Monday, April 20, 2009

Spring at Last


It has finally stopped raining here (every day at any rate) and we've been able to get outside for some hikes in the National Forests nearby. The temperature was actually pushing 80 yesterday - the first truly spectacular day of the spring - so we headed for Hamilton Mountain along the Gorge. We've done it before but since it's a short drive from Vancouver it's become one of our favorites. A challenging trail uphill thru the pine forests until you emerge at a lookout at the top at 2500 ft elevation. Nice views of the Columbia River in both directions.

Here are some selected views that represent the payoff for the leg-wearying trek uphill.






We've started the final preparations for the trip to Georgia - will be departing in 10 days. Been finalizing hotel arrangements enroute and generally loading up on maps from AAA. Will be great to see the kids and the grand kids again.