Astoria - San Francisco of the Northwest

Astoria is nicknamed the San Francisco of the Northwest, and it is well named because much of the town is build on the side of steep hills.  Atop one of the hills is the Astoria Column.  From the parking lot or from the top of the column the views are magnificent.

Similar to San Francisco, trolleys ran along the coast during the day.

We were also fortunate enough to purchase fresh salmon right off the boat.  The next evening Sandy, Bettie, and Rick prepared an outstanding dinner that was an epicurean delight.

The Maritime Museum was probably the most interesting place that we visited.  The displays showed the life of a fishing village when Astoria was one of the largest canneries of salmon.  It also explained the dangers that were faced on a daily basis by those who ventured out of the Columbia River into the Pacific.  They had to cross the bar which has claimed hundreds of lives.  After touring the museum we boarded the Columbia that was "light ship" that warned ships as they traveled to the river.

Largest Sea Cave - More Sea Lions

While we were in Florence we visited an excellent aquarium.  The displays showcased a variety of specimens of sea life.

We saw seahorses.......................

jellyfish..........................

and puffins.

We traveled from Florence, OR, to Newport.  On the way we stopped at the largest sea cave where sea lions mate and raise their young.  During the summer they are found on the beaches near the cave.  But before we got to go down into the cave we had to park the coaches.  What an experience!  We practically met the tow cars as we drove around three sharp switchbacks.  We were relieved once we were on top at the parking area; then we realized that we had to go back down the same road.

After arriving at Newport we took a short trip to a lighthouse which we climbed the circular staircase of 114 steps.  The view was breath taking.

Ever Seen a Sea Lion?

Monday we traveled down the coast and saw more beautiful scenery. Along Highway 101 we saw this bridge nestled among the pine trees.

We were also intrigued by the wildflowers that flourished all along the highway.

We continued our journey to our destination in Charleston which is a scenic working fishing village. We had fresh oyster sandwiches which were delicious and strolled down the quaint streets that catered to tourists visiting the area.

We left the small town and traveled to a viewing area on Coos Bay where we could view hundreds of sea lions.  You couldn't miss the location because you could hear their barkings from miles away. Even though it was a misty afternoon we still enjoyed watching the antics of the sea lions.

One More Place Checked Off Our "Bucket List"

Sunday we traveled on one of the most beautiful highways in America.  We passed through dense forests of pines, along sparkling mountain rivers and over mountain passes that showcased magnificent scenic views.  Today, we saw the Pacific Ocean for the first time.  And, yes, it was as impressive as we had dreamed.

Redmond International FMCA Rally

We arrived on Monday and were parked among over 2000 motorhomes.  The rally was packed with seminars and entertainment.  Bettie and I learned more about the maintenance of our motorhome and the advantages of being members of FMCA.  We also thoroughly enjoyed the entertainment which included   Debbie Reynolds, Texas Tenors, Live Bait and Motown for Ever.  Each show had its unique style and was was most enjoyable.  Sunday we left for the Pacific Coast.

Columbia River Gorge - Wind Surfing Capital

We continued to Cascade Locks KOA where we spent two days. On Saturday we spent the day exploring the magnificent waterfalls along historic highway 30.  Rick and I walked the trail up to the top of Horsetail Falls, which is a 176 ft. falls what is fed by springs.  Bettie and Sandy enjoyed the view and the spray from the falls.

The next stop was Multnomah Falls which plunges 620 feet from the top to a basin at the bottom.  It is the second largest falls in the United states and is probably one of the most photographed falls in America.  Bettie and I hiked to the top which was well worth the climb.  We could see for miles across the river gorge. 

That afternoon we traveled to Hood River and were treated to a surfing show extraordinaire.  We saw men wind surfing and kite boarding.  What a intriguing experience; it was fascinating.

Sunday, we traveled to Prineville, OR, and will be joining with the Schmiedts to travel to Redmond.





It has been a great trip full of spectacular sights!

Coeur d' alene Put the WOW in Lake Scenery

We arrived on Wednesday at Blackwell RV Park and Marina which is situated on a pristene lake.  That evening we had dinner at the Cedars Restaurant which is a floating restaurant.  The meals were excellent.

The next day we took a cruise around the lake to really see the beautiful landscape and homes that are situated on bluffs around the lake.

On our cruise we had an opportunity to see the floating golf hole that is accessed by boat.  You had better be accurate or you would have to go for a swim to get your ball.

The weather continues to be great and we will be on the road again on to Columbia River Gorge.

 

Visiting Family in Bozeman

We arrived in Bozeman, MT, on Friday, July 30th.  What a great time we had with our kids and grandchildren.  The grandkids had a great time riding their new bikes which was their Christmas and birthday presents.  It seemed wise for them to get them in July rather than December. 

On Saturday, the kids came out and we played and played in the pool.  What a great way  to cool off when the temperatures are in the 90's. We ended the day with dinner at McKenzie River Pizza.  As usual we had a great dinner.  Ike chose his favorite, peanut and honey pizza.  Yes, it is good!

Sunday we went to church and had a Mexican lunch.  The best part of the day a short hike to the top of a peak in the campground.

We left on Wednesday to continue our adventure to Coeur d'alene.