White River Canyon

On one of our rare non-test weekends, we headed to the snow once again! This time our destination was White River Canyon at Mt. Hood. We grabbed our gear and hit the road. After a lovely 1.5hr drive, we arrived in Government Camp. We bought the parking pass for White River Canyon and briefly looked around town. It's so new and quaint! There are a handful of restaurants, a bakery, a general store, and a hotel.

We then headed to White River Canyon, about five minutes away by car. It was a beautiful, clear day; we didn't need to dress in many layers. Plus, one builds up quite a sweat when snowshoeing! We geared up and began our trek. The snow was quite crusty, which actually proved rather satisfying. Unlike downhill skiing or snowboarding, snowshoeing doesn't seem to depend as much on the snow conditions. As long as there is snow, we can 'shoe!

We walked toward Mt. Hood's peak for about an hour and then headed back. The pace was relaxing and allowed us to take in the natural beauty all around us. We love being surrounded by the vast sky, big open spaces, pristine white snow, and stately trees. How wonderful to feel so at One with Nature, so at peace. :) At one point we walked down to the river to appreciate its brisk movement along the jagged rocks and silty riverbed.

Just as we returned to the car, the sun began to set, providing a beautiful glowing red sky of a backdrop behind Hood. We felt satisfied with another great day in the snow! Our journey home included a dinner stop at the Rendezvous Grill in Welches. We both enjoyed a bacon cheeseburger with Raclette. Yum!! (To clarify, we each enjoyed our own burger--we had worked up quite an appetite!) This restaurant is family owned and has such a comfortable atmosphere, great service, and delicious food! We hope to dine there again!