Exploring New Trails

I have always enjoyed exploring new locations, new trails, and new healthy habits. For me, it is a part of keeping fitness and health interesting and enjoyable. Last night I tried a new healthy recipe in my instant pot; spicy Peruvian chicken. It was not a total success, but it was still fun to have a new taste. And it reminded me of a very fun trip to Peru.

Luckily my new hiking adventures were much more fun. Yesterday, Hanne and I hiked up to the top of Cline Butte. This was a new hike for both of us, and we really enjoyed the views along the way. The hike was about 5 miles, and gained about 1000 feet in elevation.

Cline Butte



Cascade Mountain views









Valley view



Me at the top, Mt Jefferson in the background



Hanne



Earlier in the week we hiked to Fryrear Canyon. This is a new favorite hike for me! Stunning rock canyon walls.





Colorful lichens





The branches of this ponderosa pine reminded me of a candelabra



We searched the rock walls, and were rewarded by finding a small native American pictograph. I could just imagine an early campsite, and someone documenting their stay. The images are very old and somewhat faded, but beautiful and exciting to see in their natural environment.





We also hiked from Petersen Pond to black lava trail, Following the irrigation canals.

Peterson pond





This was a very cold morning, and there were interesting ice formations in the canal.







We had glimpses of the Cascade Mountains in the distance.





And twisted old Juniper trees





All in all, it was a great week of adventure hikes!