We chose the Northern-most one because of the swell rail trail from Banks to Vernonia.
First we had to get to the trailhead in Banks by riding through farmland... gorgeous wheat, hay and berry fields. We stopped when we saw a sign for Marion berries. We had seen them featured in an episode of "Portlandia" and had never tried them. We thought they were a unique berry that Oregon folks were proud of but wasn’t that great, just unique. Well. they were amazing and we hid out in a dirty old farm equipment shed and ate a whole pint!
The landscape in this part of Oregon is golden and rolls away from your eyes towards distant mountains. Beautiful quiet roads and fair weather.
With bellies full of berries we made it to the trailhead and entered into the peaceful, serene world of this trail.
The weather was dry and the air was sweet as we peddled slowly along on a gorgeous trail that wound its way gently up into the mountains:
After lunch we found the trail to the hike and campsite. It was ¾ mile on a hiking trail, but we decided to try to ride our bikes up there. It was quite a fun challenge as we navigated steep grades and roots.
But we made it, and found ourselves in one of the most beautiful campsites I have seen. Hike and Bike campsites run by the state are inexpensive, usually $5 a person.
The campsite is close to the ranger station, has bathrooms and water but feels remote. We slept very well!
Looks like another great day! What big berry-tinted smiles you two have! :)
ReplyDeleteLove the berry lips.
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