Today we got up to overcast skies and cool temps. We decided to go back and hike some of the falls trails. Our first stop was at the Latourell Falls the farthest from the CG. We were told that hiking the one-mile to the base of the falls put you in a grotto that was spectacular. The ranger that gave us that info was not wrong.
Next we tackled the one mile – one way Wahkeena Falls trail. Again we were not disappointed.
Ron then wanted to tackle the trail up the Multnomah Falls to the overlook over one mile up. I wasn’t sure if we could make it because the trail was sooo steep with 11 switchbacks. We had already done over three miles of hikes but we gave it a try anyway.
I called this waterfall by several different names - none correct. But I think everyone gets the idea. LOL
As we began the uphill hike I noticed someone familiar coming down the trail. If anyone watches “The Biggest Loser “ you will recognize the guy in the picture. If not, it is Arthur. Before joining the Biggest Loser contestant this season. He weighed over 700 pounds – now weighs in around 300 pounds and told us he made it to the top in 32 minutes. For sure then we can conquer the mountain!!!!
We got about 3/4 of the way up and Ron was very distressed having a hard time with the climb. Even after stopping to rest he was unable to recoup. I finally convinced him to stop the hike and return down the trail. He did but felt really bad about not being able to finish that trail. No need to feel bad about the side effects of his treatment.
After talking it over we determined that we probably should have done that hike first instead of after already hiking more then 3 miles. We headed back to the MH for a brief rest planning to return to do another hike up to Ponytail Falls and then into the Oneonta Gorge.
Back at the Horsetail Falls we started the hike up to Ponytail Falls – another one-mile hike. This time it was me that had some trouble traversing the trail. I had to stop a couple of times and Ronnie just kept on plugging proving to himself that he could still do a difficult hike. Needless to say he left me in the lurch and got to the Ponytail Falls without me. I hiked back to the base and waited for him to finish the trail.
Jewel wasn’t too happy about being near the falls so she stayed as far away as possible.
After leaving Ponytail Falls we stopped at the Oneonta Gorge hoping to be able to walk a distance into the Gorge. Unfortunately the way in was blocked by logs and debris. If we had gotten there earlier in the day instead of 7 PM we would have tried to venture in farther but it was late and getting cold so we forfeited the attempt.
It was a great day except for the failed attempt at the Multnomah Falls trail and being left behind on the trail to Ponytail Falls. Ron has resolved to come back and conquer the Multnomah Falls trail when he is back to feeling 100%.
Tomorrow we will be in Auburn Washington with our West Coast Family!!!! YEAH!!!!!
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