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.

Totem Pole near the Marquam Trail

Low-lying clouds spoiling the view from Council Crest

Sacajewea statue at Council Crest

A sure sign of living in an older part of town

Marquam Trail

Life from death

Crow doing the two-step

Gray Jay with a tasty morsel