began to set. Once we reached the car my Fitbit had tracked over 18,000 steps for the trip alone. It is amazing to think that in my first few days in Oregon, I have spent more time in nature than I have in the last 5 years. Here's to many more days among evergreen trees and on top of mountains.