The pungent smell of sagebrush brought a smile to my face, and conjured up many memories of my youth.
Cottonwood Canyon sits in a deep canyon of the John Day River, one of our nation’s longest free-flowing rivers.
The park has 8,000-plus acres for hiking, fishing and exploring the interesting landscape.
The Pinnacles Trail follows the west side of the John Day River downstream for approximately 4 1/2 miles.
The wildflowers, butterflies and the ever-changing lighting on the tall, basalt cliffs kept me entertained for the the four-hour outing.
A great place to visit. I will return soon.
Sara’s Orangetip Butterfly
Yellow wildflowers brightening the canyon walls
The trail, an old ranch road, cut out of the canyon walls
Morning Cloak Butterfly
Fiddleneck
Mt. Adams on return trip from hike
Echo Azure Butterfly
Biscuit Root
John Day River
Game trail heading up into the upper cliffs
Giant windmills, a ubiquitous site on the return trip from the hike
Sheridan’s Green Haristreak Butterfly (thanks for the ID Caitlin)
A breathtaking hike through Cottonwood Canyon, John. I appreciate your meticulous work on identification (it can be daunting), and your photos are such a pleasure. I loved this spring bonanza.
Thanks much. Knowing the names of wildflowers, butterflies and such adds a lot to any outdoor adventure.