It is nice to have a blog space open every now and again to be able to share a very recent outing... so recent in fact that I took these images this morning and already have a few of them edited.  
 

JHP__160607__0073Eagle Creek Area, Columbia River Gorge
 

Today I had to make a run to the Portland Airport at 3 AM so I took the opportunity to head up to the Columbia Gorge for the first rays of light in the Eagle Creek Recreation Area. As grueling as it may sound the very best part is I didn't see one other human in the woods until 9:30 at which point they poured up the trail like a flood due to the fact that it is THE MOST POPULAR trail for locals and out-of -owner's alike in the Columbia Gorge. The parking lot is buried in behind the fish hatchery at exit 41 (East bound only) on highway 84.  A Northwest Forest Parking Pass is required and can be obtained with cash onsite for $5.  
 

JHP__160607__0113_4_5Eagle Creek Rec Area, Wooden Foot Bridge
 

The trail connects to a network of other gorge trails and indirectly to the PCT.  The most popular section of trail heads to punchbowl falls which sits about 2 miles from the trailhead.  The trail was created in the early 1900's with dynamite and remains nearly unchanged today.  The trail  to the falls is wide most of the way and carries a gentle slope.  Some spots get narrow, steep and slippery. Hand cables have been installed for those who are nervous and for safety around the cliffs.  
 

JHP__160607__0216Metlako Falls, Eagle Creek Area, Columbia River Gorge
 

This is Metlako Falls - first of the falls along the path into the woods.  Unfortunately, you cannot get very close to this large horsetail and the brush on the hillside threatens the view.  On this morning I did not hike beyond Punchbowl Falls (the next falls on the trail) but two other popular destinations are Tunnel Falls at 7 miles and Wahtum Lake at 13 miles from the trailhead.  The trail is not particularly difficult but beyond Tunnel Falls it is mostly just a walk in the forest.  For the avid and motivated hiker, Wahtum Lake can be done in one day round trip... I have done it myself and YES, I was exhausted! Be warned there often can be snow lingering late into the season at the lake.   
 

JHP__160607__0210Eagle Creek Area, Columbia River Gorge
 

The trail is full of life.  Many varieties of vegetation and birds are guaranteed as plentiful water cascades from the hills and collects in the Eagle Creek drainage.  I enjoyed seeing lots of this fern,  I believe it is a type of Maidenhair Fern.   Not sure what the purple flower is.... any guesses leave a comment!
 

JHP__160607__0188_9PunchBowl Falls on Eagle Creek, Columbia River Gorge, OR.
 

This was one of my favorites of today and my main purpose for taking this trail.  Punchbowl Falls is an often photographed and visited spot. This image was taken on an extended exposure with a neutral density filter. I am really happy with the result and glad to add this iconic spot to my image library!  To get here be sure to take a side trail marked for "lower punchbowl." 
 

JHP__160607__0113_4_5PunchBowl Falls on Eagle Creek, Columbia River Gorge, OR.
 

Here was my turn-around point today. The viewpoint from atop Punchbowl Falls where Eagle Creek makes its way between the basalt rock into a deep emerald pool before making its way towards the grotto space of lower falls.  I hope you enjoyed the quick outing into the forest today and maybe you will share with me the places you like to go!  Have a nice week and enjoy the outdoors this summer :-)
 

This is a small highlight of my favorite images encompassing this theme.  By clicking on any of these images you can be directed to a larger, theme oriented, gallery which I invite you to visit! 
 

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