Bitterroot: Catherine Creek, WA
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The famous bitterroot is blooming! It looks like delicate little cactus flowers tucked into the rocks like pink Easter eggs. Bright fushia penstemons, deep blue camas, and all the colors of rainbow are out there, too. The Catherine Creek Universal Access Trail is, hands down, one of the highest rated wildflower spots in the gorge.
A winding, paved route takes you on a tour of varied terrains along the sunny Washington side of the Columbia River. Black Oak and Ponderosa pine decorate basalt outcroppings where California Ground Squirrels bask in the sun like furry logs. Grassy slopes and little drainages are packed with over 90 varieties of wildflowers throughout the growing season. Mock orange and wild rose bushes collect colorful birds like Varied Thrush, Lazuli Bunting, and Lewis's woodpecker, not to mention sundry raptors--I've seen Golden Eagles!
The panoramic view of the Columbia River is jaw-dropping and Mt. Hood is prominent. Catherine Creek Falls is frothy in spring and frogs are usually in chorus. The air smells perfumed, like an exotic blend of sweat pea and freshly mown hay. This is the kind of place you want to just sit and linger.
We'll meet at my deep blue CRV in the parking area and then slowly walk the 1.5 mi. paved trail loop. There are a few benches at viewpoints where we can pause to soak up the ambience. Sections of the trail are on an incline but we will be stopping often for wildflower/bird photography and ID.
Those who want a few more miles can then do the Catherine Creek Arch Loop north of the parking area.
Hood River Bridge Toll: The bridge is now fully electronic. Either sign up for BreezeBy and put a transponder on your car, or simply drive across the bridge and then go to this site to pay online within 14 days. Wait longer than that, and they'll tack on a fee. Toll rates here. If you want to avoid all that, just take Highway 14 all the way there.
Bring $10 (cash only), water, snacks, binoculars, camera equipment, and WEATHER appropriate clothing (full sun and wind exposure). Restroom facility on site. Adults only, please, and no pets, thanks.