Climate Climax

Looking West Down the Columbia River Valley in Eastern Oregon
with Mt Hood in the Distance

We are spending two nights in Boardman, OR, having finally joined the Columbia River. Where it flows through eastern Washington/Oregon, about 2 inches of rain falls yearly. After the river passes through the "Gorge" to the Western side of the Cascades, it's banks are welcoming 200 inches of rain yearly and covered with verdant forest. This 100-fold difference in precipitation collides abruptly in the Columbia River Valley in the region between the Dalles and Hood River.

William Clark seemed to have made the majority of notations about the countryside as he and Lewis proceeded downriver to their final destination. His log from this section is notable for how rapidly the vegetation changes almost daily, from desert grass, to scrub oak, to major forest.

We drove up the valley as far as Hood River, where we had lunch in the 3-Rivers Grill on the deck overlooking the valley and river, with wind surfers and para sails dotting the river. (Apparently the wind through here is quite constant.)



Before returning to Boardman, we took the "Fruit Loop," a winding tour route through small and large orchards, vineyards, and groves in the Hood R. Valley south the town of Hood River. We found some great peaches, but were a little late for the peak berry season and a little early for the peak apple and pear season. Still, we found the country side beautiful, and some of the produce stores and stands proved rewarding to explore.







I must admit that I am usually reluctant to take a long break from my practice "just" to travel around in our motorhome. It seems so "inefficient" to be just wandering around taking in the sights rather than being productive by staying and working. Earning money always to me seemed somehow a greater moral state than spending money. Once I hit the road however, I realize that the experiences contribute to making "me" better.

I think I am fairly well travelled, but I am still amazed by the expanse, variety and wonderful contrast this country offers the modern explorer.