return to vantage
Earlier in the season, Theresa and I headed back to central Washington to continue exploring this arid area. It’s just so different from what we’re used to in our lush evergreen forest of western Washington. And to shake things up we took our RAD Power Bikes, a tent, and a couple of sleeping bags to spend one night at Dusty Lake.
We snagged a site for the long weekend in Wanapum State Park. This campground is located on the western shore of the Columbia River. It’s such a popular place, that it can be hard to secure a reservation, so planning well in advance is recommended. We were also lucky in that our long-time friend and exploring companion Brad was able to join us.
WANAPUM RECREATION AREA
We arrived a day early and spent the time checking out the area around the campground. Checking for nearby trails we found the Beverly Railroad Bridge which spans the Columbia River and is an enjoyable short hike over into Beverly. It’s a part of the much longer Palouse to Cascades Trail. The geology to the west of the trail is stunning, but I believe most is off limits and it falls under the jurisdiction of the US Army.
Once on the bridge, you have beautiful views both up the river and down. Below the footbridge, you can make out the remnants of the old railroad bridge. The original bridge was by the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul, and Pacific Railroad (otherwise known as The Milwaukee Road) in 1909 during its Pacific Extension. In 1906, The Milwaukee Road began construction on its transcontinental rail line from Chicago, Illinois to Tacoma, Washington, which was completed three years later.
Support
Our mission is a labor of love, but it does come with overhead. If you’d like to support our efforts we’d certainly appreciate it. Currently, we’re actively participating in the following field research:
- COASST Beached Bird Surveys
- Wild and Scenic River Project
Thank you.
advertisement
I’m not sure who was more surprised as we pulled past the group of field hands taking a coffee break, them or us
Affiliates
Latest Instagram
One of the best things about volunteering for citizen-science projects is the opportunity to spend time in some truly breathtaking places. And with fall just around the corner, it's an especially beautiful time to be outdoors. There's nothing quite like watching the leaves change colors and feeling that fresh autumn breeze on your face. It's a great way to connect with nature and make a difference at the same time.
Our only tide window to conduct this month’s #COASST bird survey was just before sunset. Not only did we have the beach to ourselves, but we were rewarded with this view when we rounded the point. Had to pause the survey and just enjoy the view and tranquility.
We're spending the weekend exploring the 'Great Bend' of Hood Canal. We found a nice private campground to base out of. This is just one of the many views to be found on North Shore Drive.
Taking a brief pause to appreciate the beautiful sunset on the Long Beach Peninsula.
I recently went hiking in the Olympic Peninsula forests and stumbled upon this beautiful waterfall. It was such a serene and peaceful spot, and I felt so lucky to have found it. There are so many hidden gems to discover when exploring the great outdoors!
With the hot weather we've endured, I'm looking forward to Fall and the dramatic weather. Here's a sunset over North Head Lighthouse.
After a short hike along Murhut Creek, which originates from a narrow basin on the south side of the lower Duckabush River valley, we arrived at the lower half of Murhut Falls. The falls consist of two sections with a combined height of 153 feet, although only the lower half was visible from our vantage point.
I haven't had the opportunity to take a stroll around Waughop Lake lately, yet I couldn't help but notice the abundant greenery that now adorns the trails.
During our recent camping trip on the Washington coast with friends, we took a bike ride to Cape Disappointment State Park. We came across the Northhead Lighthouse, but unfortunately, it was closed at the time due to an ongoing cliff rescue operation.
Spent an incredible day immersed in nature's wonders with my adventurous partner, Theresa! 🌿🌈 We hiked along the majestic Chehalis River, mesmerized by its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings. And then, we stumbled upon the magnificent Rainbow Falls waterfall, its cascading waters painting the landscape with vibrant colors! 🏞️💦 Moments like these remind us of the pure magic that awaits when we embrace the great outdoors.
Looking forward to this sunny weekend getaway at Rainbow Falls State Park Exploring the stunning beauty of nature and immersing ourselves in the serenity of the namesake waterfall.
On a sunny day at the beach, the four of us enjoyed riding our bikes along the shoreline, feeling the sun's warmth on our skin. We laughed and chatted as we pedaled, the refreshing sea breeze accompanying us. Eventually, we reached the breathtaking Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, where we paused to take in the stunning view of the sparkling ocean and rugged cliffs. It was a perfect moment of friendship and natural beauty.
I had to stay close to home this weekend, but the Lakewood Summerfest was fun. Hot air balloons lit the venue.
We recently adopted a new #COASST beach for our beaches bird surveys. You can find more articles and photographs in the link above. #YourShotPhotographer #conquernorthwest #nextstop24traveler
A trail leading through the coastal forest on the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Read the latest article about our new #COASST beach. Link in the description.
Looking at the turnaround point to our new survey beach, which lies just to the west of Murdock Beach.
COMEDY OF ERRORS
Or maybe I should have titled this section, ‘Damn Google!’ This all started as we headed out to Quincy Lakes Wildlife Area. The route Google Maps had suggested was the one we had traveled before. All was good, with Brad following my lead in his Honda Civic. The problem developed when I noticed that there was a similar route, and being stuck behind a box delivery truck whose only offense was blocking my view, I decided to follow.
My first clue to something being amiss was when I couldn’t tell the difference between the dirt track Google was suggesting I take and the driveway next to it.
It wasn’t long before I realized I was so off the beaten path, traveling between rows of a vineyard. I’m not sure who was more surprised as we pulled past the group of field hands taking a coffee break. I’m sure their look of surprise was equally mirrored in my own!
All the way, Brad loyally followed despite the danger to his Civic’s undercarriage. Finally, I saw a truck on an obvious intercept path and the owner very politely corrected our mistake and provided directions to get off his land. My only saving grace was when he admitted that I wasn’t the first Google fool to drive on his land.
advertisement
article gallery
Dusty Lake
Having gotten back on our correct route, we quickly pulled our bikes from their racks and started packing, sleeping gear, photography gear, and other supplies. Once provisioned, we turned our heavily laden bikes south toward our destination.
Having the bikes so heavy, it took a while to find a method to feel like we were in control of them. Turns out the best method seems to have the electrical assist turned off, in a low gear, and use the thumb throttle for a boost when needed. This knowledge came at a few comical moments but we all stayed upright somehow.
Once we arrived at our chosen campsite, we quickly set up camp and pulled cameras from packs. Our photograph adventures didn’t last very long as a heavy thunderstorm had us ducking into tents soon enough. However, the rain gave the air a freshness that was appreciated.
The temperatures dropped as quickly as the sun, but an advantage of the bikes was that we brought firewood and a firepit. It was truly worth all the effort and embarrassment as we enjoyed the evening stars and conversations.
