Paulina Peak - Newberry Caldera

Although the Paulina Peak trail is still closed, the ranger said we could still hike if we wanted to. Warning of steep areas covered in snow, she said we would be one of the first this year to hike to the top! Sparing you all the details, I'll just say she was right - it was an extremely challenging trail, but the reward we got was worth it! Paulina Lake had a mesmerizing shade of blue, almost looking tropical. Don't let the photo fool you, though. That water is cold! When the snow melts and the trail officially opens, I'm definitely planning on going up again.
For any non-hikers, you can see this view for yourself, too! The viewpoint is accessible by car, and you can drive right to the top. However, you'll have to wait for the road to open, because right now that is covered in snow and closed for the season.

Newberry Crater - Little Crater

Yesterday I headed out to Newberry Crater for a hike, only to be told that the trail I wanted to use was still covered in snow and "closed". The ranger recommended Little Crater - not nearly as long of a hike, and not as much of a climb, but snow free. The Little Crater Loop is just shy of 2 miles long, and perfect for families. While on the loop, you can sneak a peek at East Lake, and get a very pretty view of Paulina Lake (the Twin Crater lakes).

The view was pretty, but we wanted more! To be continued...
(hint - the Photo/view tomorrow comes from the top of the peak on the left)

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Tam-a-láu Trail - Cove Palisades State Park

Tam-a-láu trail is a hike that I had never heard of before. Near Culver, Tam-a-láu trail is located in Cove Palisades State Park. A fairly easy-moderate 1 mile hike (gaining 600 ft) gets you to the top of the canyon, with beautiful views of the rivers/lakes, mountains, and the beauty that surrounds the area. Once you get to the top, there is a 4 mile flat loop that you can choose to do. If you have the time, I recommend it!

Smith Rock - Misery Ridge

I've done 3 hikes so far this year, and so far the shortest hike (up), has been the hardest. Misery Ridge at Smith Rock is a 3/4 mile hike (from the bottom of the trail to the top of Smith Rock), and although short, was fairly tough on this out of shape girl. Saying that, the views are spectacular! Pictures really do not do it justice. From the top, you can decide whether you want to go down the same way you went up, or take a much longer route down and around - we chose the latter (down the Mesa Verde trail, and along the river trail ~ 3 miles).  

View from Black Butte

Now that Spring/Summer weather is starting to show its face in Central Oregon, it's time for me to go explore! Last weekend I hiked up Black Butte. If you're in the area and never been, I recommend it! It's a bit tough at places, but bring plenty of water (and a camera), and take breaks if needed. You won't regret it, the views are amazing! Here is one of the wonderful views from about midway up Black Butte:

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