Viking Fest in Poulsbo WA—May 2024 Looked so fun on the website, but I didn't make it this year . . . Astoria Scandinavian Midsummer Festival, June 21-23, 2024 --Clatsop County Fair & Expo Center, 92937 Walluski Loop, Astoria, OR 97103 Inside the Venue--the Arena and the Exhibit Hall (more about the Venue in an upcoming post with Astoria) Vendors were set up in the Arena room; here are only a few . . . challenging, as always, to take pics of the vendors without lots of people between the camera and the booths. Kid Activities were set up in the Arena room as well . . . There were many more food vendors than I expected, and couldn't try them all, much as I wished I could. Here are a few . . . I was enthralled with the performers, took a lot of pictures (too many to include here), but again, wasn't able to catch them all . . . Ceremonies for the festival royalty, raising the pole, audience participation dancing, and tug o'wars . . . Beer Garden--I was looking for the horses, but they were not in the barn, the Beer Garden was. Icelandic Horses Costumes--I wasn't able to catch the parade as it moved through both the Arena and Exhibit Hall . . . there was a costume show explaining about the heirlooms (a good word, since as far as I remember all the women's costumes were hand woven and embroidered and handed down from generation to generation). Of course throughout the day were many winsome wearers. Viking Encampment & re-enactors The spokesman for the portrayals admitted that their armor and setting was not exactly authentic to the Vikings: for the sake of safety, they cordoned off a zone of action, and wore protective gear of a later date. Of course, they also had rules of engagement that were to prevent causing any actual wounds. It was still very entertaining, and he had us all enthusiastically cheering them on with pretended calls for bloody violence. Astoria Scandinavian Midsummer Festival--June 21-23, 2024; news magazine sample content below. Astoria Nordic Heritage Park and the Finnish Brotherhood Hall in Astoria OR, and a couple other connections. Oregon Midsummer Festival at Nordic Northwest—June 28-29, 2024 8800 SW Oleson Rd, Portland OR Fogelbo house not open at the time; periodic tours are available. An interesting and informative article about Fogelbo Reconnoiter of the grounds of Oregon Midsummer Festival at Nordic Northwest Viking Encampment Activities Booths--outside & in Performers--principally an Estonian dance group, and Vasa Rosebuds dance local dance group for over 100 yrs. I wondered about Estonian dances at a Scandinavian or Nordic festival, but the announcer explained that Sweden ruled the area of Estonia for a long time, and some of the Swedish cultural influencees remained after they had gone. I took many more photos than these, entranced by the dancers and their costumes. As before, there was lots of delicious food on offer . . . At the Midsummer Pole Nordia House at Nordic Northwest--8800 SW Oleson Rd, Portland OR A big screen just inside the door cycles through the frequent events & activities offered at Nordic Northwest, and photos of the Nordic Countries. Junction City Scandinavian Festival—2nd Thurs thru Sunday in August 195 W 5th Ave, Junction City OR Unfortunately, I had already made reservations for the Midsummer Renaissance Faire below, and couldn't go to both in 2024. Hope to go in future. Midsummer Renaissance Faire—5 weekends in July & Aug Vikings & Barbarians weekend: Aug 10-11 18601 Sky Meadows Lane, Snohomish, WA 98290 Rainier’s NorseWest Viking Fest—Sept 11-12, 2024; --Wilkowski Park in Rainier WA Norse West Viking Festival, one week in September; free 750 Mill Rd SE, Yelm WA Viking Festivals Around the World Books and Links to Scandinavians & Vikings, and Nordic Influence
History of Scandinavia: Every Year—8 min video of how the map changed from 200 AD to present History of Scandianavia—7.5 min video (year by year, wider map) Where is Scandinavia? (Does it include Finland?)—3.5 min video discussion Is Finland a Scandinavian Country?—entertaining 14 min video with history & some geography, linguistics ... Lapland Nordic influence in Estonia Countries That Were Raided or Settled by the Vikings
Nordic influence on Modern Culture “How to Train Your Dragon” and “Frozen” films Hagar the Horrible comic strip Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” is set in Denmark 100 famous Scandinavians
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Hwy 6 Hwy 26 west from Portland OR to the Coast/US Hwy 101 needs badly to be widened all the way. About 20 miles west of Portland, Hwy 6 is an exit to the left off Hwy 26. It's a beautiful ride out in the country (as is much of Hwy 26 once past the Portland metro area), until it starts uphill into the Coast Range. In the mountains the highway department has a real challenge with slope stabilization for a long way (rough road). As might be expected, there are trailheads & campgrounds along the way. Below are some places to go/see. John W. Blodgett Arboretum of Pacific University--Gales Creek in the Coast Range west of Glenwood OR Tillamook Burn historic marker—milepost 29.68 on Hwy 6
Tillamook Forestry Center-- 45500 Wilson River Highway (aka Hwy 6), east of Tillamook OR It's a one way drive through the parking lot of the forestry center. There's parking for regular vehicles and longer ones. There's a day-use area with restrooms a half mile east, in case it's after hours. Tillamook OR The beautiful forested Coast Range opens up to a beautiful flat farmland valley of Tillamook OR. Tillamook Air Museum--6030 Hangar Rd, Tillamook, OR 97141 Port of Tillamook & Officer’s Row--Blimp Blvd off Long Prairie Rd, Tillamook OR Port of Tillamook--4000 Blimp Blvd, Tillamook, OR 97141 Fairview Grange--5520 Third St, Tillamook OR Tillamook County Fairgrounds--4603 3rd St, Tillamook, OR 97141 Lillian A. Goodspeed Park & skate park--2800 3rd St, Tillamook, OR 97141 Tillamook City Tillamook County Pioneer Museum—2106 2nd St, Tillamook, OR 97141
Cape Meares Lighthouse--3500 Cape Meares Loop, Tillamook, OR 97141 One of my principal purposes for going to Tillamook was to see this lighthouse. By the time I arrived the fog was rolling in, so no clear views of the ocean, but I think still plenty of interesting and lovely views. I missed seeing the Octopus Tree, as it was unclear to me whether it was up the road .1 mi, or up the trail by the restroom. The person I asked didn't know (had only been there many years ago), and my wheelchair battery was dangerously low, so I didn't dare explore further with it. Too bad! It appears to have been up the trail by the restroom only .1 mi. Memaloose Point Boat Launch--1985 Bayocean Rd NW, Tillamook, OR 97141 Returning to Tillamook from the west North of Town Blue Heron French Cheese Co-- 2001 Blue Heron Rd A, Tillamook, OR 97141 Lattimer Quilt & Textile Center--2105 Wilson River Loop, Tillamook, OR 97141, an inconspicuous road/place Tillamook Creamery-- 4165 N Hwy 101, Tillamook, OR 97141 This was another principal objective of my trip to Tillamook. I arrived late in the day, which made it easier to take less obstructed photos. I'm including a pic of a truck from Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum in Hood River OR. Bay City OR Garibaldi OR Barview OR Rockaway Beach OR Wheeler OR Nehalem OR Nehalem Bay State Park OR Manzanita OR Cannon Beach OR Seaside OR For content from previous trips to Seaside, seeFor more about the Corps of Discovery (Lewis & Clark, Sacajawea, York, etc) scroll way down at Gearhart OR Warrenton OR Astoria OR
For travels in the past to Astoria, see Astoria OR Scandinavian Midsummer Festival 2024
June 2024 Update Ever since I was in Estacada in 2020 I have been sorry I missed investigating Timber Park. I had an opportunity to go back in June of 2024, and was able to explore more of Estacada, as well as check out Bonnie Lure State Rec Area, and the Carver OR . . . In the general "neighborhood" are the Philip Foster Farm, the Baker Cabin, and Barton on the Oregon Trail. For more about those, scroll down at A few more pics of historic downtown Estacada . . . with a few more murals, but not all, by any means! Heading up the hill to Wade Creek Park, past schools and more opportunities for eats & picnic supplies if in need. Wade Creek Park--747 NW Wade St, Estacada, OR 97023 Such a family, friends, & community friendly park, surrounding the Estacada Public Library (825 NW Wade St), with its EV chargers & various programs. Estacada Portal Rest Area--805 NW Evergreen Way, Estacada, OR 97023; next to Timber Park Before arriving at the Rest Area, there's a Tourist Info pavilion, RV dump, and drinking water (behind the pavilion) on NW Evergreen Way near Tulip Rd. Timber Park--30878 NW Evergreen Way, Estacada, OR 97023 Really a nice family & group friendly park with good facilities & amenities--group picnic shelters, playground, restrooms, ball fields, disc golf course, non-motorized watercraft launch, fishing . . .
Bonnie Lure State Recreation Area--south of the Eagle Creek bridge on SE Dowty Rd. A day-use place to picnic, walk pets & people, hike, swim at your own risk, and fish. No camping, fires, or alcohol. I wasn't too sure about trying the trail on my own in a wheelchair, so didn't get out of my vehicle. Bonnie Lure State Park on Google Maps is shown north of the creek, at 23689 SE Dowty Rd, Eagle Creek, OR 97022 (bounded by SE Blay Rd & Dowty). But both sites give the following link. Note that the historic Philip Foster Farm is just east of Hwy 224 where you turn west toward Dowty Rd. Carver OR About 20 min NW of Estacada, 5 min SW of Damascus OR, 15 min NE of Oregon City OR is Carver OR. Local business may have Damascus, Boring, or Oregon City addresses, as Carver is unincorporated. Mostly it seems like just an intersection, but there's some interesting history in the area. I didn't see the Carver Event Center until it was too late to look in on it. See link below. When we went to an historical event at the Baker Cabin, we saw the sign for Carver Park. Carver Event Center, in the old Carver School Carver Park--14888 S Springwater Rd, Oregon City, OR 97045 Baker Cabin—off Carver Rd aka S Hattan Rd, a short distance from Carver Park Headed home.
The content of this post is gathered from a trip in Oct 2023 and one the end of May 2024 (because I didn't have time to spend in Brookings the previous Oct). It's a lot to cover, and maybe it makes this post too long. I'm certainly overwhelmed at writing it, so I'm working on it over time. I’ve explored the coast of southern Oregon on more than one trip and keep going back for more😊. Here are links to previous posts: Florence to Port Orford, Dune Buggies and Bandon . . . S. Oregon Coast—June 2020
North Bend OR Horsfall--Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Just north of North Bend is the turn-off for the causeway to Horsfall, part of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, and the North Spit Boat Launch of Coos Bay. North Bend, Coos Bay, and Empire are nearly all one, and share the shoreline of the Coos Bay. Info about Horsfall campground & dunes David Dewett Veterans Memorial and Bay Bridge Motel, just north of the McCullough Bridge North end of North Bend I included photos and info about Dewitt Veterans Memorial and Simpson Park in a previous post. See links at the top of this post. Below are photos of McCullough Memorial Bridge as well as Ferry Road Park. Downtown North Bend OR, up the hill to City Hall, and down at the Boardwalk along Coos Bay South end of North Bend OR Info, photos, and review of The Mill Casino (also Hotel & RV Park), The Pancake Mill, & Captain’s Choice Restaurant in a previous post, see link at the top of this page. Sawmill & Tribal Trail in "The Bay Area" of the southern OR coast, and the Southern Oregon Coast Charm Trail
Visitor Info Center--50 Central Ave, Coos Bay, OR 97420; Broadway & Central--Broadway is southbound Hwy 101 Historic Downtown Coos Bay--the Visitor Center is in the midst of places to see, taste, experience The Blue Heron--100 Commercial Ave, Coos Bay OR 97420; Broadway (southbound Hwy 101) & Commercial Ave For a long time I wanted to try the Oktoberfest plate here, so arranged my trip for October, even though the Oktoberfest plate is available all the time. I awaited opening hour, and had no trouble getting seated in October. I imagine reservations would be in order during the busy times and season. I went looking for landmarks and found some, as pictured below. Coos Bay Elks Lodge in the old Palace Bldg—265 Central Avenue, Coos Bay, OR 97420Old Carnegie Public Library—515 Market St Further wanderings around town Oregon Coast Historical Railway--766 S 1st St, Coos Bay OR 97420; northbound Hwy 101 The Boat Fish & Chips--102 Hall Ave, Coos Bay OR 97420, right next to Oregon Coast Historical Railway Intriguing place & decor. Service and food was fine. West on Commercial Ave toward Empire Empire Since 1965 Empire has been a neighborhood of Coos Bay.Empire Historical Marker
Coos History Museum--1210 N Front St, Coos Bay, OR 97420 Believe it or not, I had to limit the number of photos I included here! Things to explore near Coos History Museum South end of Coos Bay, including Coos Bay Speedway Golden And Silver Falls State Natural Area—take Hwy 241 east from Coos Bay, then to Glenn Creek Rd https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=67 note mileage & inaccessibility The city of Coquille OR published an excellent map, including the county & its towns, in addition to Coquille. Coquille is about 25 mi south of Coos Bay via Hwy 42, past the Coos Bay Speedway. Charleston OR There's more than one way to get to Charleston OR: via North Bend, Coos Bay, or over W Beaverhill Rd north of Bandon. I've gone more than one way, but in Oct 2023 we went by way of the latter, or order to check out the the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve (next section of this post). South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve--61907 Seven Devils Rd, 5 mi from Charleston, OR Was closed when we were there.
Bandon OR New River Langlois Boice Cope Park Denmark Bandon/Port Orford KOA Floras Lake State Natural Area Cape Blanco OR Sixes Port Orford OR Hubbard Creek Beach Port Orford Vista Point Rocky Point Humbug Mountain State Park OR Arizona Beach State Rec Site Prehistoric Gardens Sisters Rock State Park Ophir Wayside Nesika Beach Geisel Monument State Heritage Site Otter Point State Recreation Site North Bailey Beach Access Gold Beach OR Kissing Rock Cape Sebastian Meyers Creek Beach Viewpoint Pistol River Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge Crook Point Arch Rock State Park Spruce Island Viewpoint (Secret Beach) Natural Bridges Thomas Point/Thomas Creek Bridge Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (Diamond View) Whaleshead House Rock Viewpoint Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint Lone Ranch Beach Harris Beach State Park Brookings OR (Chetco Valley Historical Society/Museum) McVay Rock State Recreation Area Winchuck State Recreation Site Brookings Welcome Center Travel magazines & guides
Roseburg OR
Historic Downtown Roseburg I happened on historic downtown by happy accident. Of course I am drawn to historic architecture, parks, maps . . . One of the historic buildings that intrigued me was the Perkins Bldg . . .
Garden Valley Shopping Center--NW Garden Valley Blvd, right off I-5 Roseburg Marketplace--1438 NW Garden Valley Blvd, NW Garden Valley Blvd & NW Stewart Parkway Stewart Park--from NW Stewart Parkway, and along the South Umpqua River
Quality Inn Central Roseburg--427 NW Garden Valley Blvd, Roseburg, OR 97470 Chevron gas & Family Mart--346 NW Garden Valley Blvd, across from Quality Inn Central Roseburg The guy was so accommodating, washed my windshield without being asked . . . good service, anxious to please. Roseburg Regional Airport--3896 NW Stewart Pkwy, Roseburg, OR 97470 Brochures for Roseburg OR Scenic Hwy 138 Glide Ranger Station & Colliding Rivers Viewpoint This is a stop not to be missed, only 17 scenic miles east of Roseburg. The photogenic little old ranger station was built in 1938 by the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps). It's closed now, but the newer station is close by. Though its hours are limited, info and brochures are available on the outside of the buildings. The Colliding Rivers Viewpoint is just across the street, and beautiful. Umpqua National Forest links Very helpful brochures available at the Glide Ranger Station The "Thundering Waters" pamphlet has photos and symbols for amenities for each waterfall, including accessibility. The ranger suggested the "North Umpqua Trail" brochure is helpful even for non-hikers because the trailheads offer room to park or turn around when pull-outs may not be convenient or large enough. The Narrows Wayside, east of Glide OR Swiftwater Park--OR-138, Idleyld Park, OR 97447 The scenic North Umpqua River, near Deadline Falls just east past Swift Water, and toward Fern Falls As heartbreaking the fire damage is, it does clear the views North Umpqua Wild & Scenic River
Baker Wayside, about 12-13 min east of Glide via Hwy 138 (associated with Clay Creek & Richard G. Baker Park) Picnic areas, vault toilet, hikes, river views with a bit of walking. Susan Creek Day Use Area & Falls Trail--about 29 mi east of Roseburg OR on Hwy 138 The sign a half mine west of the Susan Creek area mentions the N Umpqua Trail, which is along the river, not up to the falls. Parking on the right is paved with not quite adequate handicapped parking. The Trailhead parking on the left is also paved, and has better handicapped spots. Pedestrians can cross the highway with care. Note: at that sign is the closest pull-off for accessing the intriguing Tioga Pedestrian Bridge, so I only got a photo in my rearview mirror, and didn't see a reasonable way to get there in my wheelchair. A travel buddy would have made it easier to check out. I was enthused to "hike" the trail to Susan Creek Falls (I didn't think about the name until just now as I'm writing; glad I didn't have to name this section "Susan Falls"), as it was supposed to be accessible. But it's .8 mi, and I didn't realize how uphill. The trail is packed gravel/dirt, and has some water damage that causes complex slopes, so dangerous for wheelchair use. I advise, as always, to have a buddy, and on the way down I was glad there were people behind me. Going downhill can be more scary than going uphill. It was a lovely sunny day when I was there, and I was delighted with the flowers. The fire damage cleared the views some. I was very grateful to the rangers for trail upkeep. Steamboat Creek--45 mi east of Roseburg OR, off Hwy 138 I don't know if the following fotos are in order, I was pretty much lost the whole time I was looking for the falls. I'm not sure the directions match the road numbers. It's tempting to call it a waste of an hour or so, but I guess even failure has value, learning what not to pursue. More hearty intrepid travelers, or those more familiar with the area, might find it less anxiety producing. Steamboat Falls Campground
Somehow in my wanderings in the Steamboat Creek area I came upon what seemed to be a county campground, that was obviously closed at the time. Whitehorse Falls--mile post 65.9 on Highway 138 is the entrance to Whitehorse Falls & Campground After my troubled travel looking for Steamboat Falls (and a harrowing ordeal I won't detail), this was such a wonderful experience. Well, I have to admit to a little trepidation at first, because while I was driving along happily thinking April was the perfect month to travel in southern Oregon, I reached 3500’ altitude: snow patches. Not scary at the side of the road, a little more daunting on the road. As I drove into the entrance of Whitehorse Falls, there was a slushy snow patch that was pretty deeply intimidating (for a solo old wheelchair-bound grandma). Others had gone before me, so I timidly tried to stay in their tracks, and soon made it to the little picnic area, which was clear of snow. I was debating whether I could get out and get to the accessible viewing deck, when another group came. Their leader was the friendly, knowledgeable guy I had met down at the Colliding Rivers Viewpoint. He checked out the trail to the accessible deck, and guided my parking so my ramp could be appropriately deployed. What a great blessing! The deck was great, and the falls were beautiful. Clearwater Falls—70 miles east of Roseburg OR on Hwy 138 I was so disappointed not to be able to see Clearwater Falls, supposed to be another accessible site, but below is what the entrance looked like late April of 2024.
Mt Thielson & Mt Bailey from Hwy 138, near Diamond Lake OR Diamond Lake Recreation Area, Umpqua National Forest, OR Diamond Lake Resort--350 Resort Dr, Diamond Lake, OR 97731 Klamath Falls OR
Hagelstein County Park--17301 US-97, north of Klamath Falls, OR 97601 Mt McLoughlin & Upper Klamath Lake--north of Klamath Falls OR Mt Shasta from Upper Klamath Lake--north of Klamath Falls OR There's a hill on the north side of Hwy 30/Crater Lake Pkwy on Foothills Blvd (the north end of Washburn Way), that might have a good view of Mt Shasta when skies are clear. Check out Steen Sports Park--4500 Foothills Blvd, Klamath Falls OR 97603 Comfort Inn & Suites--2500 S 6th St, Klamath Falls, OR 97601 I enjoyed my stay, except that I thought the ADA room with a tub would work for me, but I couldn't get close enough to the tub seat with my electric wheelchair to be able to make the transfer without great difficulty. There was a little rust around the tub drain. Washburn Way & near Comfort Inn & Suites--2500 S 6th St, Klamath Falls, OR 97601 Downtown Klamath Falls OR See also Klamath County Museum—1451 Main St, Klamath Falls OR 97601 Embedded in the walk up to the entrance to the museum are not only pebble rivers, but little historic plaques. I parked in front where no one could park next to me to allow my van ramp to deploy. I love history and science, so of course I loved this museum, housed in the old Klamath Armory. Below is the text from the plaques.
Brochures for Klamath County and Southern OR
Welcome to Wilsonville OR! Spring of 2024 I wanted to go see the cherry blossoms, either in Hood River or in Wilsonville OR. Wilsonville was much more practical for me, but as I searched out other things to do while there, I got distracted from my original intent while looking at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival, and the free Public Egg Hunt held the day before Easter. I found other places and events of interest as well, as will be seen below. ![]() Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm--33814 S Meridian Rd, Woodburn, OR 97071 Hoping to see the big balloons up in the air meant getting to the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm at sunrise (7am) for the take-off, but leaving an hour late, I could only hope to possibly see the landing, or at least packing them up. My hope was to see something from the parking area. Keeping watch for the balloons in the air all the way down, I was disappointed at that, but delighted at the lovely moon out. As it turned out, one could not even get in the parking area without a ticket (which was way beyond my means). It was just as well I didn’t manage to leave any earlier, as the guy at the ticket booth said they hadn’t been able to lift the balloons aloft because it was too windy. The Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm is actually closer to Hubbard OR than Wilsonville. If not in a hurry, the way is a pleasant rural drive past orchards, vineyards & wineries, over hill & dale (watch for tight curves), farms & fields, and forests. Prospects of prosperous farmers & others with plenty money filled my day, and sometimes there were fine perspectives of Mt Hood. Since the road was too narrow to get an overview of the event, I finally found a narrow connecting road to get a few far away shots. There are many videos of the event on the internet.
Along Meridian Road Though concerned about getting back in time for the Wilsonville Easter Egg Hunt, yet I couldn’t resist a few pics along the way. Unfortunately, I didn’t catch the whimsical farm art I'd passed on the way to the tulip farm. Elliott Prairie Community Church--5364 S Schneider Rd, east of Woodburn, OR 97071; also, south of Hwy 211 aka Woodburn-Estacada Hwy Elliott Prairie Christian School--5383 S Schneider Rd, east of Woodburn, OR 97071, across from the church Whiskey Hill Store--5804 S Whiskey Hill Rd, east of Hubbard, OR 97032, store, cafe, & accommodations; Meridian & Whiskey Hill Rd Ninety-One School--5811 S. Whiskey Hill Rd, east of Hubbard OR; Meridian & Whiskey Hill Rd Lenhardt Airpark--29502 S Meridian Rd, east of Hubbard, OR 97032; next to Ninety-One School Meridian Community Hall aka Meridian Schoolhouse--27995 S Meridian Rd, southeast of Aurora, OR 97002; event center Wilsonville City To get to Memorial Park, where the Wilsonville Easter Egg Hunt was held, take Wilsonville Rd east to Memorial Dr, and turn south. On the right is the Wilsonville Public Library (with EV charging), and to the left is Murase Plaza Park, with an amphitheater, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and a water play feature; the map shows a public garden, wooden bridge across Boekman Creek, and a grove shelter, all to the eastern end of the park.
Memorial Park—8100 SW Memorial Dr, Wilsonville OR 97070 Jessica St winds down the hill from Memorial Drive to the athletic fields and amenities of the 126-acre Memorial Park, where the free community Easter Egg hunt is held. Come early for parking. Town Center Park--29600 Park Pl., Wilsonville, OR 97070 My next destination to explore was Town Center Park, the site of the Cherry Blossom Festival I had missed (and hoped there might still be some blooms), and the Korean War Memorial. It’s such a nice family friendly park to picnic & play, and an excellent place for a history field trip to learn more about the Korean War (a moving, touching experience. Wilsonville Town Center and Main St With my vehicle parked at the park, I went wandering about downtown Wilsonville. There are plenty of places to eat and sleep in the vicinity, as well as a YMCA Day Care Center and other places to care for yourself and others. The Library is close at hand. Bullwinkle’s--29111 Town Center Loop W, Wilsonville, OR 97070 A few years ago, when my grandkids were younger, we went to Bullwinkle’s. It’s not really a place for a solo old grandma in a wheelchair, but a fun place if she is accompanied by her favorite teens. It’s been remodeled since we were there, so they have even more exciting things to do. Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo Maserati & Ferrari--25300 SW Parkway Ave, Wilsonville OR Mercedes-Benz of Wilsonville--25035 SW Parkway Ave, Wilsonville OR With a couple young car enthusiasts, I was impressed by the cheerful, patient, and kind staff at these dealerships a few years ago. I took a lot of pics, but I'll spare you so many family fotos. Molalla River State Park--north of Canby OR From Wilsonville take I-5 south, exit 282A onto OR-551, next Arndt Rd NE to S Knights Bridge Rd, and north on N Holly St. The main entrance is at River Park Place, near the intersection of NE 37th Ave and N Holly St. (north of Canby OR) It seemed to make sense to detour just a bit on my way to Triskelee Farm to see this park. I forgot I had visited it previously when I went to the Renaissance Faire in Canby. But, I took a few more fotos and continued on my way. Canby Ferry crosses the Willamette River north of Canby, next to Molalla River State Park I was particularly happy for the opportunity to take the Canby Ferry, and thankfully I happened to have some cash (which is not usual for me). I wanted to take pics up and down river as we crossed, but both were pretty much blocked by machinery & people. Still, I took what I could. I never have yet got out to the interpretive sign on the south side. Triskelee Farm--29700 SW Mountain Rd; E of Wilsonville, south of West Linn, OR; just N of Canby Ferry Triskelee Farm is ever so close to the Canby Ferry. It has perhaps less infrastructure, but it's also much less expensive (or at least it was on Tulip Festival Day), and very cheerfully accommodating as possible. The field parking was pretty coarse pasture grass/ground, so they found me a paved place to park. Though I missed the 1pm tour, they let me just roam around. It's pretty much rough both in and out, and I was very glad for a motor. Outdoors, watch for poop (maybe tours in to see the animals would not be too tidy in a wheelchair). What huge hens they have!. And a big bunny, too. I upgraded my ostrich slider side to ostrich chili: the beans could have been a bit more tender, but the flavor was fine; the ostrich sliders were small but with the jelly, oh so fine! Delectable! In answer to my query, Triskelee Farm emailed “Yes, we are accessible. There are uneven surfaces and there will be mud and animal droppings but we’ve had walkers and wheelchairs in with the animals. Honestly I would recommend coming on a different weekend. With the news coverage we got today it will be a little crazy tomorrow and most of the tours are sold out.” Hebb Park & Oregon Equestrian Center (view of Mt Hood) When I saw the sign, and it was still early in the day, I took off down and around to check out Hebb Park. I didn’t get out to explore, as I wanted to get a picture or two in Oregon City on the way home. It’s really for more able-bodied folks anyway. The views of Mt Hood from Pete’s Mountain Road are so astouding, it’s no wonder wealthy people live along there. At the Equestrian Center I had the chance to get a fantastic foto of the mountain. ![]() Hebb County Park-- 500 SW Hebb Park Rd On the Willamette River, nearly opposite the Canby Ferry, but a bit tortuous to get there. North of Triskelee Farms take SW Hoffman Rd east. At the junction with SW Pete’s Mtn Rd, take a right onto SW Riverwood Dr, south to Riverlane Rd, then north on SW Hebb Park Rd til it winds around to the park https://www.clackamas.us/parks/hebb.html Willamette Park & Historic Willamette Main St (now in West Linn OR) It’s generally after I’ve been somewhere that I find out where I was, so I didn’t realize how close I was to Oregon City. Pete's Mtn Rd becomes Tualatin Ave, joins 12th St, meets Willamette Falls Dr in the section of West Linn that was Willamette. Willamette Park--1100 12th St, West Linn, OR 97068 Historic Willamette Main Street seems to have been incorporated by West Linn OR
Brochures & Travel Guides Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory 2022-2023 Travel Planner
Outdoor Recreation Estacada Lake: Timber Park, Milo McGgiver State Park Three Days of Perfect Pedaling Hiking Hidden Gems Mollala River Corridor Recreation Area: hiking, camping, fishing Midweek on the Mountain—Midwinter Months on Mt Hood Timberline, Mt Hood Skibowl, Mt Hood Outfitters Main Streets Make the Willamette River Home Milwukie, Lake Oswego, West Linn, Oregon City Farms & Wineries Oregon Farm Loops—Farmlandia, South Clackamas Four Seasons of Farms & Wineries (great pic of Mt Hood, Liepold Farm 2022 Fall Festival, Boring OR Wine Trail, Tap Trail Arts & Heritage Performing Arts, Heritage Trail, Bigfoot Country\ Communities & Events Milwaukie & Gladstone Happy Valley & Clackamas Lake Oswego West Linn Oregon City Canby (what about Aurora? I want to see more of these two) Wilsonville Molalla Estacada (must return, prob also Detroit Lake) Sandy & Boring Villages of Mt Hood: Gov Camp—Event Highlights (monthly timeline, Lodging, a Dog’s Guide to…, Waterfront Stays, Adventure Base Camps ![]() Note: the following pics are from 2017-2024, mostly 2022. The updates for 2023 and 2024 are at bottom. Chinese New Year 2022, began Feb 1 & ended Feb 15 (Lantern Festival) Lunar New Year Celebrations in Portland Portland Area Events to celebrate Chinese New Year 2022 the Year of the Tiger My tiger travels through a few years. Chinese New Year Celebration at Washington Square Mall, Portland OR--5 Feb 2022 Washington Square Mall Din Tai Fung—popular Taiwanese Restaurant (reservations advisable) Chinese New Year at Vancouver Mall (USA)--2017 had to be postponed 'til March (due to weather) We ate at Panda Express in Cascade Station, Portland OR, for Chinese New Year, 1 Feb 2022, but Vancouver Mall (WA) also has a Panda Express, as does just about every state in the US. Panda Express locations: 82nd Ave & the Jade District, Portland OR Since I had already been to Portland's Chinatown for a previous New Year, and had just discovered all the Chinese (& other Asian) venues along 82nd Ave, I wanted to explore some more there for Chinese New Year 2022. Eastport Plaza is along that way, Portland Community College SE campus is close, on Division St, and so is Portland Nursery, a bit east. More about the Jade District: Hong Phat Food Center, 101 SE 82nd Ave, Portland, OR 97216 Shun Fat Supermarket 5253 SE 82nd Ave, Portland (in Emmert Cali Saigon Mall) Yan Zi Lou restaurant, Jade District, 2788 SE 82nd Ave, Portland, OR 97266--next to Fubonn Shopping Center Chinatown, Seattle WA 2022 Lunar New Year celebrations were postponed 'til Apr 30, and I was fortunate to be able to go back to Seattle to see them, as well as more of the waterfront (more about that in a 2nd post about Seattle). The day began cool and wet (I had to use my umbrella and set out seeking something like a lap quilt for my legs), but the weather took an auspicious turn, the sun came out, and I even had to dig my sun lotion out of my all purpose purse. I had time to do a little exploring of the vicinity, and was very glad to have an electric wheelchair to give me more mileage than I could have managed manually. For more photos of Seattle Chinatown scroll down at See alsoLunar New Year, Seattle WA Hing Hay Park, 423 Maynard Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104 Ho Ho Seafood Restaurant, 653 S Weller St, Seattle, WA 98104 Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience, 719 S King St, Seattle, WA 98104 The Purple Dot Cafe, 515 Maynard Ave S, Seattle WA My own little Lantern Festival for the end of Chinese New Year 2022 Traditional Chinese Music
Shen Yun Portland OR--March 2022 Keller Auditorium I have wanted to go see Shen Yun for years, and over 2 years ago I bought tickets. But the show was postponed twice due to COVID restrictions ☹. At last the day arrived, fortune shined upon me so that the predicted rain cleared and in the end it was a very pretty day. I tried to leave enough time for traffic and to find parking, but some streets were blocked with barricades and the MAX (transit train) blocked one intersection as the time was ticking away. I had checked for some nearby parking, and as it turned out, I got a place in the closest parking garage: Auditorium Park, diagonally across from Keller Auditorium. Naturally, after the show I wanted to have a Chinese dinner, and within a couple blocks I had found August Moon Restaurant. I imagine the Shen Yun performances have brought them good fortune, too. Because next day was 1st Day of Spring, I just had to get Asparagus & (spring) Chicken. I ordered Spring Lamb Szechuan Style to take for the day following. The meats were tender, the vegetables tender-crisp. Loved the chicken dish, the other was a bit (soy) saucy for my taste. Lan Su Chinese Garden, Portland OR We went to see Lan Su Chinese Garden fall of 2019, I returned to gather more about Chinatown there, and we went to the Chinese New Year celebration in 2020. But I didn't use nearly as many photos as I do now, so I'm including some more here. For more info about Portland's Chinatown, see my updated Portland Art Museum--Chinese artifact exhibits Late February 2022 we went to see various exhibits at the Portland Art Museum, among which was a limited collection of ancient Asian art. We found a handicapped parking space open on the street right in front of the museum. Across the way is the Oregon Historical Society Museum, which I have yet to find opportunity to visit. They do offer some online exhibits as well as their print publications. Chinese perspectives from the Oregon Historical Society current exhibits at the OHS Museum https://www.ohs.org/museum/exhibits/index.cfm Chinese in Lewiston ID In early March 2022 I traveled to Lewiston ID in pursuit of Sacajawea's Trail, and unexpectedly, happily happened on the Chinese exhibits at the Center for Arts and History in downtown Lewiston. At the same time they were hosting contemporary artists celebrating women, and one of them was of Chinese heritage. I loved these exhibits, was inspired to try one of the Chinese restaurants in Lewiston, the Mandarin Pine. Loved that experience as well.
Memorials of Chinese Americans in Tacoma WA I saw an exhibit or two about Chinese American experiences at the Washington State History Museum, but moreso at the Chinese Reconciliation Park on Ruston Way. Washington History Museum, 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma WA Chinese Reconciliation Park, 1741 N. Schuster Parkway, Tacoma WA 98403 Chinese New Year Jan 22, 2023--the Year of the Rabbit Related to Chinese culture, in 2023 I published a post “Buddha: birth, life, enlightenment, & Cultural Connections”
Chinese New Year Jan 10, 2024--the Year of the Dragon Of course Lunar New Year is not only celebrated in China, but in most Asian countries, as well as worldwide. “15+ Traditional & Cultural Chinese New Year Symbols to Know” (“Chinese New Year Symbols: The Vibrant Tapestry of Tradition and Culture”) Includes a chart of the Chinese Zodiac for 1900-2019 (scroll nearly to the end)Dragon folklore Dragons feature in ancient and medieval tales, but they are just as popular today—witness “Pete’s Dragon”, “Puff the Magic Dragon”, "Dragon Tales", “How to Train Your Dragon” films, programs, and songs . . . P.F. Chang's--7463 SW Bridgeport Rd, Tigard, OR 97224 (Bridgeport Village)
I was attracted to this restaurant in Boise ID, so when I saw it here in the Portland OR area, I took the opportunity to delight my senses. Then I was even more delighted to discover the Dragon mural that was so appropriate for the Year of the Dragon (of course, the Year of the Horse would also be fitting). The food was good, the staff very friendly and attentive (at least before the dinner crowds arrived, I can't say further), and the decor very pleasant. Downtown Oregon City along and off Main Street Historic downtown is walkable, shoppable, and has a nice variety of restaurants from different ethnic food traditions. I didn't take pics of all of them, but a few. More about Dr Barclay along with McLoughlin House below. I was anxious to wheel along the Willamette River at least between downtown and the Willamette Falls Scenic Viewpoint, so I came back to the Municipal Elevator after that. Joseph L. Meek--mountainman, statesman, lawman mural: 10 McLoughlin Blvd aka Hwy 99E, Oregon City, OR (Oregon City Elks Lodge bldg). Plaque reads, "Joseph L. Meek--born 1810 - died 1875. Born in Washington co. VA, Meek leaves home at age 18, arriving in St. Louis in the fall of 1828. Meek signs on as a trapper with the Rocky Mtn Fur Co, remaining in the Rockies until 1839. 1839-1842: Meek travels to the Willamette Valley and eventually starts farming on the 'Tualatin Plains'. 1843: early settlers recognize the need to form a governing body in the Oregon Country. They convene at Champoeg in May 1843. Meek has a pivotal role in establishing an American type of provisional government. Meek appointed sheriff of the Oregon Country. 1848: Meek accepts the duty of messenger to Congress. He arrives in Washington D.C. on May 28, 1848 with dispatches concerning conditions in Oregon. Meek is hosted by his cousin President James Polk. Oregon is admitted as a territory and Joe Meek is commissioned the first U.S. Marshall in the Territory." Hope I got the dates, right, they were hard to read from my photo. It's frustrating when signs & such interfere with murals and other sights of interest. Mt Hood overlooking Oregon City--picture taken from Willamette Falls Drive, Oregon City OR Willamette Falls Scenic Viewpoint--120 McLoughlin Blvd, Oregon City, OR 97045 I wheeled between downtown and the Willamette Falls Viewpoint in my electric chair. I could not have made it with my manual chair: it's pretty steep, quite a way, and I found it intimidating to wheel 3' or so from big trucks zooming past on the highway. I wouldn't recommend walking it with little ones. I was glad for the railing between me and the train that passed by probably 5' away on the other side. There's free parking at the Viewpoint, including a handicapped space without good markings when I was there.
Peter Skene Ogden Search for info on Peter Skene Ogden on the Fort Vancouver WA site Oregon City Municipal Elevator--6 Railroad Ave, Oregon City, OR 97045; Railroad Ave & 7th The historic and kinetic art, the views from the windows with the lines of the city (and beyond) etched into them, and access to the McLoughlin Promenade and the upper part of town makes this a not-to-be-missed experience. McLoughlin Promenade Leaving the Municipal Elevator to the right leads to the overview of Willamette Falls; to the left is McLoughlin House, City Hall, and so forth. McLoughlin House--713 Center St, Oregon City, OR 97045 Next to McLoughlin House is Barclay House. The days and hours they are open are very limited, but even when they are not open for tours there are still monuments to learn from. Upper part of town Some of the photos below were taken in June, some mid February. Museum of the Oregon Territory (MOOT)--211 Tumwater Dr, Oregon City, OR 97045 Clackamas County Historical Society Museum aka Museum of the Oregon Territory End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center--1726 Washington Street, Oregon City, OR 97045 For lots more photos, scroll down to the end of Traveling the Oregon Trail part 3 See also Traveling the OR Trail part 2, near the end And Fort Vancouver WA Clackamas County Heritage Pass and Our Cataclysmic Floodscape brochure
(Temporary Lake Allison made the Willamette Valley what it is) Our Cataclysmic Floodscape brochure
![]() Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and Pearson Air Museum Photos taken over the years; those from June 2022 and July 2023 at bottom. More about Chief Factor John McLoughlin at
The Village for laborers, a couple cabins reconstructed at Fort Vancouver Officers Row update, 6-23-2022 We decided to explore Officers Row one day, and parked behind the O.O. Howard House as a sort of midpoint. There's a lovely park area there, a plaza with bistro tables & benches that would be so nice a place for lunch (a coffee/food truck was parked in the parking lot), and an heritage rose garden. We happened into the Director of Education, and what a happy happenstance! She was so helpful and informative. The O.O. Howard House is mostly offices, but she let us see the hallway, marked a map with what was open. We planned our loop route and set out. Evergreen Arboretum plaza & fountain, east entrance of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Evergreen Blvd & Reserve St; and bus stop Huge Anchor on display east of the Visitor Center Visitor Center in June of 2022 Displays & kid activities at the Visitor Center change from time to time. Parade Grounds, plus Cannons & Memorial (the latter north of O.O. Howard House). Update from 1 July 2023 Summerfest--coincided with Canada Day Since Ft Vancouver was essentially part of British Canada/North America at its inception, I thought this such an appropriate way to spend Canada Day. The Grant House--Officer's Row The Visitor Center--addendum A few more pics on the way down to the replica/reconstruction of Ft Vancouver Reconstructed HBC Fort Vancouver (Fort Vancouver National Historic Site)-1001 E 5th St, Vancouver WA 98661 On some days interesting & knowledgeable volunteers offer great insights into life in the past. Not every building is open every day, and the garden (in particular) changes through the seasons, so it's worth revisiting. Summerfest 1 July 2023--Canada Day
I loved the entertainment; lots of family & kid/lawn games & activities, food and vendor booths . . . In the beginning of Oct 2023 I was delighted for the chance to return to the Redwoods and to see even more of the combination of state and national parks, all the way south to Eureka. Here's a link to my first visit in 2020. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park—9 mi east of Crescent City CA on Hwy 199 If you take Hwy 197 to or from the north, off Hwy 101, along the Smith River, you’ll pass Ruby Van Deventer County Park (I didn't have time or opportunity to stop this trip). Redwood National and State Parks Visitor Guide--one of the guides I saved from 2020 to outline my hoped for return to the Redwoods, and then forgot to take it in 2023. Naturally I would expect to find similar info published for any year. Smith River CA In Oct 2023 we stayed at The Pelican Cottage--17265 US Hwy 101, Smith River CA 95567, right by the State Ag Inspection Station (very near the CA/OR state line). It was a quiet pleasant place, inclusive of a game room and small yard with BBQing amenities. We were pretty fortunate with good weather for October (foggy morns, but we didn't get rained on). There were plenty of dishes and linens, and quite nice kitchen/laundry facilities. The parking area was nicely paved and reasonably roomy. There was a place to plug in an RV, but we were charged extra for that. I think it advertised accommodations for 10 or 12, but if you have 5-6 couples, privacy might be an issue for a couple or two. It also advertised pet friendly, but pets were not to be allowed upstairs. The stairs were steep and narrow, but there was a gate at the bottom of them. From the photos sent I thought it would work for a person in a wheelchair, but the master room bed was terrifically tall, and none of the bathrooms were wheelchair friendly (I barely managed toilet, not so with showers--I ended taking "spit baths" with hygiene wipes, do-able for a couple nights). The main floor had a master and a bedroom with bunks. Couches in the living room could sleep a couple people if needed. It did have a full and a 3/4 bath on the main level (no steps), and a half or three-quarter bath upstairs. The living room and master bedroom had nice big screen TVs, game room as well, not sure about the other rooms. I believe they had Wifi and cable TV. California Agricultural Inspection Station--17200 US-101, Smith River, CA 95567
Pelican State Beach--17200 US-101, Smith River, CA 95567 (close to Pelican Cottage above) Picnic tables in view of the ocean, but of course the beach itself is not wheelchair accessible. Picnic areas had scattered trash when I saw them: a good service opportunity--bring gloves and garbage bag. Marine Protected Areas brochure pictured below Don’t Move a Mussel brochure pictured below White Rock Resort Ocean Rentals--16800 US-101, Smith River, CA 95567 (right by Pelican State Beach) Apparently you can buy a cabin, too. Restaurant next to the lodgings looked closed for an extended period. Sea Escape Oceanfront Lodging--15370 US-101, Smith River, CA 95567 (not pictured below, see their site) Clifford Kamph Memorial Park--15100 US-101, Smith River, CA 95567 (not far south of the CA/OR border) Ocean Views RV Park--14015 US-101, Smith River, CA 9556 (not pictured below) Lucky 7 Casino & Hotel, gas & convenience store, and Howonquet/Tolowa Dee-Ni' Nation Lucky 7 Casino & Hotel, dining, fuel mart Howonquet/Tolowa Dee-Ni' Nation
Xaa-wan'-k'wvt (Howonquet) Village & Resort--12420 Hwy 101 N Smith River, CA 95567 The boat by the highway used to be a museum & gift shop, formerly a private yacht.
Smith River CA (town) While all the addresses from the CA/OR border down to where US Hwy 101 crosses the Smith River seem to be called "Smith River CA", the actual little town itself is considerably more circumspect. Below are photos of the town, and a few extra links for places I didn't get to explore. Dollar General--100 Timber Blvd, Smith River, CA 95567; see it from US Hwy 101 Hastings Bulb Growers--437 Borough Ln, Smith River, CA 95567, take Borough Ln off US Hwy 101 Del Norte County Boat Ramp--S Fred D Haight Dr, Smith River, CA 95567; west of Hwy 101 on the Smith River, Google maps isn't showing any street sign of where to turn to the ramp from Fred D Haight Dr, it looks like it's behind private property. Ulrich lane is too far. (Alternatively, Fred D Haight Dr parallels US Hwy 101 south from the town of Smith River). Crescent City CA Florence Keller Regional (County) Park & Campground--3400 Cunningham Ln, Crescent City, CA 95531 West of US Hwy 101 near its intersection with Hwy 199, is Florence Keller Regional (County) Park & Campground, off Elk Valley Cross Road. It's a beautiful place to spend a day or a weekend, offering a group picnic shelter with grills, playground, camping, trails (one accessible), the restroom looks to have flushing toilets. Most of this park is forested, though there's a clearing with rentable group space and amenities. Tolowa Dunes State Park—Kellogg Rd, Crescent City CA, 2 mi north of Crescent City (not pictured below) Tolowa Dunes offers guided horseback riding & facilities. It doesn't appear to have any accessible amenities. Google maps looks like you can get there from Hwy 101 by taking Morehead Rd west off Lake Earl Dr out of Fort Dick (make the turn south of Redwood Elementary School & Earl Grange Hall, but north of Pelican Bay State Prison) . At the west end of Morehead Rd go north on Lower Lake Rd, then west on Kellogg Rd.
Crescent City CA (town) I visited Crescent City in 2020. Here's a link to the places I saw and reviewed then: Below are a few photos I took on my way through town early Oct 2023 Perhaps less picturesque, but useful for travelers . . . these are along US Hwy 101, which is southbound on 'L' St, and northbound on 'M' St. Del Norte County Fairgrounds--421 US-101, Crescent City, CA 95531
![]() Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park—7 mi south of Crescent City, campground 2 mi east of Hwy 101
Wilson Creek Beach pull-out, just south of DeMartin Beach Picnic Area & just north of Lagoon Creek Picnic Area The website warns this is not a safe place to swim. Lagoon Creek Picnic Area--.7mi south of De Martin Beach Picnic Area, Hwy 101 This area was closed early Oct 2023, for my review & photos from 2020, scroll down at the first link below. Klamath CA Trees of Mystery--15500 US-101, Klamath, CA 95548 (actually about 5 mi north of Klamath CA) Motel Trees--15495 US-101, Klamath, CA 95548 Forest Café--15499 US-101, Klamath, CA 95548 Hidden Beach Trail—just north of Motel Trees, Hwy 101, Klamath CA, not well marked at trailhead Anglers Cove Campground--300 Requa Rd, Klamath, CA 95548; also, a boat ramp just west (not pictured here) Klamath River Overlook—further west (northwest) on Requa Rd (not pictured here, see link below) “Requa Road [one of the scenic drives recommended by the National Park Service] Paved; Motorhomes/RVs and trailers not advised-road very steep and narrow. Distance & Duration: ~2¼ miles, one way (to Klamath River Overlook); 15 minutes. Directions: Signed exits off of U.S. 101 located ~2¼ miles north of Klamath, Calif. or ~18½ miles south of Crescent City, Calif. Description: Pass historic Requa, Calif. en route to the Klamath River Overlook perched 650 feet above the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy breathtaking views, whale watching, and bird viewing at the mouth of the Klamath River, where freshwater merges with seawater after a journey of over 250 miles that begins high in the snow-laden Cascade Mountains of Southern Oregon.” See also: In 2020 I provided info & photos of Klamath CA, a modern Native American village with tourist facilities. Scroll down at: A little south of the village of Klamath CA, and not far off US Hwy 101, is the Klamath Tour Thru Tree tourist attraction--430 Hwy 169, Klamath, CA 95548 (exit 769 off Hwy 101 just north of the Klamath River). West of Hwy 101 (on Hwy 169) is Klamath's Camper Corral, east of Hwy 101 is the Log Cabin Diner, as well as the Tour Thru Tree.
The Klamath River The Coastal Drive Another of the scenic drives recommended by the National Park Service is the Coastal Drive. Take Klamath Beach Rd west (exit 768 off US Hwy 101, south of Klamath CA and the Klamath River). Coastal Drive is a loop off Klamath Beach Rd; RVs & trailers prohibited. I took pics of two campgrounds along the way to Coastal Drive, both on the Klamath River: Klamath River RV Park and Kamp Klamath RV Park. Depending on the weather, one may wish a more sunny or a more shady place. Klamath River RV Park--700 Klamath Beach Rd, Klamath, CA 95548 (sunny) Kamp Klamath RV Park--1661 Klamath Beach Rd, Klamath, CA 95548 (shady) Newton B Drury Scenic Parkway—exit 765 and 753 off US Hwy 101, the Redwood Hwy One of the highly recommended scenic drives, has many trails, Big Tree Wayside has an accessible one. Big Tree Wayside really worth taking in Elk Prairie Campground/Prairie Creek Visitor Center—25 mi south of Crescent City, 6.5 mi north of Orick CA; US Hwy 101 (aka Redwood Hwy CA), has several trails. Prairie Creek Visitor Center—25 mi south of Crescent City, 6.5 mi north of Orick CA; US Hwy 101/Redwood Hwy There's a ramp up to the door, but it might need some TLC. A friendly, helpful ranger offered to walk a ways along the trail when I expressed my concern about taking it solo across a bridge and not knowing how steep and narrow it might be for a person in a wheelchair. The other staff kindly covered for him. Choices of trails near the Prairie Creek Visitor Center—25 mi south of Crescent City, 6.5 mi north of Orick CA; US Hwy 101/Redwood Hwy 1.2 mi accessible section Prairie Creek Trail at the Prairie Creek Visitor Center, Hwy 101, 6.5 mi N of Orick CA On my 2020 trip I was cautious about taking this trail on my own in a wheelchair (which was a manual at the time), so I was very glad to be able to venture upon it in 2023, and it was a nice day for it. The ranger walked with me over the bridge to make sure I would be ok. The bridge was rough, and I would have liked a little more between me and the stream below on either side to my right and left, but I was able to do it, and what a great trail through the trees! Elk Meadow Picnic Area/Trillium Falls Trail--258 Davidson Rd, Orick, CA 95555 (a short distance west off US Hwy 101, maybe 3 mi north of Orick). The trail to the Falls is not accessible. Prairie Creek Fish Hatchery—historical landmark, off Hwy 101 a bit north of Elk Meadows (not pictured here) Heart of the Redwoods Cottages & RV--124244, US-101, Orick, CA 95555 Elk Meadow Cabins--7 Valley Green Camp Rd, Orick, CA 95555 Humboldt County
California Redwood Coast Map & Guide. This brochure covers Humboldt county, with highlights of several towns. I was most focused on Eureka, not to say there's nothing else worth exploring/visiting. Photos below from 2 different years' editions.
Orick CA--50 mi north of Eureka CA, US Hwy 101 Redwood National & State Parks South Operations Center--121200 US-101, Orick, CA 95555 Orick Market--121175 US-101, Orick, CA 95555 US Post Office--121147 US-101, Orick, CA 95555 La Hacienda restaurant--121137 US Hwy 101, Orick CA Roosevelt Base Camp motel--121130 US-101, Orick, CA 95555, unobtrusively located on the west side of the Hwy EdeBee’s Snack Shack--12079 Redwood Hwy, Orick, CA 95555 (much cuter than photo below shows, due to sun) The Redwood Gift Shop/California Native Woods--120069 US-101, Orick, CA 95555 Shoreline Fuel Mart--120025 US-101, Orick, CA 95555; convenience store, Aug 2023 notes no longer sells gas Redwood Creek Cottage--121233 US-101, Orick, CA 95555
Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center—turn west off US Hwy 101 at the sign, a mi south of Orick CA (exhibits for the Redwoods parks & seashores) Redwood Creek Beach County Park—US Hwy 101 where you turn for the Kuchel Visitor Center Orick Beach front, Historical landmark—south of Redwood Creek Picnic Area, US Hwy 101 (not pictured here) Ocean by the road, beach pavilion—south of Orick Beach front, US Hwy 101 (not pictured here) Redwood Creek Beach County Park photos Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center exterior The parking lot is flat and has accessible parking spaces. Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center interior. Stone Creek Visitor Center--15336 US Hwy 101 Elk Country RV Resort & Campground—US Hwy 101 between Stone Creek Visitor Center & the road to Dry Lagoon, Humboldt Lagoons State Park Humboldt Lagoons State Park—US Hwy 101, 55 mi south of Crescent City, 40 mi north of Eureka Take McDonald Creek Rd west off Hwy 101, then northwest on Park Rd Harry A Merlo State Rec Area/Big Lagoon County Park—Big Lagoon Rd off Hwy 101, 7 mi north of Trinidad CA (I didn't see in person)
Sue-Meg State Park (formerly Patrick's Point State Park)--4150 Patrick's Point Dr, 5.3 mi to Trinidad, CA--half a mile from US Hwy 101; I didn't want to pay $8 just to drive around taking pictures in the park. Trinidad CA (I didn't visit) From Google Maps: College Cove Falls, Trinidad State Beach, Trinidad Museum CalPoly Humboldt Marine Lab, Trinidad Head Lighthouse, Old Home Beach . . .
Bus system Trinidad south to Eureka, Fortuna & Scotia Vista Point--near California Redwood Coast-Humboldt Co Airport, north end of McKinleyville CA McKinleyville CA—5.6 mi north of Arcata CA (I didn't visit) California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport--3561 Boeing Ave, McKinleyville, CA 95519 Cab Louie—Mckinleyville, Arcata, Blue Lake, Eureka, Manila, Samoa, Trinidad fares
Arcata CA--7.6 mi north of Eureka CA (I didn't visit) Mad River County Park—1 Mad River Rd, Arcata CA 95521 (5 mi northwest of Arcata)
Ma-le'l Dunes, North—off Hwy 255 north of Manila CA Hwy 255 loops west from Arcata down to Eureka, through Manila (note Manila Community Park on Arcata Bay) & almost to Samoa. Just north of Samoa continue south on New Navy Base Rd to Samoa Beach, Fairhaven, Samoa Boat Ramp, Humboldt Bay US Coast Guard Station, and Samoa Dunes Rec Area (thence Lincoln Rd to Samoa Dunes Beach view point, walk out to North Jetty)--Unfortunately, I didn't have a chance to visit any of these. Manila Dunes—off Hwy 255 west from Arcata Humboldt Coastal Nature Center—220 Stamp Lane, Manila CA The Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum--77 Cookhouse Rd, Samoa, CA 95564 Timber Heritage RR museum--930 Vance Ave, Samoa, CA 95564 By Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum, and not far from USS Milwaukee Memorial and beaches Eureka CA
Turn north on ‘X’ street to see Blue Ox Millworks and Historic Village (I would love to have visited if I'd had a couple days instead of half a day in town). Clarion Hotel is at 4th & ‘X’ St, Red Lion Hotel is at 4th & ‘V’ St, and across from it is The SeaDrift Inn at 2014 4th St. Of course, there are are place to eat and get gas all along the way. 'R' St to the North off Hwy 101 is Hwy 255 to Samoa etc. (See above), and to the south it becomes Myrtle Ave south of 5th St (aka Hwy 101 eastbound), which you can take to Cooper Gulch Park & Recreation Center (turn at Myrtle Ave & 8th St). Cooper Gulch Park has baseball and a skate park. Cooper Gulch Rec Center--1720 10th St, Eureka, CA 95501 At 4th & 'Q' St is tiny Kamisu Park, named for Eureka’s sister city, with just a sign advertising Old Town downtown 9 blocks ahead. You can take 'O' St north off Hwy 101 to get to Humboldt County Library (1313 3rd St). The streets in this area are a bit tangled, but it’s worth going west on either 3rd or 4th St and north on 'M' St to drive or walk past the historic (but private) Ingomar Club, where 2nd St Ts into 'M'. Take 2nd St west to 'L' St, then north to Waterfront Dr. East of there on Waterfront Dr is Halvorsen Park. To the west is Adorni Community Center and Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center, and beyond that Waterfront Dr becomes 1st St.
Due to constraints of time and conditions, I decided to pretty much tour the town via my vehicle, street by street with some particular places added. Since some streets are one way, and/or busy, it was a challenge to get good photos, especially without braving the spotty wet weather. Thankfully it didn't start pouring until after I started north again, and then the rain stopped maybe half an hour or so up the road. 'C' & 'D' streets, Eureka CA--traveling south I love historic architecture, and Eureka is full of it. I've included some structures that caught my attention as I drove around. The historic landmark William S. Clark House at 1406 C St was built in 1888 and is listed on the National Register. Under the sobriquet Abigail's Elegant Victorian Mansion Historic Inn, you can arrange for an “opulent” stay in this hallmark home. I saw it on Google Maps, but not in person.
I was there on Columbus Day and thought to eat Italian, but aside from the ubiquitous pizza offerings, none of the Italian places were open until evening. Since I had to be back in Bandon OR that night, I just bought ingredients for Alfredo Shrimp with shirataki noodles & spaghetti squash (which we made and enjoyed greatly). 'E' Street--traveling north from Grant St (about 10th) to 2nd St The historical marker #477 at Opera Alley & 'E' St says, "Eureka was founded as a town in 1850 and incorporated as a city in 1874. Located on the remote northwestern coast of California, Eureka was the region's major port of entry by water in the 19th century before the construction of good access by land, and rose to historical prominence as the major social, political, and economic center of the region. 'Eureka' is a Greek expression and a popular mining term meaning 'I have found it.'" 'F' street--traveling south from 1st to 12th St: feasts for the eyes and ears. Hammond Park--takes up the block bounded by 'E' & 'F' streets, and 14th-15th streets For amenities, check the parks & rec link at the beginning of the Eureka section of this post. 'G' street--traveling north; sights, sounds, & tastes, tantalizing in every sense. Redwood Discovery Museum--612 G St, Ste 102, Eureka, CA 95501 (I didn't get to) A children’s museum that looks so fun inside from their site. 'H' street (and one church on 'I' street)--traveling south; attractive public structures Sequoia Park Zoo--3414 W St, Eureka, CA 95503 (closed when I was there) Continuing south on ‘H’ street, you’ll pass or play at Carson Park (bounded by ‘H’ & ‘I’ streets, Buhne & Carson streets). From the map it looks like it has (reservable) baseball fields, soccer, basketball, playground, a (reservable) group picnic area, and restrooms. I didn't see it in person. From ‘H’ St turn east on Harris St (a one-way street, eastbound). The Boys’ and Girls’ Club is between ‘J’ and ‘K’ streets. At ‘W’ St turn south again to get to the Zoo, which is inside Sequoia Park, and has a number of amenities, including the much touted Redwood Sky Walk. It looks like you can drive through Sequoia Park (not the zoo) on Milo Lane, between ‘W’ St and Glatt & ‘T’ streets.
Eureka Mall & Bayshore Mall (I didn't have time to explore) If you haven’t got mauled at the zoo, you can go to a Mall or two from there thus: from the Zoo, return to Harris St (by going north on ‘W’ St) and drive west, then when Harris becomes a one-way eastbound at ‘I’ St, go north to Henderson St and turn west again. Just north of Henderson between California & Union streets, Pine & Summer streets are interrupted by Da' Yas Park (official address 2605 Pine St, Eureka, CA 95501). Eureka Mall is between Henderson St (westbound one way) and Harris St (eastbound one way), Spring St on the east, Central Ave on the west. I count 5 bus stops around the perimeter of Eureka Mall. Continue on Henderson down the hill to Broadway St and turn south to reach Bayshore Mall. West of downtown Eureka US Hwy 101, aka Redwood Hwy, runs roughly north & south. Along this part it is also called Broadway St, at least south of 15th St. This is a major shopping area, including Bayshore Mall. Da’Yas Park-- 2605 Pine St, Eureka, CA 95501 (I didn't get pics) Eureka Mall-- 800 W Harris St, Eureka, CA 95501 (Didn't get pictures as I passed) Bayshore Mall—3300 Broadway St, Eureka, CA 95501 (Only got a few photos as I passed through the area) Ft Humboldt State Historic Park--3431 Fort Ave, Eureka, CA, park hours 8am-5pm South of Bayshore Mall (Broadway St) is Highland Ave; from there go east a block to Fort Ave then north to the Fort. Not far east from Ft Humboldt, on Highland Ave is Highland Park (Highland Ave & Glen St), which offers tennis, basketball, baseball, and a playground.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites--815 W Wabash Ave, Eureka, CA 95501 A very accommodating staff helped me with my luggage as well as making sure the room would work for me. I always check to see that the bathroom doesn't have issues for me, as soon as I check in. The towels were nicely reachable from my wheelchair, but as is often the case, I had to have the hand-held shower adjusted to within reach, and the shampoos and such put within reach in the shower. Fortuna CA--abt 20 min south of Eureka on US Hwy101/Redwood Hwy Further south--Ft Bragg & Sonoma county CA
Fort Bragg is on the coast, 2.5 hours south of Fortuna CA, so there's a lot to see between the two. It's almost directly west of Reno NV (Lake Tahoe is nearby, on the CA/NV border), 285 mi/5.5 hours by car on CA Hwy 20. It's almost 4.5 hours by car north of San Francisco. |
Wheelchair WomanI've been in a wheelchair for 30+ years. It poses some challenges for traveling. Maybe others can benefit from my experiences. Archives
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