Boise, ID to Portland, OR
We didn't rush to leave Boise this morning. After sleeping in a tent for so many days, we were still recovering. Carl and I got a late start at 10 AM and didn't plan to stop much on the way. However, eventually we got hungry and decided to pull into La Grande, OR for lunch. We found a solid meal at Sub Shop, a local favorite. Carl and I both orded massive "subs" (I nearly ordered a "hoagie" but caught myself), soup and iced tea. Reenergized, we were on the road in no time for another 5 hours of driving.
Almost suddenly, we were driving through an area known as the Columbia River Gorge. This scenic highway curves along the Columbia River and has incredible views of nearby mountains, river dams, and kite surfers. Yes, kite surfers. There was all sort of action happening in the river. Swarms of kite and wind surfers took advantage of high winds that pass through the Columbia River Gorge. Though, most impressive was Mt. Hood. When we were still 50 miles away, we could catch glimpses of the mountain poking its head up over the horizon.
We didn't rush to leave Boise this morning. After sleeping in a tent for so many days, we were still recovering. Carl and I got a late start at 10 AM and didn't plan to stop much on the way. However, eventually we got hungry and decided to pull into La Grande, OR for lunch. We found a solid meal at Sub Shop, a local favorite. Carl and I both orded massive "subs" (I nearly ordered a "hoagie" but caught myself), soup and iced tea. Reenergized, we were on the road in no time for another 5 hours of driving.
Almost suddenly, we were driving through an area known as the Columbia River Gorge. This scenic highway curves along the Columbia River and has incredible views of nearby mountains, river dams, and kite surfers. Yes, kite surfers. There was all sort of action happening in the river. Swarms of kite and wind surfers took advantage of high winds that pass through the Columbia River Gorge. Though, most impressive was Mt. Hood. When we were still 50 miles away, we could catch glimpses of the mountain poking its head up over the horizon.
A glimpse at Mt. Hood
The Columbia River Gorge is also home to the Historic Columbia River Highway. Although eventually replaced by the massive I-84, the Historic Columbia River Highway was a civic achievement of its time. It snakes up and down hills alongside the Columbia River, and is still well-maintained. Carl and I took a short detour to drive this impressive highway. Glad we did too! Before getting back onto I-84, we stopped in Mosier, OR (pop. 400) to buy Ranier cherries at $2/lb.
View from above of the Historic Columbia River Highway
Carl snacking on some delicious Ranier cherries
Even though it was an intense day of travel, Carl and I saw quite a bit. From curvy highway to waterfalls, the Columbia River Gorge is a scenic way to pass through northern Oregon. After arriving in Portland, we checked into our hotel and then headed downtown for a seafood dinner at Jake's Famous Crawfish. We had great food -- Carl even liked the salmon I ordered.
Drew at Horsetail Falls
Anyway, can't wait for tomorrow. We drive the final 80 mile stretch to catch a glimpse at the Pacific Ocean.
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