PNW Mountains  –  FLAWLESS

Seriously, I was in awe of God’s creation all day yesterday. The pals and I took to the gorge to see some waterfalls. Sounds fun, right? Probably should bring a Clif bar and some fruit leather, I thought. Matt brought water and clementines. We ate some fudge by the gift shop. These things are not the kind of preparation I would recommend. At the end of our near 6 hour mountain adventure, our crew was just a bit fatigued and slightly sore. (I should mention that two members of the escapade ran a half marathon yesterday.) 13.7 miles, huh? 2400 feet elevation? 29,330 steps taken? NO PROBLEM.

I’m kidding; I won’t sugarcoat it. The trek was less than inspiring at times. The views, however, were magnificent! It was totally worth it when every switchback brought another breathtaking vista. Waterfalls, rivers breaking around mossy boulders, enormous panoramas, and more. I had to tell myself to keep the cap on my lens at times so that I would see things with my eyes as well. Oregon is inspiring for preserving their beautiful land and making it accessible at the same time. Please enjoy a few of my views from the day and if you hike, please heed my advice. Take 20 Clif bars.

I’m in a cave!

11 was just the beginning.

Here is Matt before traversing a fallen log.

I mean, we didn’t take pictures, but he totally crossed the whole thing.

It’s organic.

Thanks for being a trooper, Em!

Best $2 Joe ever spent right there

When you ask a stranger to take your picture, he might lay on the ground for the best composition.