On a record-breaking hot day in Portland I drove into the higher reaches of the Lewis River Basin.

The area lies south and east of Mt. St. Helens. I was looking forward to some respite from the hot weather, and the opportunity to take photos of waterfalls.

As all photographers discover, bright sunshine and waterfalls don’t make a good combination for taking photos. If you try to slow down the shutter speed, the water blows out (turns bright white). Contrast is always the enemy of good photo.

Nevertheless, I took a few photos of 50-foot Lower Lewis River Falls using a fence post for a tripod.

Then it was up to Oldman Pass, one of the best views of Mt. St. Helens that can be had.

On a cloudy day I plan to return and hike the stretch of the Lewis River that passes three large waterfalls.