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A Visit to The Grateful Vineyard in Hood River
An early fall visit to The Grateful Vineyard yields fields of sunflowers with a stunning view of Mt Hood. The Grateful Vineyard has been open since 2019 and can be found on-site at Mt View Orchards in Hood River. Reservations at Grateful Vineyard fill up fast on the weekend. If you don’t mind a more casual dining experience, there are picnic tables set out so you can still enjoy your take-out with an amazing Mt Hood view. The staff was so friendly and explained all their seasonal offerings, including their delicious selection of hard ciders. Their cider menu includes peach, cranberry, blackberry and their house cider Golden Row Cider, made from…
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A Night at the Heceta Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast
The Heceta Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast is a magical place nestled in the hillside of the Oregon Coast. The keeper’s house was built over 100 years ago. A lighthouse keeper operated the Fresnel Lens from 1894 until the 1930s when electricity became available. As a result, the lighthouse was automated and the keeper was no longer needed. Consequently, the house was sold for the unbelievable price of just $10! Many years later, in 1995, it was converted to a bed and breakfast. Enjoy Your Stay The welcome drink pairs nicely with the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean from the front porch. Grab a blanket, cozy up in an…
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10 Essentials for Hiking and Adventuring
What are the 10 Essentials for Hiking and Adventuring? The 10 Essentials is a list of items for outdoor adventurers to keep on hand in case of an outdoor emergency. This list originated in the 1930s by The Mountaineers, a Seattle-based adventure group. It contained specific supplies to bring in your pack to increase your odds of survival should an emergency arise. The list included a map, compass, sunglasses and sunscreen, extra clothing, headlamp/flashlight, first-aid supplies, fire starter, matches, knife and extra food. The original list has evolved over the years but the basic systems needed for survival remain an important part of outdoor emergency preparedness. Options for outdoor gear…
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McDowell Creek Falls Hiking Guide
The McDowell Creek Falls hike under a lush woodland canopy is a peaceful place to enjoy nature with calming sounds of nearby McDowell Creek. There are several trail options going past multiple falls. Royal Terrace Falls, (not pictured) was just a trickle mid summer, so a fall hike would be a great time for ideal water flowing over the falls. About the Trail This wooded trail is fairly easy, but has a moderate rating due to the number of stairs. If you have mobility issues, this might not be a good choice. The stair cases will get your heart racing, but they are only in a couple areas. We hiked…
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Forest Park Ridge Trail Hiking Guide
This hike through Forest Park offers an outstanding view of the iconic St Johns Bridge in NW Portland. Did you know, Forest Park is the largest urban wilderness in the United States? As such there are numerous trails to explore within Forest Park. According to Portland Monthly Magazine, one of the best trails in the park is the Ridge Trail. Whether you prefer urban hikes or a more peaceful hike through trees, you will experience both along the Ridge Trail. Parking for this hike is limited to about 6-8 cars near the trailhead. Without other nearby places to park, you will have better luck going early or later in the…
