For as far north as Portland is, north of the 45th Parallel, it typically receives mild weather during the winter. The first Saturday of the New Year was no exception.
I decided to take advantage of the mid-30’s degree temperatures and do a loop hike from home to Council Crest, the highest point in the City.
Southwest Urban Trail no. 6 to the Marquam Trail was the first leg of the hike. I can always tell when I reach the Marquam Trail by the totem pole near the road. Then it was up and onward to the top of Council Crest.
Unlike a few days ago when I could see far north to Mt. Baker, the low-lying clouds obscured most of the view. But, I couldn’t complain, it was too nice a day. After watching a murder of crows foraging for food, I finished the loop hike to home.
What a pleasant way to spend a n hour or so. And it provided some exercise too – – – 3.7 miles and 700 feet of elevation gain.
Your “Life from death” photo looks familiar! See: http://www.flickr.com/photos/7230309@N05/6827696673/ (your photo is better than mine, of course)
It looks very familiar. The Marquam Trail always has interesting sites along the way.