The balsam root and lupine wildflowers in the Columbia Gorge were remarkable this year. High winds turned my first visit into just a scouting trip. So I watched the weather forecasts and returned two days later when low winds were predicted. Other than the fact that the view of Mt. Hood was obscured, the conditions were perfect for photos – no wind and cloudy skies. I returned yet again four days later to show Martha the amazing display. Since I had already bagged a large number of good images, it was just a good walk and I had no problem with the weekend crowds, bright sun, and moderate wind.

The trip’s photo album can be found here: Columbia Hills Wildflowers Gallery