After being cooped up in a car for days all I wanted to do is get outside and enjoy
the clean pine scented air.
A hike along Hood River seemed to be a perfect way to enjoy a sunny Oregon afternoon.
The trail cut between large river rocks covered in moss.
Trees filtered the warm sunlight through the canopy over head.
The sound of rushing water beckoned us the river's edge.
The first view of the river was mesmerizing.
Here we stood motionless listening to the song birds, and basking in the sunshine.
We continued along the river trail to found an abundance of native wildflowers in bloom.
Busy bees collected pollen from Cascade Lilies, Broad-Leaved Arnica, and delicate Nootka Roses.
I was able to catch one bee in action gathering pollen from an Oregon Tiger Lily.
Numerous sprays of delicate white flowers bloom from the Creambush along the rocky shoreline.
Cascade Lilies also known as Mount Hood Lilies are one of my favorite wildflowers.
The sweet fragrance of these showy flowers filled the air.
I was impressed with the the strong roots of this tree.
I imagined what the river must look like swollen from winter rains.
The swift current could easily sweep those boulders away if it was not for the firm grip of that tree's roots.
The native Red Columbine, Aguilegia Formosa provides beautiful contrast to the lush green background.
I took in one last view of the lovely Hood River as we finished our rive hike.
Recharged from the beautiful walk along Hood River, we made our way back to
the guest house.
This spectacular view of Mount Hood rising above the trees dominated the skyline as we
made our way back to the town of Parkdale.
The Oregon adventure continues on!
I invite you to follow along to our next stop in Eugene.