Mt Hood - The Columbia River Gorge - Portland (20)

We left Centralia, Washington, where we spent the night, and drove south to Portland, Oregon. Our first goal for the day was Mt Hood and The Timberline Lodge.

Mt Hood

The Timberline Lodge, high up on the side of Mt Hood.

Mt Hood, near the top.

The Timberline Lodge was an amazing place. It has a very European, castle like charm. We felt like we were in the alps. There were skiers, and snowboarders everywhere. As we were leaving, guests were arriving for a wedding later in the afternoon. Magical!

Believe it or not, people ski in late July atop Mt. Hood.

The ski lifts were full.

The trees in Oregon are spectacular, enormous in stature, while being totally graceful.

From Mt Hood we drove to The Colombia River Gorge. Notice the Vista House at Crown Point in the upper right center of this picture.

Vista House sits atop Crown Point, with a panoramic view of the river in both directions.

More of the stunning trees. Around every corner is another beautiful view.

Multnomah Falls, a must see while touring The Gorge.

This is the scenic vista you see pictured on many of the Travel sites.

Carolyn and I climbed the mile long path to bridge below the falls. For the strong of heart, there is also a path to the top of the falls.

The view from the bridge below the falls, looking down to the Visitor Center and on to the Columbia River.

Later, we drove into downtown Portland to see the city at night. Dinner included seafood, yet again... LOL When Carolyn is on the coast she does not seem to know there is any other food!

Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment. ~Budda~