Welches, Oregon: Mirror Lake Trail

Early morning 8 mile round trip hike that climbed 1400' to Tom Dick Harry Mountain past Mirror Lake.

The lake reflects Mt Hood and is a peaceful idyll.

Even more spectacular though is cresting the rocky summit of Tom Dick Harry at 5066', to have the 360 degree view of the Cascade Range and 5 volcanic peaks - Mt Jefferson, Mt Hood, Mt Adams, Mt St Helens and Mt Rainier.

What a big bang for your buck hike, we all loved it.

missing Harry?

What a backyard we have at this timeshare in Welches, Oregon.

Mt Hood: Alpine Glow

An impromptu decision to take an evening drive along the Lolo Pass to Lost Lake to watch a sunset over  Mt Hood, saw us standing at the well known reflection vantage point with the view over the lake to the imposing volcanic peak.

As the sun sets the 'alpine glow' show starts, the warm yellow glow of the snow transitions to shades of pink and purple. Quite beautiful, worth the single track drive along the pass and getting back to our unit at midnight.

Mt Hood sunset over Lost Lake, Oregon 

Portland, Oregon: Beervana

More than 50 breweries make Portland a mecca for all sorts of beers, ales and ciders.

We hopped off the Big Pink and found a trendy spot in the Pearl District, where industrial buildings have been renovated into retail space, breweries and cool restaurants.

The orders of giant Cobb Salads and delicious beers made for four happy travelers.

Portland, Oregon: City of Roses

A hop on and hop off on the Big Pink to experience some of Portland.And particularly a wander around the renowned Rose Garden, a visual treat.