Adventures
Wallowa Lake Tramway
The Wallowa Lake Tramway, located near Joseph in Eastern Oregon within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, is highlighted as the steepest four-person aerial gondola in the U.S. (or North America). This recreational tramway takes passengers on a spectacular 15-minute ride up a 3700-foot ascent to the summit of Mount Howard, reaching an elevation of over 8,100 feet. From the top, visitors can experience awe-inspiring panoramic views that may include four states, the Eagle Cap Wilderness, and the Wallowa Valley, and they can also enjoy approximately two miles of hiking trails and dine at the Summit Grill, known as the Northwest’s highest restaurant. The tramway typically operates from May to September, with occasional operations during winter for special occasions.
Wallowa Lake - JO Paddle’s Glass Bottom Kayak
The crystal clear water of Wallowa Lake provides a unique opportunity to explore the lake in a glass-bottom kayak. JO Paddle is a wonderful, family-owned business in Joseph, Oregon. The kayaks are clear plexiglass rather than glass, but the view is quite spectacular. The clear bottoms allow you to have a clear view below the surface without the choppy, wind-whipped surface getting in the way. It was a neat experience.
Cape Falcon Trail & Overlook
Cape Falcon Trail, a moderately challenging 4.5-mile out-and-back trail located in Oswald West State Park between Manzanita and Cannon Beach, Oregon, is a popular choice for hikers seeking breathtaking ocean views. The trail is mostly level and wide, meandering through lush, green vegetation and offering glimpses of the ocean through the trees. Hikers can enjoy the shade provided by the thick canopy of trees and the refreshing ocean breeze as they make their way to the Cape Falcon Lookout. From the lookout, on a clear day, visitors can see north to Tillamook Head and south to Cape Lookout. However, reaching the lookout can sometimes be challenging due to overgrown vegetation or obstacles along the trail.
Jump Creek Falls Trail
Jump Creek Falls is a short, less-than-a-mile hike along primarily easy terrain. We visit this location about once a year, mainly so we have an excuse to visit The Orchard House for burgers afterward. However, this time, we have a new adventure buddy joining us.
Meet Asa! She is a 2-year-old Shiba-Inu who we adopted from the Humane Society less than a week ago. She has been doing great and has stolen our hearts. We hope to take her on more adventures, but we are learning what she can do, and this little hike is a significant beginning step.
Asa started out a little timid, and the groups of people and other dogs concerned her. By the time we started making our way out, she had a skip in her step. We are so proud of her and are already planning our next adventure.
Bridalveil Falls Trail
Bridalveil Falls Trail is in the Sawtooth Wilderness in central Idaho. Nearing 9 miles, this there-and-back trail has gorgeous views of a creek, woods, hills, and the inspirational Sawtooth Mountains. After a difficult scramble up a steep incline, hikers are rewarded with a beautiful, small waterfall. The trail is mostly flat except for the scramble to the waterfall. Two water crossings may not be crossable in the early summer during peak melt. Another waterfall, Lady Face Falls, can be seen along the way with a slight detour.