Lolo Pass, OR. Mile 2112

As I walk into the last stretch of Oregon I'm overcome with the feeling of being homeward bound. Surrounded with familiar forests and smells, I become teary eyed with a sense of belonging.

It would not be the Pacific Northwest if it did not rain. Everything vibrates with such life when it is wet. Ragnar did not seem to mind the bath.

Evening approaches on the decent into Timothy Lake Basin. The fog appears in a meadow after the evening shower. The mysticism of the moment was palpable. 

A shy salamander slithers away as I attempt to take his picture.

This is a picture of Little Crater Lake. It is an approximately 45 ft deep spring. It was a beautiful blue hue at its depths. Despite being unable to capture it clearly; she did provide a wonderful reflection of her crowning trees.

Morning dew drips. Water. The essence that keeps us going. So perfectly still and beautiful in this one instance. 

Feeling timid about entering this part of the woods! I laughed out loud for a good moment.

There is something to be said for sunlight filtering through an Oregonian forest. It is hard to photograph, making its in person magic even more potent. 

My first glance at Mt Hood. With no one but Ragnar to chat with, I holler emphatically if he has seen the mountain.  He stops and humors me with a long stare. 

We made it to the highest point the PCT goes on Mt Hood. Only 498 miles to go. I am below 650. It is surreal. 

Timberline Lodge. So fantastic. Was well worth every penny spent to dine and stay the night.

For the last 18 miles of Oregon we are joined by Scott. We both cannot fully express how grateful we are to this man and sooooo happy he is with us. 

Ramona Falls. Quintessential Northwestern Oregon. Oh the moss.

So wonderful to be with this man. He has been the best support a girl and her dog can ask for. The endless packages and support he has supplied. 

This image is becoming all to familiar. This is the Gorge fire that was started by firecrackers. It is horribly sad. Fortunately, nature is resilient and she will bounce back.