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A Closer Look at Steens Mountain
Seeing Steens Mountain from below is pretty great, but exploring the ridges and viewpoints and getting an up-close look at Steens Mountain from the summit is really the best way to experience this rugged eastern Oregon mountain. That’s right, fun fact: Steens Mountain (also known as “the Steens”) is not a mountain range, but is actually a single fault block mountain! In this article, you can follow along on our trip through small eastern Oregon towns to the top of a vast mountain and back down to the desert with stunning scenery the entire way. Buckle up and enjoy the ride… What is a Fault Block Anyway? The Steens Mountain…
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Visit Kainos Coffee in The Dalles for a Smooth cup of Perfectly Brewed Coffee
If you’re in The Dalles , start your morning off right with a visit in to Kainos Coffee for a delicious cup of coffee. Right away you will notice a fun, colorful space with geometric patterned walls accented with lots of indoor plants. On one side of the coffee shop is a row of tables and chairs, perfect for working remotely. The opposite side has a comfortable sofa and a fun coffee cup mural. The bourbon maple flavor was suggested to me by one of the friendly baristas and it was such a great choice. I ordered mine with almond milk and it was delicious. The beans were expertly roasted…
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A Visit to The Grateful Vineyard in Hood River
An early fall visit to The Grateful Vineyard yields fields of sunflowers with a stunning view of Mt Hood. The Grateful Vineyard has been open since 2019 and can be found on-site at Mt View Orchards in Hood River. Reservations at Grateful Vineyard fill up fast on the weekend. If you don’t mind a more casual dining experience, there are picnic tables set out so you can still enjoy your take-out with an amazing Mt Hood view. The staff was so friendly and explained all their seasonal offerings, including their delicious selection of hard ciders. Their cider menu includes peach, cranberry, blackberry and their house cider Golden Row Cider, made from…
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A Night at the Heceta Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast
The Heceta Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast is a magical place nestled in the hillside of the Oregon Coast. The keeper’s house was built over 100 years ago. A lighthouse keeper operated the Fresnel Lens from 1894 until the 1930s when electricity became available. As a result, the lighthouse was automated and the keeper was no longer needed. Consequently, the house was sold for the unbelievable price of just $10! Many years later, in 1995, it was converted to a bed and breakfast. Enjoy Your Stay The welcome drink pairs nicely with the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean from the front porch. Grab a blanket, cozy up in an…
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10 Essentials for Hiking and Adventuring
What are the 10 Essentials for Hiking and Adventuring? The 10 Essentials is a list of items for outdoor adventurers to keep on hand in case of an outdoor emergency. This list originated in the 1930s by The Mountaineers, a Seattle-based adventure group. It contained specific supplies to bring in your pack to increase your odds of survival should an emergency arise. The list included a map, compass, sunglasses and sunscreen, extra clothing, headlamp/flashlight, first-aid supplies, fire starter, matches, knife and extra food. The original list has evolved over the years but the basic systems needed for survival remain an important part of outdoor emergency preparedness. Options for outdoor gear…
