Tyron Creek State Park & University Falls

Well this late in October it's hard to find a free day that isn't raining! Finally a friend of mine & I caught a break & went to Tyron Creek State Park. I didn't know it was a state park until we got there... Her dog Phoenix was not the only dog we rain into. And then the next day, Monday, I had off work. So I finally went back to HWY 6 to find those University Falls I'd seen signs for earlier in the summer. I had no idea I would be driving down a dirt/gravel logging road to get to the trailhead... But it was worth the time. I only wish I had more time to hike the trail that continued beyond the falls. 

Note: The car video watches much better on a phone (that most likely has newer video software) as otherwise the light reflecting off the glass gets in the way...

Gresham City Park & Its Hidden Japanese Garden

Nearby to family of mine, I often drive by Gresham's main city park, and wonder about it. Well the other day I learned it held a Japanese garden within its boundaries... So after visiting an aunt, I decided to stop by. I was surprised at how much was here. The park itself is fairly large, designed around a watershed so there are bridges everywhere. And it connects to a really cool part of the Springwater Corridor trail at its rear. I actually spent over 1.5 hours here, and still I hadn't seen everything. What a terrific find! Yes mom the tree at the end is for you lol :D

End Of Summer Adventures

I visited Tualatin Hills Nature Park this last week, and had one last beach trip of the summer with my mom. In Lincoln City, my mom and I not only saw Road's End Beach & depot bay, but we also hiked around Devil's lake for the first time. 

Oxbow Park & Sandy River

I was finally able to get to Oxbow Park after its recent restoration. I completely forgot that it's right near Sandy River too. Got some great photos of both! 

Escaping Smokey Air by Jumping-Ship to the Coast

After 2 days of unhealthy air (yellow, then orange) from wildfire smoke, I decided at the last minute to drive to the coast so I wouldn't get anymore sick than I already felt. (My body hates prolonged smoke exposure...) I knew the beaches would be crowded, so I headed for Tillamook Creamery & a hiking trail farther north that looked really interesting on Google Maps! It was nice to breath clean air as soon as I hit HWY 6, and for 6 hours after...

Horseback Riding in Pacific City

I had more time off after I got back from the Chalet so I decided to take a trip to Pacific City to do something I'd never done before: Horseback Ride on the beach. Was lots of fun.

Chalet Adventures

Jeanette and I took a little vacation to the Chalet Shalom. Good timing too, we were able to escape the last few days of the historic heat wave that swept the northwest. Here are some pics of our adventures.