Spring Fever in the Gorge!
Sunshine, daffodils pushing through, almost time to mow the lawn! Is it really on Mid February? The air temperatures today remind us that it is still Winter, 25 degrees, heavy frost layered in the yard as the sun peaks over the mountains and shines into the yard. Limited snow pack in the mountains and access to areas that are usually feet deep in the white stuff. But, it is still Winter in the Gorge. So what does that mean for outdoor adventurist? Be respectful and enjoy safely!
The Oregon side of our beautiful Gorge is still limited and closed access after last summer's devastating fire. So for all the non-locals who are coming over to our Washington side to take advantage of this amazing weather need to know a few facts before the take on an adventure.
Many of our forest roads close from Dec 1 until April 1 each year. A gate across a road, means its closed, please don't decide to ride your quads or motorcycle around the gate, the gate is there for a reason! Respect the closed gate. Many areas are closed for safety and some are for winter breeding grounds with respect to wildlife. This weekend out here on Bearcreek we had 2 pick ups with trailers hauling 4 -wheelers. A Bearcreek Rd resident approached them and questioned their intentions? Feedback came, "well there is no sign on the gate?". So they were warned to not be upset if they get a fine from our county law enforcement.
Even if you decide to access the road on foot, hike or snow shoe in to areas you need to realize, emergency crews can not easily access you when you go beyond closed gates. The Lower Cape Horn trail is closed to foot traffic for the winter migration and breeding of Peregrine
Falcons. Respect Nature.
There are many hiking trails that are open, but please be the prepared hiker. These trails are not cleaned up in the Winter, that does not start until March or April usually. There can be downed trees, trail sections washed out from rain and debris. The ground is very muddy and even icy up higher elevations. Which translates: slippery, loose rocks, limited access even. I am a year round hiker! But go out there prepared so you can enjoy safely!
Be prepared to encounter bad areas on trails ( wear good boots, even carry boot chains and trekking poles). The sun is shining but the temperatures are still winter, dress for it. Pack emergency first aid supplies incase you get stuck out there longer than planned. There is limited cell phone service in all areas of the Gorge, while you are hiking, your phone is roaming to find service and draining the battery, do you carry a back up battery charge supply? Local Emergency Crews want you to enjoy our backyard safely.
I should not even have to mention but, pack out your garbage! Last weekend as we did our daily 4 mile walk, we picked up a garbage sack full of tossed out beer and pop cans, disposable coffee cups and various debris from sloppy humans. Respect Nature and keep it beautiful so we can all enjoy it.
Research your adventure a little before you head out. Be sure the area is open, accessible, weather conditions and know your limitations. Not everyone should try Dog Mountain. Even the hardy experienced hikers can suffer from muscle cramps due to cold conditions. Be prepared, have a fun and safe adventure and be respectful of nature and that the Gorge while enjoyed as a playground to many is our home.