We left our hotel at 9 AM heading to our final destination of Hood River, Oregon via the stunning Columbia River Gorge.
Our initial route through downtown Oregon out to the Columbia river came with a detour; the bridge that we intended to take to cross the Willamette River was closed due to construction. So, with some help from my trusty GPS, we re-routed through the City of Gresham and on through the quaint town of Troutdale. Along the way, I was impressed with the excellent public transportation system in the greater Portland area. Between the light rail system and a bicycle, there aren't many places that you can't go for practically nothing.
Next stop along the way was a great little town that really commences the beginning of the Columbia River Gorge (CRG) is Corbett. Corbett reminds you of many small towns that you might find in Gold Rush era communities. This portal to the main part of the CRG is a beautiful departure from towns and cities to eye-popping beauty. From the minute that you leave Corbett and for the next forty miles or so, it is one gorgeous scene every mile that you travel. Nearly every mile has a waterfall, a dramatic vista, unusual and losh foliage and thousands of flowers in bloom and the smell of many varieties of pines and balsam cedar.
Departing the most scenic part of the gorge starts some unexpected, VERY steep climbs. A few of the grades were in excess of 15%.
We paralleled the Columbia River for many miles before arriving in Hood River. Along the way we encountered dams for the generation of electric power, locks, and even fish ladders for salmon. Approaching Hood River, we encountered a paddle wheel tour boat. Due to a strong tail wind, we easily outpaced the boat.
Because of all the stops and the unexpected climbs, we didn't arrive at our hotel until after 7 P.M., completely spent but with a smile on our faces.
Today's Ride: 71 miles -- 3100 feet of climb
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