Thanks to Mark Hudon for info on Gorge wildflower conditions before I did a spur of the moment trip over the weekend. For anyone else interested in the flowers, I found that the balsamroot in the McCall preserve at Rowena (upper and lower) was definitely done for the year, and lupine were just so-so.
On the Washington side, there were nice clumps of several kinds of wildflowers along the trails at Catherine Creek. No masses of color, but bright spots in the fields of dried grasses.
Dog Mountain, however, was awesome. From the first lookout on up to the summit the open areas were covered in flowers. Balsamroot looked like it was maybe a couple of days past absolute prime, but still very nice. Lupine, paintbrush and phlox just now getting great. Unfortunately, despite a forecast for calm winds, by the time I got as far as the first meadow the wind was very strong and constant, so I only took a few record shots. Still worth the hike.
Thanks for posting this, Greg - I'm heading to Portland (from Ashland) today for a 4-day seminar, with some extra time to explore. I believe we met at Rainier - Reflection Lakes last July. Art W was around. I've meant to get back to you, well here we are.
Just googled Dog Mtn and got the location of the trailhead. Looks like the weather will be better suited for waterfalls, however.
Hi Dane. Yes, I remember meeting you at Reflection Lake. I thought that was great that Art was just kind of hanging out talking to all the photographers in between checks of his remote camera.
The waterfalls in the Gorge are excellent right now, too. Lots of water in the creeks and the foliage is lush and green.
I was up on Dog Mt Sunday night for a windy and foggy hike. The Balsamroot were about 4-5 days past their prime, but the flox and paintbrush were looking great.
Discussion
3 repliesOn the Washington side, there were nice clumps of several kinds of wildflowers along the trails at Catherine Creek. No masses of color, but bright spots in the fields of dried grasses.
Dog Mountain, however, was awesome. From the first lookout on up to the summit the open areas were covered in flowers. Balsamroot looked like it was maybe a couple of days past absolute prime, but still very nice. Lupine, paintbrush and phlox just now getting great. Unfortunately, despite a forecast for calm winds, by the time I got as far as the first meadow the wind was very strong and constant, so I only took a few record shots. Still worth the hike.
Just googled Dog Mtn and got the location of the trailhead. Looks like the weather will be better suited for waterfalls, however.
Dane
Hi Dane. Yes, I remember meeting you at Reflection Lake. I thought that was great that Art was just kind of hanging out talking to all the photographers in between checks of his remote camera.
The waterfalls in the Gorge are excellent right now, too. Lots of water in the creeks and the foliage is lush and green.
David M. Cobb