In Over Our Heads – Oneonta Falls, Oregon

Oneonta Falls, Oregon

After cycling Crater Lake, we decided to take the scenic route home and explore Mt. Hood Territory and the Columbia River Gorge.  The most challenging part of our day was deciding where we should go and what we should do.  I would suggest you could spend an entire year in this area and not come close to exploring all of the trails, rivers and streams that make up this wonderful outdoor playground.

At 12,000 feet, Mount Hood is the highest point in Oregon and considered to be the crown jewel of the Gorge.  We were lucky enough to be driving on a beautiful, sunny day and were rewarded by incredible views of Mt. Hood for most of the day.  The mountain called out to us and as we drove by we made a promise to return!

Our route took us through acres of orchards and wineries all nestled in the mountain valley.  We arrived at the Town of Hood River and were immediately captivated by the bright colours of the kites and windsurfing sails.  To call this a windsurfing mecca is an understatement.  The Gorge is famous for its wind and Hood River is the place to be when the wind blows!

Hood River, Oregon

Windsurfing Capitol of the World

After leaving Hood River we decided to get off the main road and explore the historic Columbia River Highway.  This route has been nicknamed the “King of the Roads” because of its waterfalls, gorges and panoramic views of the Columbia River.  We usually prefer to avoid the busy tourist attractions, but we could not resist a stop at Oneonta Falls.

The parking lots were full and we laughed as we joined countless others trekking to the falls.  We were fully expecting a “sanitized” and “controlled” hike…..marked trails, paved walkways, boardwalks, railings, fenced viewpoints.  To our delight, the walk was anything but paved!  We descended a few stairs into the gorge and then Mother Nature took over.  Mossy tree limbs and deep green ferns lined the canyon.  The river was the trail!

The Gorge at Oneonta Falls

Ferns and Moss line the route

Before we knew it we were wading upstream.  We rounded a bend and came across a big log jam.  Dozens of people were attempting to climb the logs in their quest to view the falls.  It was like a pilgrimage!  Young and old alike assisted each other over the slippery logs – nothing like a good ol’ log jam to bring folk together.

Can't go round it...gotta go over it!

Oneonta's version of Walk the Plank

After successfully negotiating the climb, we found ourselves at a deep pool.  Before we knew it, we had joined the masses and were chest deep in the water pushing forward to the falls.  We finally arrived at the base of the falls, cold, wet and exhilarated!  It was there we met Dave.

What a character!  Dave was huge!  He loomed over six feet tall and was easily 250 pounds.  Picture an offensive lineman from your favourite NFL team….that’s Dave!  What made Dave extra special was his leadership style.  One of my favourite leadership videos is called First Follower:  Leadership Lessons from the Dancing Guy.  It is the story of how a lone nut attracts a second follower and before you know it a movement is created.  Watch the video….it will make more sense!

Well, Dave and his buddy created a movement.  Rob and I watched in amazement as hiker after hiker jumped in to the deep waters below the falls.  Led by Dave, the crowd cheered each and every swimmer on!  Under Dave’s supervision, not a single hiker left the gorge that day without taking the plunge! It was FANTASTIC and yes, we are card carrying members of Dave’s Go for a Swim Club!

In Over our Heads

 Giggle of the day:

Do you remember Dave, the offensive lineman who led the group swim at the falls?  As we were making our way back out of the gorge, we bumped into Dave at the log jam.  Rob and I were perched precariously on the logs inching our way forward, when all of a sudden Dave commanded us to STOP.   This huge, hulk of a man had spotted a frog.  Dave beckoned Rob over to snap a picture and then took control of the hikers.  He positioned himself above the frog and began directing traffic.  The image of this gentle giant dangling from a tree in an attempt to protect a tiny frog is something we will never forget.  Giant Dave – King of the Frogs and Master of the Falls!

Apologies for the blurry picture....Under Dave's direction, Rob was literally hanging almost upside down to get the shot

Map and Route Tips:

Things to do and see - The Columbia River Gorge

Hood River

#iloveoregon #traveloregon #hike #windsurf #pnw #discoveroutdoors #waterfalls

Do you know these trails?

Do you know these trails?
Exploring Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest, Surrey BC

The bright September sunshine poured through my office window as I tried to focus my attention on my work task list.  Bills, invoices and spreadsheets called out to me, yet I could not pass up the opportunity for an "outdoor break" to celebrate this glorious fall day.  Being short on time, I decided on a brisk walk in the neighbourhood.

True confession time - Rob and I are extremely spoiled.  We live within a hop, step and a jump of Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest, one of the City of Surrey's true gems.  This area was one of the first designated urban forests in Canada and is one of Surrey's largest parks.

Can you imagine an urban forest at your fingertips?  Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest Park is a 130 hectare natural second growth forest.  Douglas Fir, Vine Maple and Huckleberry bushes line the trails which are home to banana slugs, spotted towhees and the occasional black tailed deer.  If you look closely you can see a few stumps, remnants of the logging that took place in the early 1900's.  These stumps are now nurse stumps and support all kinds of new growth.

On this particular day, I was taking my time, strolling along Chickadee Loop when a couple approached me.  They were completely lost and attempting to make their way back to their car.  They asked me if I knew the trails.  Of course I was happy to help and confidently pointed them in the direction of the parking lot.

Did I know these trails?  The memories began to flood in.  As I continued walking, I began to reflect on how well I actually did know the trails and more importantly the joy the urban forest has brought our family.

We have been exploring Sunnyside Acres for over 23 years!  In the beginning, when our children were toddlers, our visits to the park were like expeditions.  We equipped ourselves with rain gear, sunhats, sunscreen, strollers (now called infant transportation systems) and of course SNACKS!  It would take us almost a full day to complete the 4 km loop!  We would stop to examine every slug, snail and tree stump that lay before us.

Our family, like the forest, grew and changed.  We transitioned from strollers and tricycles to running shoes and bicycles.  Our speed to complete the loop increased dramatically, yet each and every one of us still finds a sense of peace and calm when visiting the trails to stroll, walk, ride or run.

Over the years, we have participated in many community habitat restoration events in the park.  As a family we feel a sense of ownership, connectedness, pride and protectiveness for this very special place.  And so, YES - I DO know these trails and I sincerely hope many more families will come to appreciate them the way we do!

Giggle of the Day:

There is a downhill section of the trail that twists and turns as you gradually descend.  Looking at the terrain now, it does not seem like much, but 20 years ago it seemed quite steep.  At the time, our son would insist on riding his tricycle along this section of trail.  I could barely watch as he would remove his hands from the handlebars and take his feet off the peddles.  He would scream with glee as he barrelled along the trail.  I would shut my eyes, hold my breath and wait for either the sounds of a crash or the joyful sound of another successful ride.  I caught up to him after one particularly fast descent, and he looked up at me and exclaimed, "MOM - wouldn't it be great if the whole world was downhill!"


Map and Route Tips:

Thank you to the City of Surrey, the dedicated volunteers who make up the Sunnyside Acres Heritage Society and to those trailblazers in 1988 who asked the community "Do you want this area to be preserved?"

Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest Trail Map

Parking is available in a designated area - enter off 24th Ave.

And...check out this video featuring sounds from some of my favourite green spaces in Surrey.  EcoMUSICology & Surrey's Biodiversity Conservation Strategy

#truesurrey #explorebc #surreybc #family #discoveroutdoors #getoutside

I am the Weakest Link

As a fall chill begins to hit the air, and the September Labour Day long weekend approaches, I find myself reflecting on the summer.  The days have gone all too quickly, with so many trips and adventures still on the wish list!  This has been a monumental summer for us in many ways.  We have watched our “flock of baby birds” with awe, pride and sometimes a sense of terror and foreboding as they have embarked on their own adventures.

Family Kayak Trip - Sechelt 

It seems like yesterday we were packing diapers, soothers, stuffies and SNACKS into our back packs – (essential survival items for outdoor travel with toddlers).   Now, we find ourselves anxiously awaiting trip reports and news from our adult children as they cycle to Mexico, paddle the waters of BC and guide in the unpredictable waters of the Hecate Strait, off Haida Gwaii.

Bunny Boyz arrive at the border to Mexico

Adam leads a Ridge Wilderness Group in a Moving Water Canoe Course

Emma strolls the beach during a Moresby Explorers Tour

Rob and I feel such a sense of pride as we watch Ian, Adam and Emma embrace the outdoors and challenge themselves to take risks and seek adventure.  However, it has become abundantly clear that I am now the weakest link.  In all honesty, I have probably been the weakest link for quite a long time, but it was this summer that it became obvious - even to me!  I began to notice everyone asking if I was all right, if I needed help.  While I am comforted by the fact that my family cares about me, it is quite unsettling to realize that I am the one that is slowing the pace of the group, and the one that the group worries about most.

Our style of out tripping has definitely evolved from those early years.  We are no longer about the speeds and distance or the weight of the pack.  And yes, it is a little harder to roll out of that sleeping bag on a cold and rainy morning, but at the risk of sounding cliché, we are taking time to smell the roses.  So, as we begin to plan our next trip, we may shorten our mileage, walk a few hills and accept help when offered. 

San Juan Islands

Rob sets up camp

YES - I am the Weakest Link….. and I think I love my new role!  Now, could someone please help me with this heavy pack?

I am the Weakest Link

Sea to Sky Adventures in Squamish, BC

I have to be honest.  When I first heard of the proposal to build the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish, I was a doubter and really not thrilled with the thought of paving paradise to put in a parking lot.  Sometimes in life you have to earn the view, and to me hiking is one of those activities that rewards hard work and perseverance.  I also believe strongly in no impact camping and preserving nature for future generations.

Sea to Sky Gondola Parking Area - Squamish, BC

However, I was convinced to try the Sea to Sky gondola to see for myself.  Opened in 2014, the Gondola transports visitors from the parking lot adjacent to the Sea to Sky highway to the lodge at 885 meters.

Base Facilities - Sea to Sky Gondola - Squamish BC

We purchased our tickets, hopped in line and joined a young family in the Gondola car.  We were quickly whisked up the mountain.  The views from the Gondola were absolutely spectacular!  Unfortunately, we missed most of them, as we were completely taken with the young 'uns who shared our Gondola.  The kids were ages 2 and 4, and mom was pregnant with her 3rd baby.  They were dressed in muddy buddies, boots and toques and their excitement was contagious!  Hurrah for a young family connecting their kids to nature!  The little man, excitedly exclaimed GABOLA every time we passed another Gondola car.....it's the small things in life isn't it?

Summit Lodge - Sea to Sky Gondola - Squamish, BC

We soon arrived at the top, bid farewell to our newest "favourite" family and stopped in at the lodge.  Magnificent!  The Summit Lodge featured a restaurant, bar, tea house, gift shop and a sheltered place to take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.  After reviewing the trail maps, we began our hike by crossing the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge.  This bridge is 100 metres long and a definite crowd favourite. Having said that, we were surprised at how many people were truly fearful of crossing the suspension bridge.  It seemed a shame for them to miss out on the trails that beckoned from the other side.

Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge - Sea to Sky Gondola - Squamish, BC

Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge - Sea to Sky Gondola - Squamish, BC

The area is extremely well maintained.  In fact, we both commented that if felt a bit like visiting Tom Sawyer Island in Disneyland.  The trails and viewing platforms are well planned, well marked and feature signage highlighting the natural features along the way.

View of Sky Pilot - Squamish, BC

We enjoyed the views, and then decided to follow the trail leading out to the back country access.  We chose the Skyline Pilot trail hoping to take in views of Pilot and Copilot along the way.  It was an easy hike, with relatively little elevation gain and before we knew it, we were feasting on a picnic lunch at the end of the marked trail.  We joked that although the sign said end of the trail, we felt like it was only the beginning.  Despite the lodge and gondola being very busy, we did not encounter a single soul on the back country access trail.  I must confess...that is how we like it.

End of the line...Sky Pilot Valley Trail

We made our way back to the Lodge and decided to pop in for a coffee.  The lodge is a fantastic place to people watch.  It is a strange mixture of seasoned hikers (the ones covered in mud who refused to take the gondola up, and instead climbed and grunted their way to the top), tourists from all over the world and some of the best dressed hikers I have ever seen.  I could barely believe my eyes as a group of ladies in high heels made their way to the bar, purchased a couple of bottles of wine and settled in on the outdoor deck beside the roaring fire.  In truth, I still can't quite believe there was a bar up there!  Time passed quickly as we enjoyed the views...both those of nature and the people!

I left with mixed emotions.  We had definitely passed many people who physically would not have been able to visit this area had they been required to hike up on their own.  The demands of the hike would have been too much.  The Gondola has opened up an area of the mountain that many would not have the opportunity to visit.  Sea to Sky adventures appears to be attempting to blend education into the mountain experience and have created a wonderful opportunity for many to learn more about the mountain vegetation, wildlife and natural history.  Additionally, easy access to the back country provides hikers opportunities for expanded hiking options in the area.  Admittedly, we enjoyed a great day of hiking and yet there still is a part of me worried that we paved paradise to put in a parking lot.

Selfie Props - Sea to Sky Gondola - Squamish, BC

Giggle of the day:

We had the pleasure of riding the Gondola down the mountain with a couple of Aussies (it seems every fun story also begins with a couple of Aussies ) and a couple of gentlemen from Israel.  One of the Israelis was valiantly trying to share a story with us in English when his cell phone rang.  His ring tone was the theme song from the old western "The Good, The Bad and the Ugly".  We all broke out into laughter and then Rob asked the question we were all thinking....which one are you?  Without missing a beat, he replied, in perfect English...I am good.  It left us pondering which gondola the bad and ugly might be on.


Map and route tips

Fees

Gondola download is available for those hardy souls who hike up and want to relax on the way down.  There is a charge to download.

Trail maps available at the kiosk.

Interactive Map

#explorebc #SeaToSky #Squamish #yvr #vancouver #discoveroutdoors

Paddle Forward - Voyageur Canoes & Reckies Storm the Beach

We were invited to join Paddle Forward - a beach cleanup event in North Vancouver hosted by the "Reckies" - Outdoor Recreation students from Capilano University.  How could we resist a day on the water paddling a voyageur canoe in search of marine debris?  It seemed like a perfect outing for us!

Our day began at Cates Park in North Vancouver.  This beautiful seaside park offers 6 km of waterfront trails with spectacular views of Indian Arm to the north and the Burrard Inlet to the south.

Welcome sign to Cates Park

Swimming Area with view north to Indian Arm

The boat launch is open year round and well used by paddlers, power-boaters and anglers.  We were excited at the opportunity to paddle a Voyageur.  We learned that the larger canoe we were going to use for the day was called a Montreal canoe.  The canoes were graciously donated for use during the event by Ridge Wilderness.

These boats are beasts!  They can hold up to 22 people and all of their gear - a bit roomier than our sea-kayaks.  Although our boat quickly filled with garbage, we tried to remind ourselves of the earlier days when the fur traders would load their canoes with furs and goods to trade.  It is unimaginable to think of portaging these monsters!

Getting ready to launch the canoes

It was nerve racking to watch the team reverse the trailer with those huge canoes down the boat ramp.  I know for sure that I would not want to drive the truck and trailer.  However, our team, led by guides from Ridge Wilderness handled it like pros and made it look easy.  A very smooth start to our day.

Micro-biologist looks downward as the Marine biologist looks out

Safety talk and trip prep

After a brief safety talk, we donned our life jackets and loaded up the canoe.  Again, we were amazed at the size of these boats and I wondered if we had a strong enough team to paddle across the inlet.  Within a few strokes it became apparent that the boats were surprisingly maneuverable - credit to our guides of course.  We quickly crossed the inlet and were out and on the beach in search of garbage before we knew it.

All aboard

When does marine debris become habitat?

Event organizers take a bow

Garbage barge

I am saddened to say that it only take a short amount of time before we had filled the canoe with garbage.  The team was forced to decide whether to continue with garbage collection, meaning several of us would have to swim back, OR, call it a day and paddle back.  For a moment I was nervous that this dedicated and energetic group of students weren't joking and would ask us to swim.

Although we were very upset by the amount of garbage, on the bright side, it was inspiring to see that a few people, a big canoe and a little bit of time can make such a substantial difference.  As Dr. Seuss pointed out in the Lorax, "UNLESS someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better, It's not."

  As we celebrated during the post cleanup BBQ, we felt inspired by these "Reckies" and that they did care a lot.  We felt confident that these students would continue to advocate for the care of these waters and the amazing BC coastline.

Celebration Picnic

To the dump

Giggle of the day:

It would be impossible to load up a canoe with University students on a long weekend and not giggle.  There were countless bad garbage jokes and lots of teasing, however, my favourite was our early morning paddling lesson.  We all sat patiently in the canoe as we were taught a forward stroke, a back stroke and how to rest.  I giggled as the "resting" stroke quickly became our favourite and the one that the group mastered the quickest!

How do you do the rest stroke again?

...and here is a video of the action from the uneqivocal Cap OREC team....enjoy!

Map and Route Tips:

There is a boat launch and parking fee.

Cates Park offers a picnic shelter, concession area and washrooms.

We tested our Strava mapping tool while paddling the inlet....it appears that we must have entered the Bermuda triangle for the first section of the paddle.

Are morning people happier?

At the risk of alienating my three children and night owls every where, I dare to ask the question:  are morning people happier?  Over the last few years, Rob and I have been conducting a study, albeit a totally unscientific and unsubstantiated study, but thought provoking none the less.  Now, I must confess to a personal bias.  My favourite time of the day is early morning.  I have always been and will likely always be a morning person.  Yes - one of those people who usually wakes up perky and ready to go, much to the annoyance of those around me.

Morning coffee on the beach - Broken Island Group

In my humble opinion, nothing is better than crawling out of tent, brewing that first cup of coffee and quietly sitting on the beach watching the world wake up. Thankfully, Rob is also a morning person....our biological clocks are in synch enabling us to share an early morning giggle and outing.

I would contend that we are not alone and hence the premise for my question.  As we hike, bike and paddle we have noticed over the years that the greetings from others on the trails are usually heartier and happier in the morning.  Have you noticed?

Golden Ears Provincial Park

Maybe the possibility of a new day and new adventure ahead leaves folk feeling optimistic or maybe as the day goes on the weight of the day, the to do lists and unfinished tasks begin to take their toll.  Whatever the reasons, I encourage you to join our study and help us to answer the question:  are morning people happier?

I am not sure if Ben Franklin was right when he said early to bed and early to rise makes a men healthy, wealthy and wise, but for me....early to rise means a good cuppa Joe is waiting.

Happy trails!

I'm their leader....which way did they go?

True Confessions:

I must be truthful! Rob usually crawls out of the tent first and gets the water boiling and the coffee brewing.  We have been hiking, paddling and cycling for as long as I can remember and over the years we have developed an easy rhythm around camp.  I contend that it is this rhythm and unspoken adherence to our roles and responsibilities that forms the basis of a happy trip (and maybe happy marriage?)  Rob braves the elements to get the coffee on, and I pack up the gear in preparation for the day ahead.  Maybe, if everyone on the trail could find someone like Rob to brew the coffee, we would all be morning people.

Urban Mushing and Steelhead Fishin"

Urban Mushers and determined Fishers were the highlights of this ride along the Vedder river dyke trails.  Our day began at the Mckay Creek Trail head, part of the Trans Canada Trail.

Trans Canada Trail marker points the way

As we were unloading our bikes and getting ready to hit the trail, we were greeted in the parking lot by Kathy, an Urban Musher.  Intrigued we delayed our start to chat with her.  We learned all about this dry land, dog-powered sport called Urban Mushing.  Her dogs were more than happy to give us a demo and before we knew it they were harnessed up and ready to pull.  Kathy and her team were busy training for the upcoming Iron Paws event.  I must confess, Iron Paws brought a smile to my face.  As we bid farewell, it struck me yet again that there are countless ways for people and pets to get outside and play!

Urban Musher and her dog team

We planned our route for the day to take us along the dyke trails on the both the north and south side of the Vedder river and Vedder canal.  This loop was scenic, flat and fascinating!

View of the Vedder Canal

We departed the parking lot and as we pedaled we could hear distant rumblings.  At first we thought there must be blasting going on in the area but soon we discovered we were nearing the Abbotsford Fish and Game Club.  Judging by the noise, it was clearly a busy day on the range!

Dark Sky Park courtesy of the Fraser Valley Astronomers Society

After cycling past McDonald park, we passed by an Astronomy Viewing Area, and joked about the "mini Stonehenge" in the background.  We later discovered that McDonald Park is officially designated a dark sky park with the hopes of offering views of the Night sky, minus light pollution, for many years to come.  The Fraser Valley Astronomers Society host educational programs and events at the park throughout the year.

Vedder South Dyke Trail marker

The trail was very well marked, easy to follow and yes - FLAT!

Heavily treed area of the trail

Although the trail was on a dyke and flat, we were pleasantly surprised by the variety.  From open farmland to tight, twisting turns through forested areas, the trail was an interesting ride....and did I mention FLAT?

Snow capped mountains and cherry blossoms mark an early spring

River view

Scenic viewpoint along the dyke trail

It was quite a busy day on both the trail and on the river.  At every turn we stumbled upon another fisher in search of Steelhead trout. 

The Steelhead seem to be facing big odds 

Log Jams - Paddlers beware!

During a quick lunch break we had the pleasure of meeting Dave.  Clearly, Dave had spent many an hour on the river.  He shared stories of his big catches and of course the one that got away.  He did manage to catch a record breaking 41 pound Steelhead earlier this year and delighted us with pictures of the catch.  He recommended Steelybeads as the bait of choice and Fishbum as the apparel of choice. I am embarrassed to say that at times we had no idea what he was talking about, but he spoke with unbridled passion and enthusiasm so we listened intently!  Maybe, it is time for us to take some of Dave's advice and explore fishing by kayak?

Hmmm.....should kayak fishing be next?

Giggle of the day:

As we made our way along the south dyke trail we stumbled upon a retired gentleman out fishing for the day.  He was the picture of happiness....deep laugh lines marked his weather beaten face.  We chatted for a while about the trail and the river and then the conversation turned to fishing.  He was out looking for Steelhead and to quote, "the fish taste like $@%# this time of year, but my wife doesn't nag me or give me jobs when I am out fishing.  And best of all if I catch something, I don't have to pay for dinner!"


Maps and Route Tips:


The trail for the most part is hard packed gravel, best suited for touring or mountain bikes.

Great ride for families, especially along the Rotary Trail in Chilliwack which features a virtual tour.  (another example of technology in the outdoors)

Be sure to check out the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve

Parks and Trails in Chilliwack

Trans Canada Trail

Fishing the Vedder River