I chose a campsite along the Columbia River where I could see the sun rise because it’s such a wonderful way to wake up. We used to have a house with a view to the east and I grew to love watching from my cozy bed as the day was born. I like to leave my sunroof cover open so I can see the treetops and the stars. I have such a special view of the world from my minivan.

After a plate of my pseudo huevos rancheros and some time studying my favorite road atlas, I was ready for the day. This is a one night trip so I’m headed home.

I wanted to check out a new hike in the area and chose Mosier Plateau. It’s only 2.7 miles but 728 feet of gain. That’s basically in a mile, making it a steady climb to the plateau. It’s a fun and interesting hike though. I was so delighted to come upon the Mosier Pioneer Cemetery. I didn’t even know it would be there! It’s tiny, maybe a half dozen tombstones, tucked away from any roads.

Climbing climbing. I loved the way this tree arcs over the trail.

And there was a waterfall! I didn’t know that would be there either. It’s pretty high but you only see it from above.

I thought these were purple flowers at first, which would be super weird on a conifer, but they are pine cone clusters that look like flowers. So pretty!

I climbed these stairs and more like them. Most of the trail was fairly gentle switchbacks until you got to the stairs and just went UP.

As I got higher there was a lot of balsam root blooming.

I crossed the Columbia at Hood River so I could take Hwy 14 home on the Washington side. I prefer the curvy two lane highway to Hwy 84 with multiple lanes and lots of big trucks. I always take the smallest road I can!

I found a latte at a little coffee shop and toaster in Mosier called Randonne so I vowed to stop at the first restroom I came to. Spring Creek State Park and Hatchery is a treat! It has little paths through leafy trees along the river and picnic tables in all the best spots. It looks like a perfect place to fish or picnic. I took a stroll to explore and found this sweet little cove. Someone had put in with a paddle board there so now that’s on my list.

I did a double take when I saw s these fishing boats! It’s in a spot called Drano Lake, at the base of the White Salmon River. All these boats were just circling in a small area. There must be good fishing!