Winter Sports: Mt. Hood Area X-Ski, February 26
We took a circuit route, down towards Trillium Lake from Government Camp, on to Snow Bunny and back to Government Camp via West Leg Road. It snowed lightly off and on but skiing was good, i.e. the snow was generally non-icy and breaking trail was easy. One of our members was a “beginner” and we quickly figured this person couldn’t keep up. So, four of us completed the circuit, while Betsy Belshaw graciously offered to work with the beginner on a shorter route. This beginner made noteworthy progress in skill! Participants included: D. Baihuber, G. Taylor, J. Zeller, B. Belshaw, D. Gallagher, and P. Anderson (ldr.).

Shellburg Falls, February 29
A surprising dry weather window brought out 12 folks and allowed us a pleasant hike to Shellburg and Stasal Falls and surrounding forests. George S. was the life of the party demonstrating his amazing fire building skills (yes, in a fire pit!) at our lunch stop at the new campground. The falls were lovely with a large volume of water. Hikers were R. Garrison, C & J Adelman, C. Maurer, B. Shawn, M. Hoak, B. Stoyles, G. Susbauer, C. Hernandez and leader A. Hernandez. Guests were Judith Zineski, Chris Garrett and Eric Destival.

Annual Chemeketan Banquet, March 6
What a wonderful evening of socializing! Our ’75th’ banquet, ca-tered by Roth’s and held in West Salem, was most enjoyable. Lee Slattum presented several 10-MILE HIGH awards, congratulations to those hikers! Our speaker, Michael Lampert, did a phenomenal job with his stories, experiments, digital power-point presentation, and many many hands-on items, associated with his recent trip to Antarctica. If you knew nothing about Ross Island or McMurdo Station where most of Michael’s work took place, you left the eve-ning with a good understanding of the effects chemicals have on our environment, and most importantly, the Ozone. The presenta-tion ended with Michael actually producing ozone with a weapon-looking instrument using the metal on one of our chairs! We were also treated to small clips and photos of the penguin life in Antarc-tica, very interesting little creatures! Thank you Mr. Lampert and to all that attended this special evening!

Tryon Creek State Park Dawdler, March 10
Trillium bouquets, the first of the season, greeted nine Cheme-ketans with smiles on the Trillium Trail in Tryon Creek SP. Warm sunshine, fresh air and moments of gentle peace relieved stir-crazy feelings and lifted blue spirits from winter doldrums. We trod the trails trying not to repeat our tracks in a park where paths wind over one another like spaghetti on a plate. Carefully, we managed to find our way successfully through the park and back to the Na-ture Center to make our five miles. A surprise visit from a Pileated Woodpecker in full view offered D. Reiley a "life bird" sighting for the trip and, for the rest of us, a visual thrill for the day. Hikers happy to be outdoors after a long, cold and wet winter were mem-bers, D. Reiley, K. Patterson, K. Swenson, J. Kerns, W. Grafe, J. Stevens, and guests, Tracy Wolf Paquin and son, Kai. Leader was M. Narey.

Hamilton Mountain Hike, March 13
The weather was good for a hike, high clouds, and not too hot (or not too cold considering it was still early March). The faithful Gorge winds blew, but not all the time, and the views of Mt Hood and Mt Adams were spectacular. Our greatest surprise was meeting up with Pat Clancy on our way down the back side. He had looked for us several places and was able to complete the hike with us after he had already summited after us. Hikers were C Backen, F Knox, R Cooper, J Voelker, B Voelker, B Knox, B Fukada, G Susbauer, P Clancy, and leader Jakey Ross

Bald Hill/Mulkey Creek Hike, March 14
We substituted the Bald Hill/Mulkey Creek hike for the scheduled Dimple Hill hike because the last 2 ½ miles of trail were closed by severe blowdown in the January ice storm. Jerri O’Brien of Cor-vallis suggested this great hike of about eight miles with about 500’ of elevation gain. The forecast was for showers, but the clouds held off and we had lovely sunny skies and great views from the top of Bald Hill. We heard singing winter wrens, song sparrows, and saw an early arriving turkey vulture soaring overhead. Leader K. Patterson, co-leader Jerri O’Brien, J. Webb, and D. Clayton.

Willamette Mission State Park, March 17
A perfect, sunny day for a hike. We started at the new upper level trail, walked along the slough to the Wheatland ferry, rode the ferry round trip, then returned along the Willamette River and the new trail along the western portion of the slough, making a six-mile loop. Guest: Silvia Anderson; Members: J. Templar, D. Herron, P. Simila (leader). There was an adjunct hike in the Park by three Chemeketans who met at the right time but at the wrong place.

Drift Creek North, March 17
St. Patrick’s Day was an appropriate day for a hike in the very green coastal forest. Having lived in Oregon for only 43 years, I am still amazed and delighted at how green the Oregon forests are during the winter; Pennsylvania was nothing like this! We had su-perb weather, and multitudes of trilliums and wood violets. We enjoyed each other’s company too, for a very satisfying day. Guests Cliff Cooper, Jerri O’Brien, and Judith Zineski, and G. Struble, ldr

Catherine Creek Hike, March 18
The weather was overcast but it did not really rain until we were in the car heading back. There were many wildflowers but we may have been a week early for a real profusion. We hiked to the up-per plateau and came back through the rock arch. Attending were B. Knox, P. Ewing, L. Schellin, M. Narey, D. Baihuber, J. Stevens, and leader F. Knox.

Dog and Wind Mts., March 20
This was a double-peak day, involving an elevation gain of 4000 feet, an early-season challenge. Dog Mt. was first. After fifteen minutes on the Augspurger Trail, we removed our jackets; it was so warm. Later, as we began approaching the expansive mead-ows famous for their late-spring flower shows, we could hear the wind pushing menacingly through the trees. We put our jackets back on. On the summit, however, the wind seemed almost warm and friendly as we ate our lunches with the awesome Columbia Gorge stretched below us on this clear, sunny day. We did not linger; Wind Mt. was calling. A quick drive had us at the next trail-head. A strong, shifting wind was our greeter. On the summit, a fierce, pushy wind made us feel like intruders on this American Indian religious site known for its quest pits nestled in the steep, talus-rocked slopes. A quick retreat was in order. At the Salmon Row Pub in Cascade Locks, we celebrated our major accom-plishment. Our legs were full of fatigue, but the soreness, as you know, wouldn’t come till tomorrow. Hikers were Phillips, Gabriel, Garrison, Knopp, Cunningham, guest Stingle, and Slattum

Craig Lake XCountry Ski and Snowshoe, March 20
It doesn’t get much better than this for a Chemeketan winter out-ing: sunny weather, good snow, and good people, all twelve of us. Craig Lake sets on the SE lip of a mesa, bordered on three sides by steep slopes. From our lunch site near lakeside, one could look north to Three Fingered Jack and the tip of Jeff. To the east you could look straight down on the B & B Complex burn and Eastern Oregon. To the south we could see the entire Cascade range, clear to Diamond Peak. To the west, we viewed Maxwell Butte and Craig Butte. Very few lakes provide such views, both above and below. Our two skilled skiers were S. Watkins and S. Breen. ‘Shoers were K. ! Timberlake, R. Shirack, J. DeMay, B. Anning, L. Willnow, D. Carter, R. Nafziger, guests Lou and Jeff Schwab, and leader, B Geibel.

Cape Falcon HIke, March 21
Eight hikers convened in Salem for the long drive, two-and-a-half hours, to Oswald West State Park on the Oregon coast and Cape Falcon where the group increased to eleven. We quickly found our way to the 70-foot suspension bridge and spread out single file across it for a group picture, then headed to the beach, the trail-head and scenic ocean views. Along the way to the cape, Ken Wilber, an experienced wilderness survival teacher, taught the group about edible and non-edible plants. He also made an arrow of tree branches to point the way to the lunch site for a few late arrivals. Early birds were concealed behind salal atop the cape. On the way home, hikers treated themselves to a snack at Clover-dale, Ken’s stomping ground. Participating old-growth enthusiasts were, guests Ryan Good and Shannon Tennant, and members, E. Abler, S. Sanazaro, E. Person, J. Gleason, P. Hyatt, B. Bishoprick, B. Pierce, K. Wilbur and leader, M. Narey.

Lower Salmon River Trail, March 22
T-shirt weather greeted us as we enjoyed the Lower Salmon River Trail in the Mt. Hood Nat’l Forest. We gawked at some beautiful old growth Doug fir and red cedar and spotted the first trilliums and violets on this six mile hike. Members were: B. Snead and J. Sigleer. Guests: Judy, Russ, and Ray Loewen.

Silver Creek Falls Hike, March 24
We hiked the trail of nine falls as one falls, Lower South, is blocked off due to trail damage from January storms. We detoured via the Pine Ridge Trail. There were lots of spring wildflowers and inter-mittent rain enjoyed by D. Clayton, leader, D. Hulick, and S. Sanazaro, members. We were treated to an unusual sight on the way home, a loose ostrich off the highway by Stayton.

Dublin Lake Hike, March 27
Where there’s a will, hikers seem to find a way. Five brave and daring Chemeketans headed out to find Dublin Lake, a difficult hike made even more difficult by the conditions this year. Luckily, Lee had done the hike before; he showed us a short-cut to the trailhead since the gate was closed and we couldn’t drive to it. Lee appointed himself the sweep, but to keep him under control, we had him strap on ankle weights. The trail was beautiful, as we admired four lacy, 20-foot waterfalls. Shortly after the junction to Wauna Point, we started getting into some snow. With intermittent snow on the ground and blow-down, it was challenging to stay on the trail and out of holes. With route-finding assistance from Ron and only one missed-turn on our trek, we made it to the snow-covered Dublin Lake to enjoy our lunch among peaceful and pris-tine scenery. We opted for following our tracks out rather than the return loop I had originally envisioned. A marginally-doable March hike of 3,750 foot elevation gain, but doable it was! This adventur-ous and determined group included Allowitz, Truneckova, Webb, Slattum and leader Gabriel.

Silver Creek Falls Hike, March 28
Three Chemeketans and one guest enjoyed a beautiful spring day with lots of wildflowers, people, and dogs. After lunch at the lodge and a trail detour along the Pine Ridge Trail, we descended the trail to South Falls and then back to the top to return to the car at North Falls parking lot. Hikers were D. Clayton, leader, M. Hoag, M. Zogg, members, and Paul Fandrei, guest.

Catherine Creek, April 3
The weather cooperated with a nice sunny day for the recent gorge hike to Catherine Creek. From the trailhead we hiked up-ward until we obtained a magnificent view of Mt. Hood. We then stopped for lunch and returned via the notch in the cliff route. Al-though the Grass Widows were nearly all gone we did see ap-proximately 40 different wildflowers as per our recorder, B. Anning. We were all grateful for the extensive wildflower list for many of the flowers in this area supplied to us by J. Savage. We also saw several Lewis Woodpeckers, and a mature Bald Eagle provided company during lunch. The happy hikers were members B. An-ning, D. Foulger, S. Wright, J. DeMay, L. Willnow, D. Stoltz, L. Abrahamson, T. Hutchison, J. McHuff, B. Geibel, D. Clayton, B. Richardson, leader D. Carter and guest B. Heiser.

Depoe Bay Bouillabaisse, April 3-4
This was a case of quality, not quantity. Six people had to be the lowest attendance we have ever had at a Bouillabaisse but the weather was great, the food abundant and more than tasty, and the company scintillating. The cost of the Depoe Bay Community Hall was low enough that we stayed in the black financially and we were glad we tried the revival. Next year? Probably not. Partici-pants were A & I Mayer, D & M Madson, and leaders P & K Hyatt.

Mt. Bachelor/Smith Rocks - Pole, Pedal & Pro, April 3-4
It started on a sunny Saturday morning at Bachelor where 3 decided to work for their turns while the other 4 did reps on the lifts by following the sun around the mountain all morning to find the best snow to fill their tele desires. After the briefest of interludes, we headed to Bend and Paul led us through the single track heaven that is on the west side of town. That afternoon we did 15 miles of mountain biking in the single track complex right near Paul’s house. Our mechanical skills got a test when Keith’s rear derailer blew out half way through the ride. Perseverance proved important as it took longer to find the part than it did to fix it and get on our way. Some of us have had whole climbs saved by small amounts of duct tape so fixing a derailer for an afternoon ride wasn’t a big deal. Everyone raved about the 8 miles of downhill that featured perfectly banked turn after turn. Can you guess where we ended up for dinner on Sat. night in order to get the fourth P? Sunday we headed to Smith Rocks where we had a great day in the sun clipping bolts and trad climbing. We were really happy to support Jen on her first lead and learn all about flippers. Wow, I had no idea!! Fortunately for Jerry we were there to solve his work problem. What else are friends for? It was also a treat to finally meet Tom’s wife Gail. Thanks to Paul, Tom and Gail for opening up their beautiful houses for our use. It was a great weekend with some very fun people. Leader: K. Garling-house. Assistants: P. McClellan, J. Croft Members: J. Tschanz, H. Kutuk, J. Truax, T. Rodgers Guests: G.Rodgers.

Silver Creek Falls Hike, April 7
Three happy midweek hikers assembled for a loop walk. It was a cool spring day with many wildflowers to enjoy. The lodge had a fire burning while we visited for lunch. Those present were D. Carter, G. Susbauer, and K. Timberlake, ldr.

Cape Lookout Dawdler, April 10
Holy Moly, the whales WERE there!! Carmen G, Janet T, Diane C, Bryan H, and D. Wachtel dawdled to and dawdled fro, then for treats at Grateful Bread, THEN to Bob Straub's beach. Ah, bliss! Serenity now.

Drift Creek North , March 17
St. Patrick’s Day was an appropriate day for a hike in the very green coastal forest. Having lived in Oregon for only 43 years, I am still amazed at how green the Oregon forests are during the winter; Pennsylvania was nothing like this! We had superb weather too, and multitudes of trilliums and wood violets. We enjoyed each other’s company too, for a very satisfying day. Guests Cliff Cooper, Jerri O’Brien, and Judith Zineski, and G. Struble, ldr.

Catherine Creek Hike, March 18
The weather was overcast, but it did not really rain until we were in the car heading back. There were many wild flowers, but we may have been a week early for a real profusion. We hiked to the upper plateau and came back through the rock arch. Attending were B. Knox, P. Ewing, L. Schellin, M. Narey, D. Baihuber, J. Stevens, and leader F. Knox.

Dog and Wind Mts. Hike, March 20
This would be a double-peak day, involving an elevation gain of 4000 feet, an early-season challenge. Dog Mt. would be first. After fifteen minutes on the Augspurger Trail, it was so warm we removed our jackets. Later, as we began approaching the expansive meadows famous for their late spring flower shows, we could hear the wind pushing menacingly through the trees. We put our jackets back on. On the summit, however, the wind seemed almost warm and friendly as we ate our lunches with the awesome Columbia Gorge stretched below us on this clear, sunny day. We did not linger; Wind Mt. was calling. A quick drive had us at the next trailhead. A strong, shifting wind was our greeter. On the summit, a fierce, pushy wind made us feel like intruders on this American Indian religious site known for its quest pits nestled in the steep, talus-rocked slopes. A quick retreat was in order. At the Salmon Row Pub in Cascade Locks, we celebrated our major accomplishment. Our legs were full of fatigue, but the soreness, as you know, wouldn’t come till tomorrow. Hikers were Phillips, Gabriel, Garrison, Knopp, Cunningham, guest Stingle, and Slattum

Craig Lake X Country Ski and Snowshoe, March 20
It doesn’t get much better than this for a Chemeketan winter outing: sunny weather, good snow, and good people, all twelve of us. Craig Lake sits on the SE lip of a mesa, bordered on three sides by steep slopes. From our lunch site near lakeside, one could look north to Three Fingered Jack and the tip of Jeff. To the east you could look straight down on the B & B Complex burn and Eastern Oregon. To the south we could see the entire Cascade range, clear to Diamond Peak. To the west, we viewed Maxwell Butte and Craig Butte. Very few lakes provide such views, both above and below. As space is mandated and strictly enforced I must cease this narration. You can go to http://community.webshots.com/user/banjobill1 and view the “Craig Lake” album to get a better feel for this trip. Our two skilled skiers were S. Watkins and S. Breen. ‘Shoers were K. Timberlake, R. Shirack, J. DeMay, B. Anning, L. Willnow, D. Carter, R. Nafziger, guests Lou and Jeff Schwab, and leader, B. Geibel.

Cape Falcon HIke, March 21
Eight hikers convened in Salem for the long drive, two-and-a-half hours, to Oswald West State Park on the Oregon Coast and Cape Falcon, where the group increased to eleven. We quickly found our way to the 70-foot suspension bridge, spread out single file across it for a group picture, and then headed to the beach, the trailhead and scenic ocean views. Along the way to the cape, Ken Wilbur, an experienced wilderness survival teacher, taught the group about edible and non-edible plants. He also made an arrow of tree branches to point the way to the lunch site for a few late arrivals. Early birds were concealed behind salal atop the cape. On the way home, hikers treated themselves to a snack at Cloverdale, Ken’s stomping ground. Participating old-growth enthusiasts were, guests Ryan Good and Shannon Tennant, and members, E. Abler, S. Sanazaro, E. Person, J. Gleason, P. Hyatt, B. Bishoprick, B. Pierce, K. Wilbur and leader, M. Narey.

Lower Salmon River Trail, March 22
T-shirt weather greeted us as we enjoyed the Lower Salmon River Trail in the Mt. Hood Nat’l Forest. We gawked at some beautiful old growth Doug. fir and redcedar and spotted the first trilliums and violets on this six mile hike. Members were: B. Snead and J. Sigleer. Guests: Judy, Russ, and Ray Loewen.

Silver Creek Falls Hike, March 24
We hiked the trail of nine falls as one falls, Lower South, is blocked off due to trail damage from January storms. We detoured via the Pine Ridge Trail. There were lots of spring wildflowers and intermittent rain enjoyed by D. Clayton, leader, D. Hulick, and S. Sanazaro, members. We were treated to an unusual sight on the way home, a loose ostrich off the highway by Stayton.

Dublin Lake Hike, March 27
Where there’s a will, hikers seem to find a way. Five brave and daring Chemeketans headed out to find Dublin Lake, a difficult hike made even more difficult by the conditions this year. Luckily, Lee had done the hike before; he showed us a short-cut to the trailhead since the gate was closed and we couldn’t drive to it. Lee appointed himself the sweep, but to keep him under control, we had him strap on ankle weights. The trail was beautiful, as we admired four lacy, 20-foot waterfalls. Shortly after the junction to Wauna Point, we started getting into some snow. With intermittent snow on the ground and blow-down, it was challenging to stay on the trail and out of holes. With route-finding assistance from Ron and only one missed-turn on our trek, we made it to the snow-covered Dublin Lake to enjoy our lunch among peaceful and pristine scenery. We opted for following our tracks out rather than the return loop I had originally envisioned. A marginally-doable March hike of 3,750 foot elevation gain, but doable it was! This adventurous and determined group included Allowitz, Truneckova, Webb, Slattum and leader Gabriel.

Silver Creek Falls Hike, March 28
Three Chemeketans and one guest enjoyed a beautiful spring day with lots of wildflowers, people, and dogs. After lunch at the lodge and a trail detour along the Pine Ridge Trail, we descended the trail to South Falls and then back to the top to return to the car at North Falls parking lot. Hikers were D. Clayton, leader, M. Hoag, M. Zaugg, members, and Paul Fandrei, guest.

Catherine Creek Hike, April 3
The weather cooperated with a nice sunny day for the recent gorge hike to Catherine Creek. From the trailhead we hiked upward until we obtained a magnificent view of Mt. Hood. We then stopped for lunch and returned via the notch in the cliff route. Although the Grass Widows were nearly all gone, we did see approximately 40 different wildflowers as per our recorder, B. Anning. We were all grateful for the extensive wildflower list for many of the flowers in this area supplied to us by J. Savage. We also saw several Lewis Woodpeckers, and a mature Bald Eagle provided company during lunch. The happy hikers were members B. Anning, D. Foulger, S. Wright, J. DeMay, L. Willnow, D. Stoltz, L. Abrahamson, T. Hutchison, J. McHuff, B. Geibel, D. Clayton, B. Richardson, leader D. Carter and guest B. Heiser.

Depoe Bay Bouillabaisse, April 3-4
This was a case of quality, not quantity. Six people had to be the lowest attendance we have ever had at a Bouillabaisse but the weather was great, the food abundant and more than tasty, and the company scintillating. The cost of the Depoe Bay Community Hall was low enough that we stayed in the black financially, and we were glad we tried the revival. Next year? Probably not. Participants were A & I Mayer, D & M Madson, and leaders P & K Hyatt.

Mt. Bachelor/Smith Rocks - Pole, Pedal & Pro, April 3-4
It started on a sunny Saturday morning at Bachelor where 3 decided to work for their turns while the other 4 did reps on the lifts by following the sun around the mountain all morning to find the best snow to fill their tele desires. After the briefest of interludes, we headed to Bend and Paul led us through the single track heaven that is on the west side of town. That afternoon we did 15 miles of mountain biking in the single track complex right near Paul’s house. Our mechanical skills got a test when Keith’s rear derailer blew out half way through the ride. Perseverance proved important as it took longer to find the part than it did to fix it and get on our way. Some of us have had whole climbs saved by small amounts of duct tape so fixing a derailer for an afternoon ride wasn’t a big deal. Everyone raved about the 8 miles of downhill that featured perfectly banked turn after turn. Can you guess where we ended up for dinner on Sat. night in order to get the fourth P? Sunday we headed to Smith Rocks where we had a great day in the sun clipping bolts and trad climbing. We were really happy to support Jen on her first lead and learn all about flippers. Wow, I had no idea!! Fortunately for Jerry we were there to solve his work problem. What else are friends for? It was also a treat to finally meet Tom’s wife, Gail. Thanks to Paul, Tom and Gail for opening up their beautiful houses for our use. It was a great weekend with some very fun people. Leader: K.Garlinghouse. Assistants: P.McClellan, J.Croft Members: J.Tschanz, H.Kutuk, J.Truax, T.Rodgers Guests: G.Rodgers.

Camp Kilowan Dawdler, April 5
Nine of us ambled through the main part of the camp (which belongs to Willamette Council of Campfire Boys & Girls) viewing cabins and lodges, campfire circles, and recreation areas. We also tried out a few outlying trails but came to obstacles of one sort or another, mostly due to the January or later storms. We did manage to get to a viewpoint, sort of, for the 60’ falls. There is a group of Americorps workers, young people from all parts of the U.S., who are working there to repair some of the damage and to put the camp in shape for the coming camping season. Hikers were leader P. Hyatt, D. & R Reiley, C. Adelman, J. Kerns, D. Wachtel, D. Herron, J. Templar and guest Lena Kovacs.

Silver Creek Falls Hike, April 7
Three happy midweek hikers assembled for a loop walk. It was a cool spring day with many wildflowers to enjoy. The lodge had a fire burning while we visited for lunch. Those present were D. Carter, G. Susbauer, and K. Timberlake, ldr.

Tom McCall Preserve, March 28
A mostly sunny and breezy day for the 3 of us. Views of Mt Hood on Top of Tom McCall peak and of Mt. Adams. We hiked up the peak and down onto the peninsula above the dell around the ponds and to the edge overlooking the Columbia River where we had lunch. We saw MANY wildflowers, including Balsam Root, Yellow Bell, Desert Parsley, Yellow Parsley, Butter Cups, Oregon Grape, Oregon Gold, Indian Paintbrush, Candy Strip, Delphiniums, Lupine, Mary Little Mary, Shooting Stars and of course there was considerable poison oak. A great time. Leader M. Rieke & members C. Maurer and Alma Wells

Cape Lookout Dawdler, April 10
Holy Moly, the whales WERE there!! C. Gonzalez, J. Templar, D. Clayton, B. Heiser, and D. Wachtel dawdled to and dawdled fro, then for treats at Grateful Bread, THEN to Bob Straub's beach. Ah, bliss! Serenity now.

Little North Fork Hike, April 10
Great Hike!! Great Group!! Great Day!! Great Everything!!! The day was sunny and warm as nine of us set out from the Elkhorn Trailhead, hiked 4 1/2 miles to Shady Cove campground and back (nine miles total), with a total elevation gain of 1800 feet. Views of the clear, green river and surrounding mountains were terrific, and we saw several species of wildflowers, including Calypso orchid, many Oregon and avalanche lilies, toothwort, snowqueen, and oxalis. The trail was in good shape for the most part, but some major trail work is needed on the Shady Cove end, including removing large trees from the trail, and treadwork. What made this hike especially neat was that only two of us had been on this trail before. Happy hikers included guests Paul Fandrei and Linda Glazier, and members R&B Noble, S.Schmidt, R.King, J.McHuff, & leader E.Myers Please note that this was a second qualifying hike for Paul Fandrei and a first qualifying hike for Linda Glazier.

Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge Dawdlers, April 13
We fortunately had good weather with sun for excellent bird watching along the trail and in the lake. We saw many birds including green-wing teal, wood duck, red-tailed hawk, and 2 osprey on a nest. The eager birders included K. Swenson, P. Hyatt, and G. Taylor (ldr).

Dark Canyon Backpack, April 15-24
A description of this adventure in Utah is too difficult to fit in a few sentences. If you would like a full report, e-mail me at jdemay@linfield.edu, and I’ll send you my write-up. In addition to the backpack, we spent a day in the slot canyons of Goblin Valley and one in Arches. If you are looking for a spectacular and solitary backpacking destination, Dark Canyon fits the bill. If you can tolerate ambiguities of weather, water, and mileage, the rewards are great. Participants were P. Bond, D. Carter, B. Custer, A. King, M. Federspiel, B. Geibel, L. Willnow, guests Brian and Joyce Olson, leader J. DeMay.

Cascade Head Hike, April 17
Five fortunate souls experienced Cascade Head at its absolute best. We enjoyed calm, sunny weather as we hiked the Nature Conservancy Trail to the top. 2 deer, 2 bald eagles and 3 gray whales made their appearances just for us. Our group included B. Snead, S. Sanazaro, S. Schmidt, M. Bouchard and, on her second qualifier, Linda Glazier.

Indian Point, April 17
Indian Point, near Cascade Locks, seems to draw a healthy menagerie of Chemeketans wanting a snow-free spring hike with plenty of view-filled elevation gain. Enjoying sunshine, mild temperatures, and well-graded trail, we easily covered the four miles and 2600 feet of vertical to reach our terminus. From this narrow, exposed spine, we had views up and down the Columbia. I pointed out the visible points that we Chemeketans have hiked recently: Wind Mt., an American Indian quest site; Dog Mt., a wildflower haven; and Wygant Peak, a former lookout site. But there is a slide-scarred Shellrock Mt., opposite Wind, that we have not done. It juts a rock-strewn 1100 feet above the Columbia, daring us to come climb her. We will, eventually, and will then have a story to tell from Indian Point about how we took her summit. Later, at the Salmon Row Pub in Cascade Locks, we sat outside at a big picnic table on green grass, enjoying the Chemeketan after-hike tradition of hydration restoration and caloric deficit reduction. Chemeketans: Cunningham, Gabriel, Taylor, Moung, Coleman, Foulger, Anning, Phillips, Winkler, Knapp, and leader Slattum. Guests: Fisher Andrea, Knapp, and Stingle.

Chemeketan Climb School, April 17-18
Twenty-seven students participated in the 2004 Chemeketan Climb School. The school included two classroom sessions at the Chemekeden and a weekend field session. Classroom sessions included: Membership (K.Braasch), Mountain Slide Show (K.Garlinghouse), Climbing Fitness (S.Nelson), Equipment (J.Croft), Field Session Gear (M.Newby), Food for Climbing (J.Truax), Field Session Logistics (S.Dougherty) and Knot Practice (assistant leaders). Thank you to J.Picchi for serving refreshments during our classroom sessions. Participants either car-pooled or rode in two 14-passenger vans. Gear was hauled in two trucks provided by R.Barry and S.Dougherty. The Saturday field session focused on rock climbing skills at Horsethief Butte State Park near The Dalles. Assistant leaders and helpers guided groups of six students through the many stations prepared and manned by the climb leaders. Organization was facilitated by small laminated schedules and two-way radios. Evening camp was made at nearby Spearfish Park. A specially arranged pizza/pasta buffet at Spooky’s Pizza in The Dalles gave participants a welcome opportunity to sit and share the experiences of the day. Participants returned to Spearfish Park at 9 p.m. Camp was struck by 6:15 a.m. the following morning and the group stopped at a convenient McDonalds in Hood River for a 40-minute breakfast before driving to Timberline Ski Area. Following a hard day of self-arrest practice and rope team skills, the group reconvened in the WyEast Day Lodge cafeteria. Climb certificates were awarded before the group returned to Salem. School coordinator, Steve Dougherty, credits the success of this year’s school with the great turnout of leaders, assistants and helpers. Coordinator: S.Dougherty. Leaders: P.McClellan, B.Brownlee, V.Dunn, H.Fecker, P.Otley, K.Richardson, M.Rudy, T.Stump, T.Weimer, K.Braasch, B.Saur, E.Gradison. Assistant Leaders: B.Tedrow, J.Croft, S.Clark, S.Gonzalez, M.VanCampen, J.Truax,J.Tschanz, H.Kutuk, S.Gonzalez, JP Petrin. Helpers: S.Kelley, S.Lambert, L.Bedard, K.Hill, D.Wallace. Students: Ercan Acar, Melissa Austin, Lori Cain, Beth Casper, Kim Chapman, Evelin Dacker, Eric Destival, Jon Ellis, Bob Fanshier, Guadalupe Gabba, Joe Gabba, Ryan Good, Jeff Howell, Carol Hussey, Nina McCoy, Spencer McCoy, Michael McHugh, Dennis Moung, Kenneth Prowse, Dorothy Sharrar, Michael Slater, Robyn Smith, Tim Smith, Greg Tedrow, Shannon Tennant, Marie Wallace.

Falls Creek Falls, April 18
Diane Clayton and I had an unusual experience. We were so pleased at having the last 6 miles of gravel road recently bladed. We got to the parking lot: had a flat tire! No jack in the car so we hiked out to the blacktop road and hailed a car: the nicest couple of fishermen. They took us back to our car, changed our tire and admonished us to go very slowly. Stevenson repair shop declared the tire irreparable but they sold us an old tire that took us to Salem. We learned: A NEWLY BLADED GRAVEL ROAD IS A DISASTER TO TIRES-NO WONDER JOHN CARRIES TWO SPARE TIRES. Yes I have to have a new set of tires. D. Clayton and A. Wells, ldr.

Willamette Mission Park Dawdler Hike, April 22
Weather was gorgeous, after a week of rain. Paula Hyatt and leader, Joan Zelmer, had a very enjoyable hike around the park and a ride on the new ferry.

Nestucca Spit Midweek Hike, April 23
Eight of us walked the Nestucca spit on a misty day making the loop from oceanside to the bay and back across the dunes. The sun came out just as we finished. We watched seals and they watched us on the bay side. After the spit we climbed up the dunes at Cape Kiwanda. Included among the wet Chemeketans were members: B.&J. Voelker, D. Wachtel, D. Gallagher, J. Reichwein and ldr S. Wright. Guests working on their qualifying hikes were: Lana Kovacs and David Shaw.

Gorge Loop Hike, April 25
The Horsetail Creek trail, which begins with a difficult ford of Oneonta Creek, was to be the first leg of our loop. We couldn’t find a safe place to cross, however, and decided to make an easier loop instead. We took the Franklin Ridge trail to Multnomah Creek and then returned to our car on the Gorge trail. Hikers were D. Moung and leader C. Alexander.

Kentucky Falls, April 25
A cloudy day but very good trip. Both Kentucky Creek and the Smith River were very full with fantastic views of the Waterfalls. Many other visitors to the falls. I have been there many, many times & can still temporarily get lost (one wrong turn). Great hike. Leader M. Rieke and Member D. Clayton

McDonald Forest Dawdler, April 26
Five members sampled McDonald Forest near Corvallis, taking two beautiful short hikes among spring wildflowers. We walked the Homestead Trail, then lunched in comfort on the leader’s deck overlooking Dimple Hill. Next we were off to the ferny green shade of the Old Growth Trail near the Lewisburg Saddle. Hikers were K. Swenson, D. Herron, J. Kerns, J. Templar, and leader D. deLespinasse.

Wildflowers at Peavy Arboretum, April 27
Some wildflowers were beyond their prime because of the warm, dry weather, but the iris and vanilla leaf were in full splendor on the trails at Peavy Arboretum, a part of McDonald Forest. We started off on the Forest Discovery Trail, and met Irving with split-second timing at a rendezvous place on the steeper Section 36 Trail. From the top, we meandered down through the big trees, green ferns and moss of the Powderhouse Trail. We finished with a meander along the Calloway Creek Trail. Hikers were guests K. Burwash and P. Palmer; members J. Voelker, B. Voelker, M. Zaugg, K. Wilbur, I. Dayton, and leader D. deLespinasse.

Beginner Backpack Class, April 29
Twenty-three people turned out for the informative Beginner Backpack Class. Kim Braasch started the evening with an announcement of the Beginner Backpack she will lead in June. This three-day trip to the Battleaxe Mountain area is open to people who have taken the class. Class co-presenters were Scottie Wujcik and Karen Huntzinger. Both brought packs and equipment, and Scottie set up his tent in the den. Karen focused on water, food and stoves. She had the audience taste water treated with iodine followed with vitamin C to dispel the bad taste, and she showed how quick and easy backpack meal preparation can be. Scottie covered the basics of safety and gear. His handout on backpacking basics plus a checklist of items to take along are useful tools even for experienced backpackers. Karen had good suggestions for making backpacking food more interesting than the standard freeze-dried fare.

A Walking Tour of Albany, April 30
It was a lovely spring day. Vail was not fully recovered from recent hospitalization, and was able to lead the group only for the first stage, around Waverly Lake. Jim had graciously volunteered to take over leadership for the remainder of the route. With Vail’s detailed notes and map, Jim led the group along Cox Creek, past Swan Lakes to Grand Prairie Park, and then along Periwinkle Creek to lunch at Eleanor Hackleman Park. After lunch we wandered through the downtown historic area, noting the old buildings and taking in the Albany Regional Museum. We finished up with refreshments at Boccherini’s before ending our walk at Monteith River Park. Hikers were guests David Shaw, Wayne Gann, George Andrus, and Kathy Jobes; and members J. Scott, C. Scott, R. Roner, I Covalt, co-leader J. Scott, and leader V. Palmer.

Tom McCall Preserve Hike, May 1
Sixteen Chemeketans ascended about 1000 feet through vast fields of wildflowers to Tom McCall Point. Balsam Root and Lupine were especially abundant, making a dazzling sea of blue and gold for the wildflower enthusiasts and camera buffs. At the top, we basked in the warm spring sun eating lunch and drinking in the serenity of the Columbia Gorge. As we descended, seasoned hiker Lee Slattum added a little excitement to the trip by stopping behind a bush with a not-so-friendly rattlesnake. After the excitement, we safely completed the hike with a leisurely trip downhill to the plateau and tranquil ponds overlooking the Columbia River. On our return to Salem, we stopped at our favorite salmon chowder restaurant in Cascade Locks for refreshments. Members: D. Nelson, P. Fuhrman, L. Slattum, M. Coleman, B. Anning, B. Geibel, B. Belshaw, J. Gabriel, R. Shirack, J. Savage, D. Standefer, D. Carter, D. Stoltz, D. Foulger, B. Richardson, L. Willnow (leader).

Mt. Scott Ski Descent, May 1-2
When you go on a backcountry snow riding trip with a boarder, what’s the first thing they do when you make camp the night before? They build a jump, of course. Then out came the first bottle of red and the jump didn’t see much action after that. Once the sun disappeared, we made a huge bonfire, which we were able to keep fed till we ran out of good stories and lies and ...... Of course sleep is a necessary thing for the morrow’s ascent. An early but not killer start and direct line got us to the summit relatively early where we enjoyed spectacular views of Crater Lake and the entire range from Lassen to Hood. After short ridge walk to check out the lookout, we chose our descent line. It’s a pity, it was so warm with the snow corning up rapidly or we could have stayed up there for hours enjoying the solitude with the special knowledge that there wasn’t anyone within miles and miles of us. But a great descent on Oregon corn was calling us, so we jumped off and skied down the east face to a wide avalanche chute and into tighter trees for a run all the way back to camp 3,000 ft below. The ski on the road back to the car was pleasantly downhill. A stop at McCredie Hot Springs and dinner at the Steelhead in Eugene made for an exceptional start to the spring backcountry ski season. For reference, Mt. Scott is a very similar trip to Bailey and the isolated location makes it special. We are indebted to Tim for his fire building skills and desire to rid himself of some homemade juice. Leader: K.Garlinghouse. Assistants: J.Croft Members: J.Tschanz, H.Kutuk, Guests: T.Beck.

Hardy Ridge, May 2
The day was great and the spirits were high as 13 eager hikers set out from the Hamilton Mt. parking lot for Hardy Ridge. (Don’t forget the $5 Washington Parks parking fee) The wild flowers were out in quantity and quality and we hiked along in anticipation of what we would see next. Part way up we encountered two gentlemen who gave us considerable information on other not-so-well known hikes in the area. They promised to give us further info via e-mail. We had lunch at Ziger Point and then proceeded to the true summit. The glacier lilies encountered last year were past their prime but the phlox were out in full bloom. We then retraced our steps to the trailhead. The eager hikers were B. Belshaw, B. Truneckova, D. deLespinasse, E. Collier, R. Noble, K. Ash, D. Stoltz, R. Shirack, J. Savage, M. Coleman, M. Gabe, guest S. Gabe and leader D. Carter

Mount June and Hardesty Mountain Hike, May 2
We were fortunate to have a beautiful, clear day for our trek to Mount June and Hardesty Mountain. After a gradual warm-up through a sweet-smelling forest of Douglas Fir, we headed up the short but rather steep trail to Mount June, quickly getting our pulse rates up. The panoramic view at the summit was absolutely incredible! We had fun trying to name all of the peaks that could be seen from Mt. Hood all the way down to Diamond Peak...stirring memories of where we’ve been and excitement of where we plan to go later this year. Almost reluctantly, we left this oasis of wonder and headed back along the ridge towards Hardesty Mountain. We stopped briefly at the Sawtooth Rock, an intriguing monolith covered with velvety succulents, which has a cool, shallow cave on the backside. Upon reaching our second destination, Hardesty Mountain, we enjoyed a sunny lunch at the former lookout site. Although the 15 miles of one-lane road was tedious, especially on the way out, the view from Mount June was well worth the drive. Enjoying the scenery and a good workout were S. Williams, L. Slattum, D. Moung, F. Hernandez, and leader J. Gabriel.

Opal Creek Hike, May 4
The old growth forest was misty with various early spring wildflowers to ponder. Five folks ventured out to see old abandoned mines and walk the loop around Opal Pool. Hikers were J. Webb, M. Zaugg, L. Kovacs, J. Kerns, and leader K Timberlake.

Champoeg to Butteville , May 5
On a beautiful spring day eight members and four non-members enjoyed a walk along the Willamette River to Butteville. After a good lunch outdoors at the Butteville Store, we explored the community a bit. After returning to Champoeg Park we viewed the site of the former town of Champoeg. Non-members: Verdeen Herrera, Vicki Bailey, Ellen Chambers, Kathryn Smedema. Members: M. Hoak, MJ. Lundsten, D. and R. Dungey, I. Lesher, J. Templar, L. Dawson, P. Simila (leader).

The Labyrinth, May 6
A season-ending hike in the Gorge at the Labyrinth found perfect weather, mountain and river views, the last of the spring flowers, a soaring bald eagle, a mountain bluebird and the songs of a meadowlark and a grosbeak. It was a great way for K. Reid, V. Torgeson, D. Gallagher, S. Wright, K. Ash, D. Baihuber and M. Coleman to say adieu to our spring stompin’ grounds and look forward to summer in the mountains. As good ol’ Ken drove us safely home, we discussed all the fun hikes that lay ahead.

Eagle Creek–Ruckel Creek Loop Hike, May 9
On the Eagle-Benson Trail, which connects Eagle Creek with the Benson Plateau, we had great views of tanner Butte, Tomlike Mt. and the distant Columbia River. We looked for the enormous bear John claimed to have seen on the Ruckel Creek Trail once, but were disappointed. Hikers were John Stolting, Blanka Truneckova, and leader Cliff Alexander.

Drift Creek Falls Hike , May 10
An enthusiastic group of 9 hikers set out for Drift Creek Falls. It was raining buckets when we arrived. The group decided to go eat at Salishan Marketplace. We then hiked out on the Salishan spit. It was cloudy and windy but we all had a good time. The hardy hikers were: M. Nelson, M. Pegg, J. Templar, K. Swenson, G. English, Darrell Herron; S. Garber was a guest. The fearless leader was no other than J. Noble

Cove Palisades Car Camp, May 10-14
The weather was on the cool and partly cloudy side but it rained only once (Sunday night)and the temperatures were great for hiking. Highlights were hikng the Tam-a-lau Trail up onto The Peninsula, hiking the Gray Butte Trail (one way) into Smith Rock State Park (trip #7 in Bill Sullivan’s Eastern Oregon Guide)and we got to visit the elusive Balancing Rocks featured on Oregon Field Guide. This was the first time I think I ever saw someone set up their tent in the hook-up section of camp so that they could plug in their electric blanket! Lucky attendees were R & D Dungey, M & B Woods, D Gwynn and guest Kwan Gwynn, J Swink, P Hyatt, and leader K Hyatt

Banks/Vernonia Linear Park Hike, May 12
We walked the 5 miles from Horseshoe trestle to Buxton trestle on an abandoned railway bed. This is Oregon’s first linear park and runs for 21 miles between Banks and Vernonia. Weather was perfect and the walk through the forest beautiful. Participants: members - Enid Preuitt, Mary Jo Lundsten, Carol Sanner, leader Pat Simila. Non-member - Ken Simila.

Hamilton Mt. Midweek Hike, May 13
Conditions were ideal! It was sunny and the temperature was about 70°. A good variety of wildflowers were at their peak. We also had fine views of waterfalls, Bonneville Dam and vistas of Columbia Gorge, east and west. Participants included: B. Taylor, B. Goetz, D. Gallagher, P. Shoemake, D. deLespinasse, L. Glazier, and P. Anderson (ldr.).

Finley NWR, Corvallis Dawdler, May 13
Birds chirping in the trees watched us perhaps more than we watched them on our sunny visit to Finley NWR. Armed with binoculars and a scope, nine hikers and willing to be "birders-for-a-day" walked and worked the Woodpecker Loop and the Cabell Marsh Trails searching for elusive birds behind branches, tree trunks and leaves. In all, nineteen species were identified in the five plus miles. The stars of the day were the Red-bellied Sapsucker who gave us very good looks while pounding a tree trunk a short distance away and the American Kestrel who dazzled us with his hunting prowess and hovering antics above a field. Lunch was at the historic Fiechter House picnic table for sun-worshippers and a bench on the home’s porch for shadier characters. A good time was had by all. Members were: D. Clayton, L. Kovacs, S. Miller, D. Reiley, T. Peterson, M. Zaugg and M. Narey, leader. Guests were: Kirsty Wineland (first qualifier), and Wayne Gann (second qualifier).

Mt. HoodClimb, May 14-15
I responded to take some of the 20+ people signed up to climb Mt. Hood with Steve Dougherty. My climb was originally scheduled for the previous weekend, cancelled because of the weather, and rescheduled for the same dates as Steve’s group. By then several people had other plans and dropped out. At the last minute I tried to cancel again because of the iffy weather, but I couldn’t talk Bill and Ercan out of it, so we went. In spite of a white-out on the last push for the summit we kept going. The weather cleared for some fantastic views. See Steve’s write up for more details. One notable exception for our group is that we climbed the whole mountain. Undaunted climbers were B. Kelley, E. Acar, and leader, T. Weimer.

Mt. Hood Climb, May 14-15
Eleven Chemeketans under the leadership of Mike Rudy met at Mazama Lodge for a pre-climb meal and three hour nap. Upon their 1:00 a.m. arrival at Timberline Lodge (6000’) they made a last minute decision to have a Snocat transport the group to the top of the Palmer Chairlift (8600’). The tightly packed snocat took 30 minutes to climb the 2600’. Conditions were mild with very little wind and temperatures close to freezing. Few stars and no lights from Portland confirmed that low and high clouds were present. The group began climbing at 2:15 a.m. on the moonless night. As they made their way around Crater Rock, Mike Rudy complained of stomach cramps. Assistant leader, Stefan Gonzalez, volunteered to turn around with Mike. Steve Dougherty assumed leadership of the group with the remaining assistant leader, Brad Tedrow. The group arrived at the Hog’s Back at about 4:45 a.m. where they roped up into two rope teams. Climbers were protected with pickets above the bergshrund. The group arrived on the cold and cloudy summit at 6:50 a.m. with six of the nine summiting climbers claiming their first Mt. Hood summits. Surprisingly, the clouds parted during most of the 30 minutes spent on the summit affording views of all summits from Rainier to Broken Top. Low clouds reduced visibility as they descended below Crater Rock. Group members stayed close together and followed a magnetic south bearing to navigate back to the top of the Palmer Chairlift where they followed the groomed climber’s trail down to Timberline Lodge. The group returned to Mazama Lodge for showers and the awarding of summit certificates before returning to Salem. Participants were M. Rudy(leader), S.Dougherty, B.Tedrow(assistant), S.Gonzalez(assistant), R.Smith, T.Smith, B.Fukuda, G.Tedrow, J.Ellis, E.Destival, and K.Kraschel.

Elk and Kings Mts. Traverse, May 15
My blue, long-sleeved shirt billowing in the wind, I biked the three miles up Hwy. 6 in the Tillamook State Forest to our van left parked at the Elk trailhead where we had started our heart-pounding traverse to Kings. The day had been cool with wet foliage to brush against, helping to dissipate the metabolic heat generated by our efforts in negotiating Elk’s bouldery trail that snakes through some 2000 feet of vertical in about two miles to her summit. Almost literally dropping over her side through a flower-filled shoot, we continued on a winding, less-demanding route that took us to the north side of Kings. Here, a long series of short, steep switchbacks finally took us to a gentle slope that lead to the summit. After that, it was a down-hill cakewalk to Kings’ trailhead where the bicycle lay patiently behind a moss-covered log. Sometime later, we were in McMinnville taking part in their annual space alien celebration by eating and drinking in the town’s McMenamins. We felt a little out of place, though, with no bouncy head wires. Commendable hikers: Phillips, Watkins, Gabriel, Cooper, Parker, Truneckova, Carter, guest Short, and leader Slattum.

Turner-Stayton Bike Ride, May 16
Dark clouds and forecasts of showers did not prevent four riders from enjoying a nice ride. We ran into a shower soon after starting the trip, but quickly dried out after warming up on the hills. The local dogs seemed to be attracted to Jon’s bright orange ODOT jacket but none were able to catch him. The rest of the day was perfect biking weather and we made a speedy return after filling up on hamburgers and ice cream. Guest: Jon Guido, members S. Wardwell, I. Dayton, leader R. Roner

McKenzie River Trail Hike, May 19
Six sanguine strollers savored a saunter on the McKenzie River Trail, from where the trail crosses the highway just below Clear Lake down to Trailbridge Reservoir. The McKenzie was quite full -- most noticeable as it thundered over Sahalie Falls. We reveled in the beauty of the forest, the roar of the river, then the silence as we followed the dry riverbed and contemplated the river flowing several meters under us. We ate lunch overlooking the awesome Tamolitch Pool, and reached the car almost before we were ready! The six were E. Benninghoff, D. and M. Conrad, T. Talbott, J. Templar, and leader G. Struble.

Henline Mtn, May 22
The day was cloudy as we left town and wet as we hiked up Henline Mtn. We were dressed for the weather, but still ate a very quick lunch at the top because we were cold and wet. As we came down the rain let up and we returned to a dry Salem. It was a good hike with just the exercise we needed. Hikers were J Webb, G Taylor, D Foulger, S Schmidt, B Custer, D DeLespinasse, and J Ross, leader.

Tualatin River Canoe-Kayak May 22
What was supposed to be a rainy day turned into a delightful overcast-sunny-ten-second-sprinkles kind of day. Paddling on the Tualatin upstream from Cook Park, we had only one minor obstacle, easily passed by. Enjoying this day were kayakers G. Heald, L. Schellin, G. Susbauer, T. Peterson, J. Gleason, and canoeists P. Hyatt (leader) and guests Martin Axford and sons Allin and Duncan. Yes, we did paddle back down to Cook Park after lunch.

Dog Mountain Hike, May 23
Hoping to be rewarded with hillsides of prominently displayed balsamroot, we headed towards the summit of Dog Mountain in cooler than usual May weather. Patches of Lupine and Indian Paintbrush brightened our path along the way. As we approached the meadows, the chilly wind caused us to “layer up” for the final leg. Recent rains had made the generally less-traveled Augsperger Trail rather muddy. A quietness settled around us as we noticed the fog drifting through the trees. Although not disappointed by the flower display, we knew the views would have to wait for another day. Visibility was limited at the summit, and the wind was brisk, so we didn’t dally at the top. We made quick work of the return loop, walking into what seemed like an entirely different day of sunshine and partly blue skies down at the parking lot. Refreshments were enjoyed by all during our stop at the Salmon Row Pub. Getting out for a bit of exercise this Sunday morning were M. Cunningham, D. Moung, T. Taylor, R. Nafziger, L. Slattum, and leader J. Gabriel.

Monmouth-Falls City-Dallas-Monmouth Loop Bike, May 25
Five of us met in Monmouth for this day of biking lead by SLOW leader P. Hyatt. Encountering more uphills in the first segment than the leader remembered, the four waited graciously at the top of each hill while leader, in the rear, walked-cycled some of these. Each was followed by long downhill runs. We enjoyed lunch in Falls City while looking at the beautiful falls, now with lots of water! On to Dallas and yes, ice cream at the DQ. The last segment into Monmouth was FLAT. We had some wind (always riding into it, of course). Historical information or misinformation was presented at several points. Following or leading the leader were K. Ash, R. Allowitz, and S. and G. Wardwell.

Soda Peaks Lake, May 25
What a glorious day to explore a seldom-seen forest and lake! We hiked along the Trapper Creek trail to a bridge over the creek. Then the fun began as we trekked up the steep trail to the lake. Flowers were blooming, the birds were singing, the grouse were calling, the forest was a lush green, and we captured views of Observation Peak, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, and the Goat Rocks. Patches of snow greeted us at the lake, which still sported some ice. We admired Soda Peak and the lake, which harbored at least one fish. Enjoying this strenuous hike were guest Lu Pinson, members D. Baihuber, B. Belshaw, D. Carter, M. Coleman, D. Gallagher, D. Moung, D. Stoltz, S. Wright, and leader R. Nafziger.

Independence Guard Station, May 25
Three members and one guest enjoyed a faultless day as we visited this historic site, where the pack strings were kept and the residents monitored th traffic on the old Minto trail to Marion Lake and across the mountains. Restored by the efforts of the timber operators and the Forest Service, it stands as a testimony of ninety years ago when things were in the early days of the Forest Service. Plenty of ladyslippers, lots of sunshine and a great lunch at the lunch counter on Independence Rock. Members M. Schell and A. Grafe were joined by guest Kathy Bradbury and leader W. Grafe.

Eagle Creek, May 25
We had a beautiful day for this lovely hike along Eagle Creek. It was a first time on the trail for some of us and the rewards were perfect. Not only was the weather clear and sunny, but we saw our fair share of flowers, some ripe strawberries, and some wildlife. Hikers wereC Backen, P Shoemake, J Ross, J Lawrence, and J Ross, leader.

Table Mt., May 29
At the Greenleaf Slough, along the Columbia River on Washington’s side, we exited from the van into a heavy shower. After an easy 1700 feet of vertical in 3.5 miles, we stood at the Table’s cutoff. A big balloon payment was due: 1700 feet in one mile. A cold wind, blowing rain, leaned on us as we pushed our way up on this talus-rocked, exposed ridge leading to the lip of the Table’s large summit. Finally above the lip, we headed through the forested summit to our lunch site on the south side. Here, a large portion of the mountain fell and slid into the Columbia years ago, leaving a sheer cliff for a classic hiker’s lunch. We ate quickly as the angry weather wicked away our body heat. Susan W. was allowed to eat only one end of her Dagwood. We fled across the summit and started our descent down the loose-rocked trail that challenged our balance on nearly every step. What a relief to finally reach the shelter of the forest and its talus-free trail. No question now, Cascade Lock’s Salmon Row Pub would soon be ours. Chemeketans: Watkins, Gabriel, Foulger, Carter, Winkler, and leader Slattum.

Eagle Crest, May 29
Good, clean fun! And I mean clean; we were completely washed by rain all day long! Beautiful setting, and good fellowship. By the end of the 6.6 mile hike we were all saying “Quack, Quack!” A few big wildflowers still remained but lots of tiny tiny ones were at full bloom. We enjoyed seing mom and pop osprey land at the top of a tall, skinny evergreen to feed babies. R. and M. Boatwright, J. Murrell, D. Clayton, R. Irwin, C. Gonzalez, and leader C. Maurer.

Iron Mountain, May 30
What a terrific bunch of good sports on this hike! The snow was again too high for good hiking, but the twelve persons had a good time trying. Leader Alma Wells turned the hike leader position over to Karen Huntzinger as she did not feel up to the task. These pleasant people were R. Cooper, C. Backen, L. Abrahamson, P. Shoemake, D. Voegele, S. Sanazaro, K. Huntinger, J. Kuehn, D. Moung, J. Easterly, A. Wells, and guest Mike Easterly.

Beazel Historic Park, June 2
A perfect day and hike combined with five persons ready to try a different site for a hike. We hiked the long hill where you can get a view of the valley if you go beyond the bend. Then we took the hike along the creek which had many wildflowers; the cliff across was spectacular. On to the Bird trail where we saw two oak trees being spared – we believe out of respect to Mr. Beazel, who loved the oak trees. All day long the birds sang to us. The five appreciating this park were P. Anderson, D. and M. Conrad, D. Wachtell, and leader A. Wells.

Eagle Creek Mid-Week Hike, June 3
Eagle Creek Trail always provides a wonderful hike and it did not disappoint us on this mid-week adventure. "Durango Don" Voegele was in town visiting Robert Roner and joined Mary Jo Lundsten and me for the hike. The weather was perfect and there was plenty of water flowing over those falls. Each one is unique and interesting. Tunnel Falls was spectacular. We went beyond it to the "Cross-over" Falls where we enjoyed a very long and leisurely lunch break. Birds, wildflowers and even a rubber boa snake added to the experience. Hikers were: M. Lundsten, D. Voegele and leader E. Person

Fish Lake Canoe Trip, June 6
Ten canoeists and kayakers paddled around Fish Lake on a cool, cloudy day. All day long we enjoyed watching waterfowl families. Adult mergansers, geese, buffleheads, and mallards and their adorable babies seemed to be everywhere. Several of us were disappointed when we read a forest service notice at the campground. Next year they plan to close Fish Lake Campground. An interpretive site and handicap access will be built. Fish Lake served as a remount station and a stopping point along the Old Santiam Wagon Road. Hopefully the new development will not spoil the quiet, pristine nature of the lake. The water level was unusually high this year. We missed our usual opportunity to portage around the sticky mud flat on Hackleman Creek. Guests: Martin Axford, Erin McNulty, Louisa Hooven, Dominic Botta, Sam Wood Members: D. and M. Kaehler, L. Schellin, G. Susbauer, L. Scofield

Pamelia Lake Hike, June 7
On a cloudy, rainy day three undaunted Chemeketans hiked into Pamelia Lake. In spite of the intermittent rain, the tree canopy kept us dry. We ate lunch beside the lake, which was very full this time of year, and watched the cloud formations and snow patches in the nearby mountains. Members: J. James, S. Sanazaro, leader P. Simila.

Tamanawas Falls/East Fork Trail, June 10
Mt. Hood’s rainshadow provided us with blue skies and breezy conditions while the west side of the mountain was socked in with low clouds and rain. We left a car at the former Robin Hood Campground (now just a trailhead due to flood damage) and then drove north to Sherwood Campground to begin our shuttle hike. We hiked to beautiful Tamanawas Falls and then headed up the East Fork Trail, which parallels the East Fork of the Hood River. A great day! Hikers were all members: B. Snead, D. Conrad, M. Conrad, J. Webb.

Crescent Mountain, June 13
The forecast was "partly cloudy," but it drizzled on us most of the time we were on the trail, with a chilly wind from the west too. We persevered, and enjoyed the Oregon forest in wet, misty condition, which is a treat too. The big steep meadow gave us a distinctly alpine feeling. Members S. Sanazaro, J.E. Seibert, and leader G. Struble.

Rooster Rock, June 15
This trip was to the Rooster Rock east of Sweet Home. Unlike Sunday, today was a perfect day for a hike: sun, not too warm, gentle breeze. We enjoyed the rhododendrons in bloom as well as other wildflowers, and happily ate our lunch at the top with fine views. C. Backen, I. Dayton, M. Zaugg, and leader G. Struble

Chinese Garden Miscellaneous Event, April 10
This trip to a Ming-style urban garden related to the usual Chemeketan wilderness outing the way a bonsai tree relates to nature unmediated by humans. The small area felt large, and from “Tower of Cosmic Reflection” to “Knowing the Fish Pavilion” every turn revealed another way of seeing what was there. It was a total spring day. Cherry blossom petals swirled through the air, clung to our hair and clothes, filled the gutters with pink drifts, and rose underfoot in small clouds as we walked to a neighborhood Chinese restaurant, where the dim sum was fast and furious. Walkers were guest Mary Wandell, members C Joachim, G. Susbauer, J. Urbigkeit, A. King (ldr.).

Kentucky Falls, April 25
A cloudy day but very good trip. Both Kentucky Creek and the Smith River were very full with fantastic views of the Waterfalls. Many other visitors to the falls. I have been there many, many times & can still temporarily get lost (one wrong turn). Great hike. Leader M. Rieke and Member D. Clayton

McDonald Forest Dawdler, April 26
Five members sampled McDonald Forest near Corvallis, taking two beautiful short hikes among spring wildflowers. We walked the Homestead Trail, then lunched in comfort on the leader’s deck overlooking Dimple Hill. Next we were off to the ferny green shade of the Old Growth Trail near the Lewisburg Saddle. Hikers were K. Swenson, D. Herron, J. Kerns, J. Templar, and leader D. deLespinasse.

Wildflowers at Peavy Arboretum, April 27
Some wildflowers were beyond their prime because of the warm, dry weather, but the iris and vanilla leaf were in full splendor on the trails at Peavy Arboretum, a part of McDonald Forest. We started off on the Forest Discovery Trail, and met Irving with split-second timing at a rendezvous place on the steeper Section 36 Trail. From the top, we meandered down through the big trees, green ferns and moss of the Powderhouse Trail. We finished with a meander along the Calloway Creek Trail. Hikers were guests K. Burwash and P. Palmer; members J. Voelker, B. Voelker, M. Zaugg, K. Wilbur, I. Dayton, and leader D. deLespinasse.

Beginner Backpack Class, April 29
Twenty-three people turned out for the informative Beginner Backpack Class. Kim Braasch started the evening with an announcement of the Beginner Backpack she will lead in June. This three-day trip to the Battle Ax Mountain area is open to people who have taken the class. Class co-presenters were Scottie Wujcik and Karen Huntzinger. Both brought packs and equipment, and Scottie set up his tent in the den. Karen focused on water, food and stoves. She had the audience taste water treated with iodine followed with vitamin C to dispel the bad taste, and she showed how quick and easy backpack meal preparation can be. Scottie covered the basics of safety and gear. His handout on backpacking basics plus a checklist of items to take along is useful even for experienced backpackers. Karen had good suggestions for making backpacking food more interesting than the standard freeze-dried fare.

A Walking Tour of Albany, April 30
It was a lovely spring day. Vail was not fully recovered from recent hospitalization, and was able to lead the group only for the first stage, around Waverly Lake. Jim had graciously volunteered to take over leadership for the remainder of the route. With Vail’s detailed notes and map, Jim led the group along Cox Creek, past Swan Lakes to Grand Prairie Park, and then along Periwinkle Creek to lunch at Eleanor Hackleman Park. After lunch we wandered through the downtown historic area, noting the old buildings and taking in the Albany Regional Museum. We finished up with refreshments at Boccherini’s before ending our walk at Monteith River Park. Hikers were guests David Shaw, Wayne Gann, George Andrus, and Kathy Jobes; and members J. Scott, C. Scott, R. Roner, I Covalt, co-leader J. Scott, and leader V. Palmer.

Tom McCall Preserve Hike, May 1
Sixteen Chemeketans ascended about 1000 feet through vast fields of wildflowers to Tom McCall Point. Balsam Root and Lupine were especially abundant, making a dazzling sea of blue and gold for the wildflower enthusiasts and camera buffs. At the top, we basked in the warm spring sun eating lunch and drinking in the serenity of the Columbia Gorge. As we descended, seasoned hiker Lee Slattum added a little excitement to the trip by stopping behind a bush with a not-so-friendly rattlesnake. After the excitement, we safely completed the hike with a leisurely trip downhill to the plateau and tranquil ponds overlooking the Columbia River. On our return to Salem, we stopped at our favorite salmon chowder restaurant in Cascade Locks for refreshments. Members: D. Nelson, P. Fuhrman, L. Slattum, M. Coleman, B. Anning, B. Geibel, B. Belshaw, J. Gabriel, R. Shirack, J. Savage, D. Standefer, D. Carter, D. Stoltz, D. Foulger, B. Richardson, L. Willnow (leader).

Mt. Scott Ski Descent, May 1-2
When you go on a backcountry snow riding trip with a boarder, what’s the first thing they do when you make camp the night before? They build a jump, of course. Then out came the first bottle of red and the jump didn’t see much action after that. Once the sun disappeared, we made a huge bonfire, which we were able to keep fed till we ran out of good stories and lies and ...... Of course sleep is a necessary thing for the morrow’s ascent. An early but not killer start and direct line got us to the summit relatively early where we enjoyed spectacular views of Crater Lake and the entire range from Lassen to Hood. After short ridge walk to check out the lookout, we chose our descent line. It’s a pity, it was so warm with the snow corning up rapidly or we could have stayed up there for hours enjoying the solitude with the special knowledge that there wasn’t anyone within miles and miles of us. But a great descent on Oregon corn was calling us, so we jumped off and skied down the east face to a wide avalanche chute and into tighter trees for a run all the way back to camp 3,000 ft below. The ski on the road back to the car was pleasantly downhill. A stop at McCredie Hot Springs and dinner at the Steelhead in Eugene made for an exceptional start to the spring backcountry ski season. For reference, Mt. Scott is a very similar trip to Bailey and the isolated location makes it special. We are indebted to Tim for his fire building skills and desire to rid himself of some homemade juice. Leader: K.Garlinghouse. Assistants: J.Croft Members: J.Tschanz, H.Kutuk, Guests: T.Beck.

Hardy Ridge, May 2
The day was great and the spirits were high as 13 eager hikers set out from the Hamilton Mt. parking lot for Hardy Ridge. (Don’t forget the $5 Washington Parks parking fee) The wild flowers were out in quantity and quality and we hiked along in anticipation of what we would see next. Part way up we encountered two gentlemen who gave us considerable information on other not-so-well known hikes in the area. They promised to give us further info via e-mail. We had lunch at Ziger Point and then proceeded to the true summit. The glacier lilies encountered last year were past their prime but the phlox were out in full bloom. We then retraced our steps to the trailhead. The eager hikers were B. Belshaw, B. Truneckova, D. deLespinasse, E. Collier, R. Noble, K. Ash, D. Stoltz, R. Shirack, J. Savage, M. Coleman, M. Gabe, guest S. Gabe and leader D. Carter

Mount June and Hardesty Mountain Hike, May 2
We were fortunate to have a beautiful, clear day for our trek to Mount June and Hardesty Mountain. After a gradual warm-up through a sweet-smelling forest of Douglas Fir, we headed up the short but rather steep trail to Mount June, quickly getting our pulse rates up. The panoramic view at the summit was absolutely incredible! We had fun trying to name all of the peaks that could be seen from Mt. Hood all the way down to Diamond Peak...stirring memories of where we’ve been and excitement of where we plan to go later this year. Almost reluctantly, we left this oasis of wonder and headed back along the ridge towards Hardesty Mountain. We stopped briefly at the Sawtooth Rock, an intriguing monolith covered with velvety succulents, which has a cool, shallow cave on the backside. Upon reaching our second destination, Hardesty Mountain, we enjoyed a sunny lunch at the former lookout site. Although the 15 miles of one-lane road was tedious, especially on the way out, the view from Mount June was well worth the drive. Enjoying the scenery and a good workout were S. Williams, L. Slattum, D. Moung, F. Hernandez, and leader J. Gabriel.

Opal Creek Hike, May 4
The old growth forest was misty with various early spring wildflowers to ponder. Five folks ventured out to see old abandoned mines and walk the loop around Opal Pool. Hikers were J. Webb, M. Zaugg, L. Kovacs, J. Kerns, and leader K. Timberlake.

Champoeg to Butteville , May 5
On a beautiful spring day eight members and four non-members enjoyed a walk along the Willamette River to Butteville. After a good lunch outdoors at the Butteville Store, we explored the community a bit. After returning to Champoeg Park we viewed the site of the former town of Champoeg. Non-members: Verdeen Herrera, Vicki Bailey, Ellen Chambers, Kathryn Smedema. Members: M. Hoak, MJ. Lundsten, D. and R. Dungey, I. Lesher, J. Templar, L. Dawson, P. Simila (leader).

The Labyrinth, May 6
A season-ending hike in the Gorge at the Labyrinth found perfect weather, mountain and river views, the last of the spring flowers, a soaring bald eagle, a mountain bluebird and the songs of a meadowlark and a grosbeak. It was a great way for K. Reid, V. Torgeson, D. Gallagher, S. Wright, K. Ash, D. Baihuber and M. Coleman to say adieu to our spring stompin’ grounds and look forward to summer in the mountains. As good ol’ Ken drove us safely home, we discussed all the fun hikes that lay ahead.

Eagle Creek–Ruckel Creek Loop Hike, May 9
On the Eagle-Benson Trail, which connects Eagle Creek with the Benson Plateau, we had great views of Tanner Butte, Tomlike Mt. and the distant Columbia River. We looked for the enormous bear John claimed to have seen on the Ruckel Creek Trail once, but were disappointed. Hikers were John Stolting, Blanka Truneckova, and leader Cliff Alexander.

Devil’s Lake, May 10
International Migratory Bird Day was celebrated during our annual BIRDING BY BOAT trip to Devil’s Lake with the SALEM AUDUBON SOCIETY. Bird expert/photographer Al Rice was our local resident host. We enjoyed our pre-paddling viewing of “Winged Migration” & the 39 bird species & eagle’s nest Al photographed from his Devil’s Lake home. We paddled past 40 wood duck boxes he made & put up around the lake. A special treat was gliding up to a beaver dam & to a Canada Goose’s nest & seeing the eggs, which were hidden in one of the islands of colorful yellow water iris. Beautiful water lilies were also in full bloom & provided sunning spots to turtles, frogs & salamanders. While paddling through this colorful water garden wetlands, we saw red-winged & tri-colored blackbirds, an eagle, turkey vultures, cinnamon teals, herons, cormorants, mallards & a great variety of songbirds. Enjoying this fun birding day were trip leaders Laurelyn Schellin, Georgia Heald & eleven kayak/canoe birders. At days end, our American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor/Life Saver leader, Laurelyn, was called upon to rescue a capsized fisherman. He, his boat & catch were successfully brought to shore!

Drift Creek Falls Hike, May 10
An enthusiastic group of 9 hikers set out for Drift Creek Falls. It was raining buckets when we arrived. The group decided to go eat at Salishan Marketplace. We then hiked out on the Salishan spit. It was cloudy and windy but we all had a good time. The hardy hikers were: M. Nelson, M. Pegg, J. Templar, K. Swenson, G. English, Darrell Herron; S. Garber was a guest. The fearless leader was no other than J. Noble

Cove Palisades Car Camp, May 10-14
The weather was on the cool and partly cloudy side but it rained only once (Sunday night)and the temperatures were great for hiking. Highlights were hikng the Tam-a-lau Trail up onto The Peninsula, hiking the Gray Butte Trail (one way) into Smith Rock State Park (trip #7 in Bill Sullivan’s Eastern Oregon Guide)and we got to visit the elusive Balancing Rocks featured on Oregon Field Guide. This was the first time I think I ever saw someone set up their tent in the hook-up section of camp so that they could plug in their electric blanket! Lucky attendees were R & D Dungey, M & B Woods, D Gwynn and guest Kwan Gwynn, J Swink, P Hyatt, and leader K Hyatt

Banks/Vernonia Linear Park Hike, May 12
We walked the 5 miles from Horseshoe trestle to Buxton trestle on an abandoned railway bed. This is Oregon’s first linear park and runs for 21 miles between Banks and Vernonia. Weather was perfect and the walk through the forest beautiful. Participants: members - Enid Preuitt, Mary Jo Lundsten, Carol Sanner, leader Pat Simila. Non-member - Ken Simila.

Hamilton Mt. Midweek Hike, May 13
Conditions were ideal! It was sunny and the temperature was about 70°. A good variety of wildflowers were at their peak. We also had fine views of waterfalls, Bonneville Dam and vistas of Columbia Gorge, east and west. Participants included: B. Taylor, B. Goetz, D. Gallagher, P. Shoemake, D. deLespinasse, L. Glazier, and P. Anderson (ldr.).

Finley NWR, Corvallis Dawdler, May 13
Birds chirping in the trees watched us perhaps more than we watched them on our sunny visit to Finley NWR. Armed with binoculars and a scope, nine hikers and willing to be “birders-for-a-day” walked and worked the Woodpecker Loop and the Cabell Marsh Trails searching for elusive birds behind branches, tree trunks and leaves. In all, nineteen species were identified in the five plus miles. The stars of the day were the Red-bellied Sapsucker who gave us very good looks while pounding a tree trunk a short distance away and the American Kestrel who dazzled us with his hunting prowess and hovering antics above a field. Lunch was at the historic Fiechter House picnic table for sun-worshippers and a bench on the home’s porch for shadier characters. A good time was had by all. Members were: D. Clayton, L. Kovacs, S. Miller, D. Reiley, T. Peterson, M. Zaugg and M. Narey, leader. Guests were: Kirsty Wineland (first qualifier), and Wayne Gann (second qualifier).

Mt. Hood, May 14-15
I responded to take some of the 20+ people signed up to climb Mt. Hood with Steve Dougherty. My climb was originally scheduled for the previous weekend, cancelled because of the weather, and rescheduled for the same dates as Steve’s group. By then several people had other plans and dropped out. At the last minute I tried to cancel again because of the iffy weather, but I couldn’t talk Bill and Ercan out of it, so we went. In spite of a white-out on the last push for the summit we kept going. The weather cleared for some fantastic views. See Steve’s write up for more details. One notable exception for our group is that we climbed the whole mountain. Undaunted climbers were B. Kelley, E. Acar, and leader, T. Weimer.

Mt. Hood Climb, May 14-15
Eleven Chemeketans under the leadership of Mike Rudy met at Mazama Lodge for a pre-climb meal and three-hour nap. Upon their 1:00 a.m. arrival at Timberline Lodge (6000’) they made a last minute decision to have a Snocat transport the group to the top of the Palmer Chairlift (8600’). The tightly packed snocat took 30 minutes to climb the 2600’. Conditions were mild with very little wind and temperatures close to freezing. Few stars and no lights from Portland confirmed that low and high clouds were present. The group began climbing at 2:15 a.m. on the moonless night. As they made their way around Crater Rock, Mike Rudy complained of stomach cramps. Assistant leader, Stefan Gonzalez, volunteered to turn around with Mike. Steve Dougherty assumed leadership of the group with the remaining assistant leader, Brad Tedrow. The group arrived at the Hog’s Back at about 4:45 a.m. where they roped up into two rope teams. Climbers were protected with pickets above the bergshrund. The group arrived on the cold and cloudy summit at 6:50 a.m. with six of the nine summiting climbers claiming their first Mt. Hood summits. Surprisingly, the clouds parted during most of the 30 minutes spent on the summit affording views of all summits from Rainier to Broken Top. Low clouds reduced visibility as they descended below Crater Rock. Group members stayed close together and followed a magnetic south bearing to navigate back to the top of the Palmer Chairlift where they followed the groomed climber’s trail down to Timberline Lodge. The group returned to Mazama Lodge for showers and the awarding of summit certificates before returning to Salem. Participants were M. Rudy(leader), S.Dougherty, B.Tedrow (assistant), S.Gonzalez (assistant), R.Smith, T.Smith, B.Fukuda, G.Tedrow, J.Ellis, E.Destival, and K.Kraschel.

Elk and Kings Mts. Traverse, May 15
My blue, long-sleeved shirt billowing in the wind, I biked the three miles up Hwy. 6 in the Tillamook State Forest to our van left parked at the Elk trailhead where we had started our heart-pounding traverse to Kings. The day had been cool with wet foliage to brush against, helping to dissipate the metabolic heat generated by our efforts in negotiating Elk’s bouldery trail that snakes through some 2000 feet of vertical in about two miles to her summit. Almost literally dropping over her side through a flower-filled shoot, we continued on a winding, less-demanding route that took us to the north side of Kings. Here, a long series of short, steep switchbacks finally took us to a gentle slope that lead to the summit. After that, it was a downhill cakewalk to Kings’ trailhead where the bicycle lay patiently behind a moss-covered log. Sometime later, we were in McMinnville taking part in their annual space alien celebration by eating and drinking in the town’s McMenamins. We felt a little out of place, though, with no bouncy head wires. Commendable hikers: Phillips, Watkins, Gabriel, Cooper, Parker, Truneckova, Carter, guest Short, and leader Slattum.

Turner-Stayton Bike Ride, May 16
Dark clouds and forecasts of showers did not prevent four riders from enjoying a nice ride. We ran into a shower soon after starting the trip, but quickly dried out after warming up on the hills. The local dogs seemed to be attracted to Jon’s bright orange ODOT jacket but none were able to catch him. The rest of the day was perfect biking weather and we made a speedy return after filling up on hamburgers and ice cream. Guest: Jon Guido, members S. Wardwell, I. Dayton, leader R. Roner

McKenzie River Trail Hike, May 19
Six sanguine strollers savored a saunter on the McKenzie River Trail, from where the trail crosses the highway just below Clear Lake down to Trailbridge Reservoir. The McKenzie was quite full -- most noticeable as it thundered over Sahalie Falls. We reveled in the beauty of the forest, the roar of the river, then the silence as we followed the dry riverbed and contemplated the river flowing several meters under us. We ate lunch overlooking the awesome Tamolitch Pool, and reached the car almost before we were ready! The six were E. Benninghoff, D. and M. Conrad, T. Talbott, J. Templar, and leader G. Struble.

Luckiamute River Canoe/Kayak, May 22
Seventeen canoeists and kayakers paddled nine miles on the Luckiamute River from Hemlick State Park to the Donaldson Bridge, before it reaches the Willamette River. We had a playful trip with good current, a section of rapids, and some fun elevation drops over small waterfalls. This was the earliest in the year that we’ve run this river. Paddlers liked the higher & faster water. At our half-way sandbank picnic spot, we had our 2nd offical Chemeketan new boat christening ceremony of the month--the Johnson’s blue canoe was offically named Blue Babe after Paul Bunyon’s ox (because son Daniel said it felt that heavy when he carried it!). Our congenial paddlers consisted of guests Carolyn & Paul Guthrie, Vivian Byers, Gail Kellor, Martin Axford, Martin Hauge, Marsha Smith, juniors Molly Mack and Daniel Johnson; members George Susbauer, Joyce Gleason, Roland Mack, Susan Arbor, Peter Kelly, Rod Johnson and leaders Laurelyn Schellin and Georgia Heald.

Henline Mtn, May 22
The day was cloudy as we left town and wet as we hiked up Henline Mtn. We were dressed for the weather, but still ate a very quick lunch at the top because we were cold and wet. As we came down the rain let up and we returned to a dry Salem. It was a good hike with just the exercise we needed. Hikers were J Webb, G Taylor, D Foulger, S Schmidt, B Custer, D DeLespinasse, and J Ross, leader.