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Date:  March 15, 2003

Location  Catherine Creek Hike

Where:  Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

 

"The Arch" at Catherine Creek

This Catherine Creek Hike is one of a series of hikes sponsored by The Friends of the Columbia Gorge to introduce people to some of the wonderful hiking trails in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Although my wife Jeanette and I have hiked in the Catherine Creek area many times, we went along to see what new things we could learn. This hike drew a large crowd and we enjoyed meeting lots of other people and sharing our common interest in hiking and wildflowers. One of the most spectacular geological features is the huge rock arch located a short distance in which is always a stunning site.

Hiking up Catherine Creek towards Bathtub Spring - - insert - Yellow Bells

This time of the season the Grass Widows are in the prime along with Gold Stars, Smooth Prairie Stars, and Yellow Bells. Our route took us past the arch and then up the east side of Catherine Creek, past Bathtub Spring and out across the grassland of Tracy Hill. From there the views across the Gorge always cause one to stop and stare in awe.

Hiking down Tracy Hill - - insert - Grass Widow

Oaks Toothwort
Shooting Star
Smooth Praire Star