Canyon Creek Falls

On a free Saturday, Tom and I hiked to McNeil Point on Mt. Hood. This is one of my all-time favorite Oregon hikes--a 10-mile (2,200' gain) out-and-back with beautiful scenery and some of the best views of Hood. I hiked this trail the same weekend in 2019, but there was much more snow this time due to the late season snows. The summer wild flowers were subsequently delayed this year as well. 

We took the boot path short cut to the top in order to avoid the snow fields on the main route. This steep option has a couple sketchy scramble sections, which I would not recommend to inexperienced hikers. Still, I was amazed at how quickly we reached the stone shelter on the ridge. Perfect weather and clear views of Mts. Hood, St. Helens, Rainier and Adams. 

We continued up another mile to Ho Rock at 7,000' for an even closer look at Hood. How I wish to climb it someday!

After soaking in the sun and vistas, Tom and I headed back to the trailhead via the longer, more gradual decent. The snow fields were manageable to cross with trekking poles, but microspikes were a bonus. 930am - 3pm.

This year might turn out to be my lightest hiking season since I first got into hiking while living in Colorado. A few reasons for this: working full time, other hobbies/triathlon training, and crossing off all of my bucket list day hikes within 3 hours of Portland. Still, hiking remains one of my very favorite activities. 

The next day, I went back to the Willamette Narrows for a morning paddle. This peaceful area of the Willamette River, just 30 minutes south of Portland, contains a grouping of basalt islands with narrow channels and unique geology and habitats.

My new favorite paddle destination is 1 hour northeast of Portland. Lake Merwin and Yale Lake are neighboring reservoirs on the Lewis River in Washington. There are a few parking options, but I recommend the gravel lot just before crossing the Yale Bridge. There are no facilities, but it has a quieter launch spot.

From the water, a left under the bridge leads to Lake Merwin and Cresap Bay. However, I turned right and paddled downstream towards the Merwin Dam. The wide open river was very calm and clear. It felt refreshing to take a dip! Lush green northwest beauty lines either side, along with small waterfalls, streams, and wildlife.

Just before the roped off section, I turned right into Canyon Creek. When you can't paddle any further, you've reached Canyon Creek Falls. This is a great spot for a break before turning back.

It took me 45 minutes to paddle each way. Go early to avoid crowds (9am on a Saturday was perfect). Next time, I would like to come back with friends and explore Lake Merwin.

My first article was published this month for the animal advocacy group, Faunalytics. Portland set a new record at the end of July for its longest heat wave in recorded history. This is just one year after we smashed all-time high temperatures. Moving in a plant-based direction is one of the best ways to slow climate change, fuel our bodies, and stop killing innocent animals. Speaking of which, Louie turned 1 year old on July 24th. What a blessing to have this little fur ball in my life!