Devil's Rest

Needing a little conditioning for the upcoming Sedona Elderhostel trip we set out for the gorge on a cloudy, windy day. We got what we wanted in elevation gain (2400 feet), and about 6.5 miles in under 4 hours. As usual there are picture opportunities along the way.

The start is at the Wahkeena Falls picnic grounds on the old Columbia highway. The hike is in two sections: along Wahkeena Creek to a saddle and then up a ridge to the high point.

Yes, we have finally recovered to hike again - but oooh the aching bodies. Dang those winter layoffs.


 

Fairy Falls along Wahkeena Creek

 

Mt Adams from the ridge trail - about 40 miles away

 

Trail sign at Devil's Rest: the turn-around point

 

There were three unusual sights along the trail today:

#1 A couple hiking in tandem connected with a 5 foot bungee cord. Was she sight impaired? Not likely with the trail so debris littered from the winter storms.

#2 Three middle-aged ladies running down the trail from Devil's Rest. They were all decked out in fancy running gear and having way too much fun.

#3 An elderly lady laying prone crosswise on a lower wooden bridge. Did she want us to hop over her or use her belly as a stepping stone? She did manage to sit up when she sensed that we really did want to cross the bridge. Our hiking poles might have made a lasting impression.