Hardy Ridge Loop

What a difference in weather from last weekend! Today’s hike was up Hardy Ridge in the Columbia River Gorge. Typical for this time of the year, it poured rain – buckets and buckets of rain - almost the entire time and when the clouds weren’t trying to drown me, they were pelting me with hail. Crazy but I actually don’t mind hiking in the rain. It feels like “home”. The rain is comfortable and peaceful as long as I’m warm and somewhat dry. The hike was 7.5 miles and had an elevation gain of 1,820 feet. The view of the Gorge… practically nonexistent. The mood… excellent! Rain or shine, I’m just happy to be back out on the trails again.

Gnarl Ridge, Mt. Hood

My boots and I finally made it back onto the trails today! Between personal commitments and an accident in which I hurt my right ankle/foot, I was unable to hike for the past six weeks. As the weeks passed, my mood got lower and lower. I find so much mental peace in the mountains and I couldn’t wait to get back out there.

Today’s hike was up to Gnarl Ridge, Lamberson Butte, past Elk Meadows on Mt. Hood. It was beautiful, sunny, and just perfect! The views were spectacular! Although still beautiful, the mountain was really bare which gave it a totally different look. The hike was 10.75 miles and had an elevation gain of 2,342 feet. After my little hiatus from the trails, I could definitely feel the difference in my energy level. I had to push myself both mentally and physically on this one. As always though, I thoroughly enjoyed the day and was so happy to soak up the sunshine, fresh air, peace and beauty!