As I hike through the West Hills of Portland, the old stairways to homes built in the hillside always catch my attention. These days many of the stairways are falling into disrepair. Homeowners use other means to access their homes.

And, near the winter solstice there are always a few crows, small songbirds and squirrels.

There is much of interest to be seen, but one has to work harder for it than in the beautiful days of summer.

One-legged Crow

Stairs have almost disappeared

Pine Squirrel

New growth of Licorice Fern

Song Sparrow

Marquam Trail