Greg and I got up EARLY (5:30!) so that we could head out to the eastern Gorge on Sunday and catch the good morning light. Our first stop was the Dalles Mountain Ranch. Unfortunately, it is still too early for wildflowers there. There were a few patches of Balsamroot near the parking area, but we still have a ways to go before the big showy displays.
But the trek was not for nothing. We saw quite a few deer. Several crossed the road in front of us just as we approached the parking area, and then more followed. I got this shot from the parking area, looking back down the road.
And we had a lovely view of Mt. Hood, shining in the morning sun.
Looking up the road from the parking area. Not many flowers yet.
One patch of Balsamroot, ahead of the game.
Look at that blue sky! It was a really gorgeous morning out there. Warm and pleasant with no wind, and the birds singing like they were just as happy as I was for the glorious spring weather. We will be back here in a few weeks to see the wildflower show.
Oh, by the way, Rowena Plateau is even further behind than this spot. We saw even fewer Balsamroot down there than here.
