Not only was the weather fine on Father's Day weekend, but both the girls were home with us. We took a drive south, through the Willamette Valley towards Stayton in search of Shelburg Falls. Oregon has great places to hike and this was a good one.
First, some refueling at the Java Stop on Hwy 22.
Daisies, and foxglove were lining the edges of the fields as we began the hike along the road toward the forest. The temperature was in the 70's all day, perfect as far as I'm concerned!
and Flores found a mud puddle within the first 5 minutes...
then had to suffer the indignity of being carried over several cattle guards.
The lower falls were not far into the forest
we then began to follow a trail toward the upper and larger falls
Taylor spots it in her trendy hiking gear...
The trail continues behind the falls, which is pretty cool and pretty muddy.
walking under a humongous ceiling of basalt...
lots of maiden hair fern growing in this area.
Slugs everywhere of course...
But there were also wild roses along the trail
and in the patches of sunlight, wild iris were popping out in various shades of purple.
The dog jumped into every body of water we came across. We kept him securely on the leash around the falls...
All in all, it was a great way to spend Father's Day
and it makes me wonder why we don't do this more often...
We always wonder the same thing after a great day out hiking with the children and the dog as we always have a lovely time. I am very jealous though - this is a beautiful part of the world and I would love to see it again.
ReplyDeleteBetsy--I would do that more often! That dog looks fabulous with wet feet, and that trail looks like a dream...your daughters are so lovely!
ReplyDeleteOh how incredibly gorgeous! I grew up in Oregon and went to college in Eugene. How I miss the lush forests. Thanks for sharing your hike :)
ReplyDeleteLois, you know I keep your room ready...
ReplyDeleteDawn, the pasture reminded me of some of the photos you've posted from around your place...
Antiquity, this hike is probably an hour's drive from Eugene, really close to Silver Falls state park. This one was dog friendly, while Silver Falls is not...
Betsy, I love this post and your hiking spot, your family all together! Sorry I missed chatting with you lastnight amidst the cacaphony of our festive meeting!
ReplyDelete