Despite the arrival of spring, Tim and I decided to enjoy a snowy adventure today. Mt. Hood isn’t too far from Portland so we took advantage of some free time and headed into the forest for a 6-mile snowshoe hike. We have learned over the years to arrive at trailheads early to avoid the inevitable crowds. Usually we only cross paths with a few folks, which provides us with much-needed solitude. After all, that is why people choose to escape into the wilderness, right? Most of the people we saw today were families with kids arriving as we were leaving – perfect timing!
We chose a trail that looped around Trillium Lake and maintained a relatively easy grade (except for the last 1/2 mile which was UPHILL!). The path was wide and if it had been a clear day, Mt. Hood would have been visible over the lake. Unfortunately, every time we go snowshoeing it is cloudy and snowing! We have yet to see Mt. Hood on a snowshoe excursion. Maybe next time…
We did, however, spot a Stellar’s Jay perched in a tree (also pictured at the top of this post). He was so tame and hardly budged while I snapped away taking his photograph. Beautiful, isn’t he? He was extremely round!
We were also confronted with a mighty dinosaur!
(forgive the snow splotch on my lens)
It was a great day to be outside enjoying the snow. We hope to get one more snowshoe trip in before the snow disappears:
Looks like we have at least a few weeks!
That bird is just the best!
He was such a cooperative, curious bird! I had a hard time walking away because he was so interested in having a photo shoot :)
That’s a beautiful bird! Quite a contrast with the snow. And that dragon is awesome! It’s huge!
The dinosaur/dragon was incredibly huge!! Whoever built him put little sharp pine cones in his mouth to resemble teeth – he had a lot of detail.
Beautiful spot, looks like a great time!
I’m excited to return on a clear day for views of the mountain :)
Beautiful photos! What a gorgeous bird.
Thanks :)
I agree with everyone, those photos are beautiful and that bird really is the best! Seeing him made my day. You take really good pictures. Of course, I hoped you re-fueled with brownies after that intense hike ;)
Thank you! I didn’t refuel with brownies… But, I did have some chocolate cake!! I think that’s a good substitution :)