In mid-February I was in the east end of the Columbia River Gorge and decided to take a side trip to The Dalles Mountain Ranch. In a couple of months the hillsides in the area will be covered with golden balsamroot and purple lupine.
But, there were only a few scattered purple grass widows to be seen. Still, it’s always a shock to see wildflowers so early in the year.
The views to the south were spectacular with Mt. Hood dominating the skyline.
Not long later I was in the Dundee area visiting a few wineries. The rows of dormant grape vines at the Erath Vineyard were a reminder that new growth and a new season of wine making would soon be beginning.
Terrific photos, John. Thanks for sharing. Have you been to Post Canyon? I’m heading up there Friday with Trailmix. It’s a great area.
Post Canyon? I thought that was set up for mountain bikes.
We live in a beautiful state! I love the sunshine-y photos.
It is a beautiful area. From the Ocean Shore to the Columbia Gorge, there’s always something wonderful to see and photograph.