The basic outline of this trip:
On the way to Port Townsend Port Townsend is about 4 hours north of Portland OR. Take I-5 north, and either 1) continue north on Hwy 101 from Tumwater/Olympia, driving along the Hood Canal, or 2) stay on I-5, take Hwy 16 to the Tacoma Narrows bridge/Gig Harbor, then Hwy 3 past Bremerton, and Hwy 104 across the Hood Canal Bridge. Not far beyond that is the intersection with Hwy 19, heading north toward Port Townsend (and meets with Hwy 20 into town--less direct is to stay on Hwy 104 'til it intersects with Hwy 20, and take that up to Port Townsend). Both options take about 4 hours, and the first may seem easier, but I prefer not to go north along the Hood Canal, as it is winding, fairly narrow, and the canal is on the downside, right of the vehicle. The 2nd option seems less direct, but there are signs along the way, so it's not as confusing as it may seem. Yet driving 101 south along the Hood Canal is pretty, and the upside is on the right. The Olympics from Hood Canal Bridge, Hwy 104 I enjoy crossing over the Hood Canal Bridge. The views are marvelous . . . the water, the mountains . . . It's not a great chance to take photos while you are on the bridge (best views) if you are driving on your own. There's no stopping on the bridge. Hood Canal Floating Bridge Viewpoint--just west of the Hood Canal Bridge; the Olympics are out of view Photos from late Aug 2021. If traveling west on Hwy 104, this pull-out is on the left (across traffic), and returning to the Hwy is also difficult--crossing traffic to continue west. Shine Tidelands State Park--west side of Hood Canal Bridge, Hwy 104 "This little day-use park offers fishing and crabbing, and its shoreline is popular with kayakers and beach walkers. A small wetland on the property offers excellent birding. Low tide brings out oysters and clams, which makes the park popular with shellfish harvesters." Shellfish season was closed when I was there Aug 2022. 4 unsheltered picnic tables, no fires allowed. Olympic Peninsula Gateway Visitors Center--93 Beaver Valley Rd (Hwy 19), Port Ludlow, WA 98365 (near the intersection of Hwy 104 and Hwy 19) There's an interesting exterior exhibit, but from the outside this little center may not seem like much. Don't be fooled . . . it may be small, but it has a lot of valuable information and some interesting displays for the area (in fact, the whole peninsula), and a friendly and helpful staff. Several porta potties, as well as info available on the outside. Most of the parking is gravel. The small paved path next to the handicapped parking was a bit of a struggle for me in a wheelchair--not much room to maneuver to get off/on my van ramp.
Port Ludlow WA--off Hwy 19 on Oak Bay Road (with a bit about nearby Port Hadlock & Irondale)
From Oak Bay Rd past the bay, take Swansonville Rd on the left, then right on Pioneer Dr. Port Hadlock, Irondale--Oak Bay Rd continues up from Port Ludlow to Port Hadlock, but so does Hwy 19
Chimacum WA, including Chimacum Park and HJ Carroll Park About 10-12 min north of Port Ludlow, on Washington state Hwy 19, is the crossroad village of Chimacum WA. Hwy 19 is called Rhody Drive in Chimacum. Chimacum Park is nearly across from the old Grange building, and HJ Carroll Park is not far north of there off Hwy 19.
Anderson Lake State Park--1061 Anderson Lake Rd, Chimacum, WA 98325 Just north of the entrance to HJ Carroll Park is Anderson Lake Rd. Take this road west for a bit and make a right turn (north) to reach the lake. Anderson Lake Road connects Hwy 19 with Hwy 20. Port Townsend WA
Port Townsend Aero Museum—105 Airport Rd, Port Townsend WA Check the days & hours before you go. Jefferson County International Airport--191 Airport Rd, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Spruce Goose Café offers eats at the airport. Fort Townsend Historical State Park--1370 Old Fort Townsend Road, Port Townsend, WA 98368 There's not much left of the Fort, and what remnants there are may not be wheelchair accessible. Because of the fee and the less than positive chances I would be able to see anything, I didn't go further. Port Townsend Visitor Center--2409 Jefferson St. Suite B, Port Townsend, WA 98368 A good place to start exploring Port Townsend, just off E Sims Way (Hwy 20) at Jefferson. Port of Port Townsend--2790 Washington Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Interesting place to see boats being worked on . . . though hard to photo. Washington St near the Port of Port Townsend Aladdin Inn--2333 Washington St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Handy location near the Port of Port Townsend, restaurants close by. I was able to wheel downtown and back in my electric chair. Nice view out my room window. Handicapped parking slim. Steep ramp up to the office from the parking. Park early to get a place. Low price for the place, unexceptional lodging.
Wheeling toward Downtown along Washington St East Sims (Hwy 20) intersects with Washington Street, creating a little triangle that has been developed into Gateway Park. Washington St heads straight up the hill from there, where in a block or two you can see the beautiful historic architectural landmark Jefferson County Courthouse, and Courthouse Park. Just before the intersection of Washington with Sims, a turn to the right onto Water Street leads to a nice view of the Olympic Mtns as it bends before connecting with Sims. Sims becomes Water Street, which is now Hwy 20 at least to the Ferry terminal. Washington & Water streets are parallel, a block distant, through town. I rolled along Water St, because it's flat, and later drove Washington up to see the courthouse and park there (see below). Port Townsend Inn--2020 Washington St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, just as Washington St heads up hill. Jefferson County Courthouse & park--1820 Jefferson Street, 2nd Floor, Port Townsend, WA 98368 (& furthermore) Naturally I was drawn up the hill (by car) to see the beautiful old county courthouse, and the park across the street. From the Courthouse on Jefferson, continue NE on Jefferson to Van Buren, go around the block (Van Buren-Washington-Harrison) to see the grand old US Post office. Then keep driving NE on Jefferson to Tyler. Park on the street if you can, to get out and walk to the Historic Fire Bell Tower (319 Tyler St, Port Townsend, WA 98368). It looks like--from Google Maps--it's a stupendous view of Port Townsend Bay (and Indian-Marrowstone Island, maybe Whidbey Island). Just another block NE on Jefferson is the Rothschild House State Park Heritage Site (418 Taylor St, Port Townsend, WA 98368). Parking is in back, off Taylor, and maybe there's a handicapped entrance? If you want to see more of the astounding views of Port Townsend Bay, you can return to the Post Office and travel northeast on Washington, because the street parking is on the bluff side of the road.
Historic Fire Bell Tower--319 Tyler St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, great view of the Bay Rothschild House State Park Heritage Site-- 418 Taylor St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 (still the way it was 100+ years ago)
Wheeling downtown along Water St E Sims Way (Hwy 20) merges with Water St, which then becomes Hwy 20, at least until the ferry terminal. Water Street is the main route through downtown Port Townsend. It's a nice roll or stroll. The Tides Inn & Suites--1807 Water St #6909, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Bayview Restaurant--1539 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Port Townsend-Coupeville (Whidbey Island) Ferry--4375 Erin St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Quimper Mercantile--1121 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, in a shopping center next to the ferry Historic Downtown Port Townsend
Tyler St Plaza--199-1 Tyler St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 (Tyler & Water St) Hastings Building, Taylor & Water St
Adam St Park--817 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 The old W&K building and the Old Ferry Dock--Quincy St Elevated Ice Cream--627/631 Water St, Port Townsend, WA (back entrance on Waterfront Place off Quincy) Pope Marine Park across Water St from the Museum of Art & History Jefferson Museum of Art & History--540 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Port Townsend City Hall--250 Madison St #201, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Point Hudson area I drove to Point Hudson so I wouldn't run out of juice for my electric wheelchair just getting there. I made a loop from the public parking at Washington & Monroe to the NW Maritime Center, along Jackson St (Point Hudson Marina), literally up Jefferson St to Monroe again (from there I wheeled up Washington St a ways). The Swan Hotel--222 Monroe St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 NW Maritime Center--431 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Point Hudson Marina (Water St bends into Jackson St) Wooden Boats of Port Townsend--describes 9 wooden boats at Point Hudson, links to more info Point Hudson Marina & RV Park-- 103 Hudson Street, Port Townsend, WA Commander's Beach House--400 Hudson St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, Hudson St makes a loop (I didn't see) Port Townsend Skate Park--250 Monroe St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 (Monroe & Jefferson Streets) Washington St from Monroe to Taylor (and beyond by car or bike, if you can and like) I wheeled down Monroe a block from Jefferson to Washington, and rolled along Washington a bit. Just past Adams it becomes a hill, and I drove that part. As it reaches the top of the bluff, there's a spectacular view, but the parking is on the other side of the road (of course you can circle the block at the Post Office, to go the other direction for the sake of parking to take in the wonder of it all). If you continue on Washington, you'll pass the grand old Post Office, Courthouse Park, and then the hill down to E Sims St/Hwy 20. Before the descent there's a nice view of the Olympic Mountains in the distance. Jefferson County Memorial Athletic Field--550 Washington St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Bishop Victorian Hotel, 714 Washington St, Port Townsend WA The Fowler/Leader Bldg--on Adams St, built 1874, served several purposes, including a store, dance hall, theater, Masonic Lodge, courthouse, seaman's lodgings, cigar factory, and finally a newspaper residence: The Leader.
Chetzemoka Park--1000 Jackson St, Port Townsend, WA 98368 (Blaine & Jackson Streets) You can drive up the hill on Monroe to Blaine St, one block east is Jackson St. There's a handicapped parking space, but the path and water run-off facilitation were a bit difficult to manage with my van ramp and wheelchair. It's a lovely park with nice amenities and a view, though it is on a hill. Fort Worden--210 Battery Way, Port Townsend, WA 98368 (& food) (follow Jackson/"Q" St/Walnut streets to "W" St, or, Walker/Cherry/Ft Worden Way/Battery Way)
From Fort Worden, take Admiralty Ave west. Optionally, turn north at San Juan Ave which bends into 49th St--Landes St is off that . (San Juan Ave makes a "T" at 19th St, north of Kah Tai Lagoon, from there you can go east on Blaine, south on Kearney, east on Lawrence.) I came back from Fort Worden the way I went, but turned southwest on Lawrence St, and saw some of Uptown Port Townsend. The one place I took a photo was the park where the Farmers Market is held. Other places along and beyond Lawrence Street below.
Indian-Marrowstone Island, Norland, Mystery Bay State Park, & Fort Flagler Hwy 116 off Hwy 19 leads to Indian Island and points beyond. You'll pass Burgers Landing (see photo under Port Ludlow/Hadlock above), and at the point where you take Flagler Rd to the left, if you continued "straight", you'd be on Oak Bay Rd, which would take you down to Port Ludlow. On Flagler Rd (the new identity of Hwy 116) you'll soon cross the Portage Canal/Port Townsend Ship Canal, and immediately come to a park on the right known variously as Lloyd L Good Memorial Park, Portage Beach, and Oyster Shell Beach. It is part of Jefferson County's Indian Island Park. Indian Island (Jefferson) County Park
Norland General Store--7180 Flagler Rd, Marrowstone Island, WA 98358-9800 Mystery Bay State Park--just north of Norland General Store, Flagler Rd/Hwy 116 Fort Flagler Historical State Park--2 mi north of Mystery Bay State Park (20 mi/40 min from Port Townsend WA; take Hwy 116 off Hwy 19) There's more to explore than I saw at Fort Flagler State Park (though many of the batteries reached by trail, it looks like), and I got there just a bit too late for the museum or the battery tour, but I was entirely delighted to see not just the fort, but Mt Baker & Mt Rainier! Below is a link to the virtual tour of the museum. Fort Flagler Museum virtual tour Port Townsend Ferry to Coupeville, Whidbey Island 1301 Water St, Port Townsend WA--It's important to get a reservation. I had to go very early, but that was fortunate, as it gave me enough time to explore as I traveled up Whidbey Island. Whidbey Island The ferry has a lot of travel brochures, Whidbey Island among them. You'll need some time to peruse them ahead of making the most of visiting the Island. Island County parks (Whidbey & Camano islands) Fort Casey Historical State Park--1280 Engle Road, Coupeville, WA 98239 From the Port Townsend-Coupeville Ferry turn left/north. The campground is on the lowland on Admiralty Bay, next to the ferry terminal, but is entered from the hill part of the park. Coupeville WA area Both S Engle Rd and Fort Casey Rd lead north from Fort Casey to Coupeville WA. Fort Casey Rd makes a T with SE Terry Rd, which take west to S Engle Rd (S Engle Rd is the more direct route). S Engle Rd becomes Main St of Coupeville. There are various places of interest in the area which I wasn't able to visit. Off Fort Casey Rd, east on Patmore Rd are Patmore Pit park and Rhododendron Park (which can also be accessed off Hwy 20 east of Coupeville). Patmore Pit (Island County Park)-- 497 Patmore Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239 (take W Patmore Rd off Fort Casey Rd, south of Coupeville) Rhododendron Park--502 W Patmore Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239 (south from Hwy 20, 1.5 mi east of Coupeville, or north off Patmore Rd) Coupeville WA Coupeville is on the south shore of Penn Cove, the east side of an isthmus dividing Whidbey Island between Coupeville and Oak Harbor. Drive north through the modern town toward the historic town. Road lines a block south of Front St encourage turning west on NW Coveland just where Cook's Corner Park offers a place to picnic and a sign directs tourists to parking, museum, visitor info, rec hall, and restrooms. Two blocks west of Main on Coveland is NW Alexander St, where the rec hall stands. Just to the north of the rec hall is the Coupeville Chamber of Commerce. A bit futher north on the west is the Island County Museum, and next to that is a little picnic area on the Cove and the Wharf. Continuing west on Coveland is found Coupeville Town Park. East on Front St it turns into Gould St, and only a block on Gould, a turn east on NE 9th St, which will become Parker Rd is the way to Price Sculpture Forest at 678 Parker Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239. Parker Rd becomes Coupeville Rd. North of that is Long Point historic landmark--440 Marine Dr, Coupeville, WA 98239. Coupeville WA Island County Museum—908 NW Alexander St, Coupeville WA 98239 The Coupeville Inn—200 NW Coveland St, Coupeville WA 98239 Coupeville Town Park-- 901 Colburn St (off NW Coveland), Coupeville, Washington 98239 Libbey Beach Park (Island County) Northwest of Coupeville WA, take Libbey Rd straight west off Hwy 20. Don't be misled by the section of Fort Ebey Rd off Libbey Rd, it won't get you to Fort Ebey. Fort Ebey State Park--400 Hill Valley Dr, northwest of Coupeville, WA 98239 Take Libbey Rd off Hwy 20 northwest of Coupeville WA. Turn south on Hill Valley Dr to Valley Dr, thence to Fort Ebey Rd (not contiguous with the section near Libbey Beach Park). Joseph Whidbey State Park--1755 Crosby Rd, Oak Harbor, WA 98277 Looks like the kitchen shelter is down the bluff on the beach There's more than one way to get to Joseph Whidbey State Park, including places along the way: 1. From Libbey Rd off Hwy 20 northwest of Coupeville, turn north onto North West Beach Rd a. Hastie Lake County Park--2434 W Hastie Lake Rd, Oak Harbor, WA 98277 https://www.islandcountywa.gov/PublicWorks/Parks/Pages/hastie-lake.aspx b. West Beach County Park--2407 W Beach Rd, Oak Harbor, WA 98277 https://www.islandcountywa.gov/PublicWorks/Parks/Pages/west-beach-swantown.aspx c. Beach Access Parking--2699 W Beach Rd, Oak Harbor, WA 98277 d. W Beach Rd turns into Crosby Rd, turn north into Joseph Whidbey State Park 2. (most direct) SW Swantown Ave off Hwy 20 as it becomes W Pioneer Way west of downtown Oak Harbor turns into Swantown Rd, cross W Beach Rd/Crosby Rd into Joseph Whidbey State Park a. Whidbey Golf Club--2430 Fairway Ln, Oak Harbor, WA 98277 3. From SW Swantown Ave off Hwy 20, take SW Fort Nugent Ave a. Fort Nugent Park--2075 SW Fort Nugent Ave, Oak Harbor, WA 98277 (lots of great amenities) https://oakharbor.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Fort-Nugent-Park-1 b. W Beach Rd north, West Beach County Park, Beach Access Parking, east a bit, then north into Joseph Whidbey State Park 4. W Hastie Lake Rd off Hwy 20 to North West Beach Rd at Hastie Lake County Park a. West Beach County Park b. Beach Access Parking c. W Beach Rd/Crosby Rd, turn north into Joseph Whidbey State Park To Oak Harbor from Joseph Whidbey State Park A couple ways to Oak Harbor from Joseph Whidbey State Park, with places along the way
turn SE on SW Swantown Ave, and east on W Pioneer Way a. Spring Tree Park, 190 SW Heller St, Oak Harbor, WA 98277--playground b. Kimball Park, 580 SW Heller St, Oak Harbor, WA 98277--playground c. Ruth Cohen Park, 1678 SW 8th Ave, Oak Harbor, WA 98277--abt 3+ blocks west of Heller, on 8th d. Lueck Park, 1270 SW Barrington Dr, Oak Harbor, WA 98277--playground, 1.5 blocks east of Heller on SW Barrington 2. SW Swantown Ave to W Pioneer Way (most direct route) Oak Harbor WA While Oak Harbor has currency, quaint old historic downtown is picturesque. Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum-- 270 SE Pioneer Way, Oak Harbor, WA City of Oak Harbor Marina--1401 SE Catalina Drive, Oak Harbor WA 98277 City Parks Deception Pass State Park--41229 State Route 20, [north of] Oak Harbor, WA 98277 It's always easier to see where you want to go once you've been somewhere . . . I wish now I had gone up to Deception Pass parking up by Gun Point, hoping to get a good view of the bridge. Maybe from Cornet Bay Rd? Rosario Rd, Fidalgo Island to the Anacortes Ferry Terminal Being unsure of finding my way to the Anacortes Ferry, I asked for help from the Google gal, and she had me leave Hwy 20 soon after crossing the Deception Pass bridge to get there via Rosario Rd. With trepidation I followed her guidance, hoping she really knew what she was talking about. Turned out she did. Rosario Rd leads into Marine Dr, which becomes Havekost Rd, then "A" Ave which bends into 37th St, which in turn bends into "D" Ave, which intersects with 12th St/Hwy 20 (Oakes Ave, too), you can take that west to the Anacortes Ferry Terminal. Of course, you could just take Hwy 20 all the way to the ferry (less direct route). Friday Harbor, San Juan Island WA I had no idea what to expect of Friday Harbor, or San Juan Island. Friday Harbor is quaint and arrayed for tourism, San Juan Island is full of picturesque scenes. I think, to be fair, one needs at least 3 days for exploring the island. Warning for wheelchairs: Friday Harbor is built on a rather steep hill. I wheeled up and down with some apprehension, even in my electric wheelchair. Perhaps the greatest attraction drawing me on this trip was to see orcas. I was disappointed when I tried to arrange a whale watching tour in Port Townsend (way ahead of time) who said they couldn't accommodate me/my wheelchair. Next I thought of taking the ferries to the San Juan Islands, hoping to see orcas along the way. No sign of them. The Whale Museum in Friday Harbor was something, but not live orcas swimming and playing in the sun. I had great hopes of seeing them from Lime Kiln State Park, which boasts of it . . . Front St: Memorial Park area, Fairweather Park, Port of Friday Harbor, (rear of American Legion) Memorial Park Parks in Friday Harbor Salty Fox Coffee--85 Front St, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 Tops’L seafood bar—1 Front St, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 1st St: San Juan County Courthouse, San Juan Island Grange, American Legion, The Whale Museum I was looking for a place to park so I could get out and wheel around when I saw the County Courthouse. In desperate need of a restroom, I hoped I might find one suitable for a person in a wheelchair. I was fortunate in that, and also found very helpful folk. The Whale Museum was a bit of a disappointment . . . Lots of interesting items/exhibits in a fairly small space, but I think the main exhibits are upstairs, and though they had a stair-chair, I preferred not to use it, as well as wondering how to get my chair up there to continue investigating. I saw what I could, and they didn't offer any discount or refund. They do sell a lot of delightful doo-dads. San Juan Island Grange--152 First St N, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 American Legion--110 First St S, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 Whale Museum--62 First St N, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 2nd St, Spring St, Price St: Vic’s Drive-In--25 Second Street South, Friday Harbor, Washington Fire Station 2nd & West St Palace Theatre (Spring St near 2nd) San Juan Islands Museum of Art-- 540 Spring St, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 St Francis Catholic Church-- 425 Price St, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 San Juan Historical Museum-- 405 Price St, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 Lime Kiln Point State Park--1567 West Side Rd, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 From the San Juan Historical Museum, return to Spring St. Turn west on Spring St and continue as it becomes San Juan Valley Rd, turn south on Douglas Rd. When Douglas Rd bends into Bailer Hill Rd, follow it west across the island 'til it becomes West Side Rd. There are 3 small parking pull-outs on the cliffs overlooking the strait, and then you'll see the sign for Lime Kiln State Park on a somewhat severe bend in the road. Since I didn't have a map of the area, as well as being anxious to make it to other sites, I didn't get to check out everything as to accessibility. Also, I didn't want to pay a fee for a very brief stop. Once inside the park, I suggest driving down the hill to park near the Interpretive Center/"Snacks with a Porpoise". Below are links to find out more than I knew. Note limited hours/days for some attractions/activities. If taking a wheelchair or disabled person, it seems best to call ahead to make sure how much of the trails are ADA and where they lead. Westside Preserve—3 small scenic parking pull-outs (no orcas playing when I was there) San Juan Island National Historical Park-- 4668 Cattle Point Rd, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 From Lime Kiln Point State Park, cross back over the island via West Side Rd/Bailer Hill Rd 'til it bends north into Douglas Rd. Not long after, take Little Rd east to Cattle Point Rd. Go south on Cattle Point Rd all the way to the southern tip of San Juan Island, making a detour or two at American Camp, or various points of view. Note: English Camp is at the northern end of the island. Friday Harbor Ferry, San Juan Island WA I didn't get to see everything, but it was hard to believe how much I did see in one day: from Port Townsend on the ferry to Whidbey Island, most of the length of Whidbey Island to the Anacortes Ferry, crossing to Friday Harbor, exploring around Friday Harbor and San Juan Island . . . I still had "miles to go before [I'd] sleep" in Sedro-Wooley WA. Ferry to/from Anacortes--large enough to serve supper The ferry from Friday Harbor back to Anacortes served supper, but I almost missed the Ivar's famous clam chowder! It's a long enduring line to wait, at supper time. But I just had to have clam chowder at the edge of the Pacific Ocean. The ferry indoors is decked with nature and Native American themes. It was a treat to see the Olympic Mountains from the ferry. The views of Mt Baker and the North Cascades are magnificent from the ferry. We were fortunate that a crew member showed us Mt Rainier, which our eyes could make out better than my phone camera. It was hard to come inside when the time came, such a grand experience! Sedro-Woolley WA Take Hwy 20 east from Anacortes or I-5 to get to Sedro-Woolley. I had had a long day already, and was anxious to get settled in my hotel room. Thus, I passed a lot of places to explore between Anacortes and Sedro-Woolley. Below are a couple links for Sedro-Woolley.
By the time I unloaded luggage into my room I was too late for some of the eating options I could wheel to, beside sidewalk renovations created difficulties. The DQ a couple blocks away had a closed sign posted before their advertised hours were done, but the employees opened up for me in my need. I enjoyed the food, though it mostly isn't too diabetic friendly. They do have salads, but I needed something more substantial, like a sandwich. I think I tried their Dilly or Fudge Bar and maybe the Vanilla Orange Bar, which were tasty, but I forgot to get a photo. See https://thejeansfit.com/lowest-calorie-desserts-at-dairy-queen/ Three Rivers Inn Hotel-- 210 Ball St off Moore St/Hwy 20, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 Bonnie Jo's Café--818 Metcalf St, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 Sedro-Woolley Museum--727 Murdock St, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 (I missed their open hours) North Cascades National Park and Mt Baker Ranger District Visitor Center--810 State Route 20, Sedro-Woolley WA--this is a must stop before exploring the North Cascades: such helpful info and staff. The North Cascades My first full day in Sedro-Wooley and the North Cascades, was rainy & overcast. I thought I'd just get what I could. The day I was to leave was so gorgeous that I started east up Hwy 20 "just a bit", and then it became "just a bit further", and ended traveling entirely through the Cascades to the east side. So Beautiful! Hwy 9 & Hwy 542--north along the west side of the Cascade Mountains, then east to Mt Baker Ski Area Hwy 9 comes up from the south off Hwy 522 near Woodinville WA, traveling along the westerns edge of the Cascade Mountains. At Sedro-Woolley it joins Hwy 20 through town, then just east of the North Cascades National Park/Mt Baker Ranger Station Visitor Center Hwy 9 continues its way north (eventually to intersect with Canada Hwy 1; becoming Hwy 11 at the border). East of Bellingham WA Hwy 542 intersects with Hwy 9, and leads up to the Mt Baker Ski Area, and at long last Artist Point (which I didn't find). It seemed to me there was a lack of adequate road signs for direction, and you can't count on cell service. If I had been able to visit the inside of the Ranger Station at Glacier WA or the Heather Meadows Visitor Center, perhaps I could have found Artist Point, but then it was overcast anyway. Accessible Adventures’ excellent 5 min video= Highway 20 through the Cascade Mtns from Sedro-Woolley to Winthrop WA Baker Lake Rd, between Hamilton & Concrete WA About 13-14 mi north of Hwy 20 on Baker Lake Rd is a vault toilet and some interpretive signs, just before the turn to Baker Lake Dam area, where there is camping, a boat launch, and free day-use area. A little beyond that on Baker Lake Rd is the Shadow of the Sentinels Interpretive Site with a wheelchair accessible trail, though I recommend having a companion in case there's trouble in some spots on the trail. Rockport State Park--51905 State Route 20, Rockport, WA 98283 Cool & green place to recreate. Accessible paved trail.
Rest Area at Sutter Creek--Hwy 20 east of Rockport WA. Rest and repast right on the Skagit River; view of the North Cascades if in the right spot. Marblemount WA--Hwy 20, 41 mi/abt 50 min east of Sedro-Woolley WA (if no traffic delays/construction) I traveled through more than once, different times of day. A helpful person pumped gas for me to make sure I'd get back to my hotel in Sedro-Woolley after a long day of driving. North Cascades Visitor Center--State Route 20 near milepost 120 and the town of Newhalem WA The first time I tried to visit this Visitor Center the entry road was closed for paving. Very disappointing. I thought it was my only chance. But as it turned out, I came up the next day, and was fortunate to arrive just as it was opened. It was a beautiful day in every way. The visitor center is full of valuable info and intro to the North Cascades. A short very accessible trail leads to a spectacular view of the peaks. There's also a campground/day-use area here.
Newhalem WA--55 mi east of Sedro-Woolley on Hwy 20, about an hour and 10 min On the south side of Hwy 20 is the village of Newhalem, the north side offers parking and such for tourists. I didn't get to see everything, esp. the locomotive and the suspension bridge.
Gorge Overlook Trail—abt 2 mi east of Newhalem WA There's a pedestrian crossing on Hwy 20 to access a pedestrian lane of the bridge over Gorge Creek, to see the astounding Gorge Creek Falls (242 ft), and the deep chasm they fall into. Accessibility is good, but it's not for the timid or persons with acrophobia. It's difficult to get a good shot of the entire falls, due to the height. The Gorge Overlook Trail is accessible and not long, with interpretive signs and great views of the dam on the Skagit River and the lake/reservoir it creates. Restroom and waste receptacles.
Colonial Creek Campground--about milepost 130, before heading up the steep hill to the Vista Point Boat access to Diablo Lake. The north campground has a boat ramp and Thunder Knob Trailhead. The south campground has a boat launch and Thunder Creek Trailhead.
Diablo Lake Vista Point—Hwy 20, milepost 131.7 Fantastic views, parking, picnic tables, vault toilets, waste receptacles, plenty of interpretive signs. I took photos going east and then returning west in the evening. Ross Lake Overlooks—Hwy 20, abt mile 136
Washington Pass Observation Site--Hwy 20, 31 mi west of Winthrop WA This is SO worth stopping and exploring. Winthrop WA--Hwy 20, the east side of the North Cascades Downtown Winthrop presents a quaint western theme. There's a downtown access to the Chewuch River, just about where it joins the Methow River, at 229 Riverside Ave, a little parking for Spring Creek Bridge (part of the Susie Stephens Trail) at 324 State Route 20, plenty of places to stay and to eat. With an historical museum, rafting, ice skating, and various family friendly parks the town entices a stay for days. I was desperate for a restroom, and was so grateful to find one open at the Winthrop Ball Field, across from Mack Lloyd Park at the west end of Winthrop. Shafer Historical Museum--285 Castle Ave, Winthrop, WA 98862 The Barnyard Cinema---729 State Route 20, Winthrop, WA 98862 Winthrop Rink--208 White Ave, Winthrop, WA 98862 Methow Rafting--309 Riverside Ave, Winthrop, WA 98862 Winthrop Barn Auditorium--51 State Rte 20, Winthrop, WA 98862 Glacier Peak, Snohomish county WA (not to be confused with Glacier National Park in Montana)
I had hoped to get some great pictures of Glacier Peak as I traveled south from Sedro-Woolley, but it seems not to be visible from anywhere I could easily get to. I am left to be satisfied with seeing it virtually through the experiences of others. There are longer hiking/climbing videos, but I am including links for shorter videos.
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Aug 2022 our other travel plans fell through, but my travel buddy already had the days off from work and wanted to revisit Boise, so with only a week's notice and without reservations we reserved our accommodations. Boise feels open, we never experienced bad traffic, and there seemed to be plenty of parking. He set the agenda. For more about Boise and surrounding areas, see On the road again . . . a few highlights traveling east on I-84 from Portland. Three nights and four days only gave us two days actually in the Boise area, with a day to travel there and a day of travel home. Here's what we did in the Boise area this trip: Day 1 --2 car washes in Meridian: bright, clean, clean car guarantees, plenty of free vacuums for $18-20 top service --drove Chinden Blvd aka Hwy 20/26 to downtown Boise from Meridian ID --walked up to the Idaho State Capitol via 9th St. --walked down Capitol Blvd & around the Basque Block --visited Boise Art Museum --then Idaho State Museum & environs --next we went to revisit Zoo Boise, hoping to see the animals we missed before --walked around downtown Boise --ate late at Chandlers restaurant --Stayed at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Boise Airport --(some other options for accommodations near the airport & downtown) Day 2 --Ann Morrison Park --The Village at Meridian for shopping and a movie Rocket Express Car Wash, Chinden Blvd & Linder Rd, Meridian ID Epic Shine Car Wash, 6524 N Linder Rd, Meridian, ID 83646 Chinden Blvd, aka Hwy 20/26 between Meridian/Eagle and Boise
Walking up 9th St toward the Capitol from Grove Street Parking Garage--230 S 10th St, Boise, ID 83702 The first level of the garage is for Hotel 43 patrons. In anticipation of roaming about downtown Boise and ending with supper at Chandler's, we parked for the day. I was glad to be parked in a garage, as the temp that day got up to 103 (I brought ice bottles and a shiny bag to put them in to cool my legs, but then forgot them in the hotel room that morn!). We exited the garage on 9th St and walked to the Idaho State Capitol (on Jefferson). Idaho State Capitol--700 W Jefferson St, Boise, ID 83702 This is a great place to learn some history of the west, and about how our representative form of government works. Pertinent history links under Idaho State Museum below. For more photos and info of the Capitol, see Capitol Blvd The Basque Block, Capitol Blvd & Grove St
Boise Art Museum (BAM)--670 Julia Davis Dr, Boise, ID 83702 (Julia Davis Park campus) I was disappointed that photos were not allowed in the galleries, because whether you agree with the politics of the artists, I really enjoyed the art and the historical black experiences it depicted. That day happened to be free for seniors, and my travel buddy had his student ID, so his ticket was very inexpensive. Idaho State Museum & environs--610 Julia Davis Dr, Boise, ID 83702 (Julia Davis Park campus) While my buddy toured the museum again, I got better photos of the environs. Unfortunately, the path through the historic "village" next to the museum was only open limited hours on the weekend. The Black History Museum still wasn't open (even though during posted hours/days). Continue through the park to Myrtle St, or take Myrtle St southeast off Capitol Blvd to get to Discovery Center of Idaho (kid activities, camps, events). For more photos & info about the museum, see Sacajawea Trail through ID and beyond, including more exhibits from Idaho State Museum, etc. OR Trail history in ID and beyond, including exhibits from the Boise area & southern ID More Museums around Boise Zoo Boise--355 Julia Davis Dr, Boise, ID, 83702 We had visited this zoo in April of 2021, when it was early in the year for many animals to be outdoors. We hoped this time to see what we had missed the last time. But this was an August day of 103 degrees, too hot even for my phone/camera! I got many photos, but not all I wanted. Thankfully I did find an outlet to recharge my battery, and if I had remembered my ice bottles, I could have cooled my phone/camera more effectively than just seeking relief from the heat inside indoor exhibits. It's dry, not humid heat, so that helps.
After the Zoo we had some time to wander about before eating late again at Chandler's We stopped for a refreshing drink & eats at Tropical Smoothie on 8th just south of Main. Eventually we walked along Front St to an impressive Whole Foods. Discovery Center of Idaho (kid activities, camps, and programs) is only 2 or 3 blocks from there on Myrtle St, the other side of Julia Davis Park from the zoo. See link at "More Museums Around Boise". Returning downtown for a late supper, I noted banners for a summer concert series at the JUMP Amphitheater. Tropical Smoothie Café—8th St just south of Main, Boise ID Whole Foods—Broadway & Front, Boise ID JUMP park/plaza Fine Dining Chandler's restaurant is associated with Hotel 43. We were somewhat early, so I rested awhile in the lobby of the hotel. Chandler's is my travel buddy's favorite restaurant in Boise. It's not for the slim of wallet, but the food is so delicious, and the staff is so very thoughtful and attentive! Chandlers Prime Steaks & Fine Seafood--981 W Grove St, Boise, ID 83702 Hotel 43--981 W Grove St., Boise, ID 83702 Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Boise Airport--3050 S Shoshone, Boise, ID 83705 We were on such short notice to make our hotel reservations this time, it was difficult to find a suitable ADA room. We would have liked to be downtown, but found this hotel near the airport, and it was not unreasonably far away, though not within walking distance. However, Boise has reasonable parking options downtown. We were happy with this hotel. Near Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Boise Airport (off Vista Ave) are: Applebee's Grill + Bar--2810 W Elder St, Boise, ID 83705 Simple Suites--2909 W Elder St, Boise, ID, 83705 Comfort Inn & Suites Boise Airport--3625 W Elder St, Boise, ID 83705 (a little west of Holiday Inn) Fairfield Inn Boise (by Marriott)--3300 S Shoshone St, Boise, ID 83705 (turn south on Shoshone off Elder) Hampton Inn Boise - Airport--3270 S Shoshone St, Boise, ID 83705 Super 8 by Wyndham Boise--2773 W Elder St, Boise, ID 83705 Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Boise (Red Lion)--2525 Sunrise Rim Rd, Boise, ID 83705 Ramada by Wyndham Boise--3300 S Vista Ave, Boise, ID 83705 Saffron Indian Bar and Grill--3300 S Vista Ave, Boise, ID 83705 Boise Hindu Temple--3300 S Vista Ave, Boise, ID 83705 Lotus By Hotel Inn--3302 S Vista Ave, Boise, ID 83705 (behind Saffron Indian Bar & Grill) Take Vista Ave across I-84 to Airport Way: Denny's--2580 W Airport Way, Boise, ID 83705 Rodeway Inn Airport--2799 W Airport Way, Boise, ID 83705 Best Western Vista Inn at the Airport--2645 W Airport Way, Boise, ID 83705 Airport Inn--2660 W Airport Way, Boise, ID 83705 Motel 6 Boise ID-Airport--2323 W Airport Way, Boise, ID 83705 Inn America-Boise--2275 W Airport Way, Boise, ID 83705 A few downtown hotels The Grove Hotel, 245 S Capitol Blvd, Boise, ID 83702 Residence Inn by Marriott, Capitol & Broad St Inn at 500 Capitol, 500 S Capitol Blvd, Boise, ID 83702 Home2Suites, 202 S 6th St, Boise, ID 83702 Ann Morrison Park--1000 S. Americana Blvd., Boise (a couple entrances off Capitol Blvd as well) We were sufficiently impressed by the amenities at this park. See the link (which includes a less than 1 min video of the accessible playground). It's over the river and across Capitol Blvd from Julia Davis Park (Idaho State Museum, Boise Art Museum, Zoo Boise, etc), and across from Boise State U. A couple landmarks on Capitol Blvd near Ann Morrison Park: Boise State U and Boise Depot park. Boise State University--1910 W University Dr, Boise, ID 83725Boise Depot--2603 W Eastover Terrace (off Capitol Blvd), Boise, ID 83706 The Village at Meridian--3597 E. Monarch Sky Lane #225, Meridian ID 83646
What a fun place to wander, shop, dine, take in a movie! Kids play included.
Just across the way from The Village at Meridian is a 58-acre park with an amphitheater, playground, bandshell, senior center, gardens, fishing & basketball.
I begin this post with Point Defiance, as the Zoo and Fort Nisqually were what drew me to Tacoma initially. Then on the way home from those, I was enticed by the parks along Ruston Way. For years I have wanted to get to the Tacoma Museum District, and every time I've driven past Fort Lewis I've been intrigued by those classic old buildings. I decided I needed to add NW Trek, and all these treks make up this post. Quite a number of the places to see are not open the early part of the week, I found. Point Defiance Park Point Defiance ferry area (2022) --including Wilson Way Pedestrian Bridge, w/stairs & slides, chutes & ladders; the ferry terminal, Anthony's restaurant, and the marina. You can get to Dune Peninsula/Dune Park by taking N Waterfront Dr opposite Anthony's, under the (Vashon) Ferry Crossing Landing Rd/N Pearl St. Point Defiance Park/gardens (2022) It took me 3 or more trips to take these all in, as I visited other venues in the area. There's still more to explore . . . Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium (2020) This was the beginning of my interest in Tacoma. I had a manual chair then, and a pusher, so we made it around with great delight. It is built on a fairly steep hill, so having a helper is recommended for those in wheelchairs. Fort Nisqually (2022 Brigade Encampment re-enactment) I had hoped to go to the Brigade Encampment in 2021, but couldn't manage. So it was with much anticipation I finally arrived for the re-enactment in 2022, and I was not disappointed (except that I could only peek into several of the old structures, since they were not amenable to wheelchairs). But I had a great time. It takes a couple hours to get there from Portland OR.
The Homestead Restaurant & Bakery (2022) After the Fort Nisqually encampment, I wanted to get the kind of meal they might have got at the fort in the mid 1800s. The closest I could find was Homestead Restaurant (not particularly close, but at least still in Tacoma). It was good. Of interest were the very old B&W short films/cartoons playing on the screen in the dining room. Waterfront Parks along Ruston Way--(2022) Coming home from the zoo a couple years prior, we glimpsed these enticing parks, which present as one long park, with about a 2 mile paved trail/walkway by the road, and at times a trail along the water. Lots of picnic opportunities, as well as restaurants. Looking at the map as I was preparing this post, I saw that at McCarver St you can veer off to see the inconspicuous rock monument to Old Town Tacoma's 1st school house at 28th & Starr St, the Job Carr Cabin Museum (1865 cabin replica & exhibits in Old Town Park, 2350 N 30th St, Tacoma, WA), and if you continue west on 30th to Union Ave then south you can visit University of Puget Sound, 1.8 mi/6 min in good traffic from Old Town Park).
Tacoma Chinese Reconciliation Park, 1741 N Schuster Pkwy, Tacoma, WA 98402, off Ruston Way Jack Hyde Park w/sundial, at the north end of the Chinese Reconciliation Park Old Town Dock & Northern Fish, Ruston Way, Tacoma WA Top of the Ocean Historical Marker--between Old Town Dock/Northern Fish & Silver Cloud Hotel, Ruston Way Silver Cloud Hotel & Hamilton Park, 2400 Ruston Way, Tacoma WA Dickman Mill Park--2423 Ruston Way, Tacoma, WA 98402 Offers history, restrooms, picnic tables, benches, great views. Between Dickman Mill Park and MSOC Fire Station Harbor Lights restaurant-- 2761 Ruston Way, Tacoma, WA 98402 RAM Restaurant--3001 Ruston Way, Tacoma, WA 98402 Alder Way Katie Downs Waterfront Tavern--3211 Ruston Way, Tacoma, WA 98402 MSOC Fire Station & memorial at 3301 Ruston Way; Fireboat #1 at 3427 Ruston Way; and Duke Seafood restaurant at 3327 Ruston Way, Tacoma, WA 98402
Kama'Aina Hawaiian Grill, Les Davis Public Fishing Pier, and Judge Jack Tanner Park--3427 Ruston Way, Tacoma, WA 98402 Mystery bike art and Cummings Park, 3939 Ruston Way, Tacoma, WA 98402 Lobster Shop restaurant 4015 Ruston Way, Tacoma, WA 98402 Point Ruston Historic Ferry, Rainier Condos, & Ruston WA
Photos from the train are from a trip to Seattle by train late April 2022.
Downtown Tacoma & Landmarks (Commerce St is 1 block west of Pacific Ave) I was able to explore and take photos mainly from S 21st St to S 15th S along Pacific Ave, plus up to Old Spaghetti Factory. I traveled this in my electric wheelchair quite easily, a portion on each of 2 days (took so many photos I ran out of juice one day--both wheelchair & phone camera). There are lots of places to eat in the area. Don Pugnetti Park, 2085 Pacific Ave, Tacoma; north side of S 21st St aka Hwy 509, west of S 21st St bridge University of Washington Tacoma-- 1900 Commerce St, Tacoma, WA 98402 (campus extends several streets) Washington State History Museum-- 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402 This is a fascinating place of soaring architecture with many stories to tell, from geology/geography, to the peoples past and present, to the facets & features of history (peoples, places, times & timelines, technology, change, choices, viewpoints, values), with many opportunities to engage the young (including a cool extensive model train). The museum offers Family Saturdays (activities), Free 3rd grade Thursdays (evenings), Virtual Events, a Special Event venue including a catering kitchen. Exhibits for Latinos, Blacks, Japanese, Sacajawea Trail, and Oregon Trail to be added to posts linked below.
Thea Foss Waterway Public Esplanade Thea Foss Waterway Public Esplande is a wonderful walkway along the waterfront, but is not contiguous all the way. Another part of it is by Foss Waterway Seaport (see further down in this post). The Social restaurant Thea’s Landing apartments
Tacoma Union Station--1717 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402, in which is now housed:
Tollefson Plaza & nearby Tacoma Art Museum (TAM)--1701 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402--was closed when I was there Japanese Language School Memorial—just south of S 17th St between Pacific Ave & Commerce St The Koi restaurant, 1552 COMMERCE ST SUITE 100, TACOMA, WA 98402 Tollefson Plaza--1548 Commerce St, Tacoma, WA 98402 (and Pacific Ave) Tacoma Welcoming Figure—just north of S 17th St between Pacific Ave & Commerce St—faces Pacific Ave Children’s Museum of Tacoma-- 1501 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402 Courtyard by Marriott Tacoma Downtown, 1515 Commerce St, Tacoma, WA 98402 Near Courtyard by Marriott Tacoma Downtown, 1515 Commerce St, Tacoma, WA 98402 Marriott Tacoma Downtown, 1538 Commerce Street, Tacoma, Washington, 98402 Greater Tacoma Convention & Trade Center, 500 Commerce Street, Tacoma, WA 98402 Stanford's Steak, 1502 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402 The Old Spaghetti Factory, 1250 Pacific Ave #101, Tacoma, WA 98402 Landmarks further north I saw from my car, but couldn't stop for photos. Tacoma Venues & EventsThe Broadway Farmers Market-- 1099-949, Broadway, Tacoma, WA 98402 The Theater District--on or near 9th & Commerce, a block west of Pacific. the Theater District lightrail stop is on Commerce St north of the theaters.
Foss Waterway Seaport--705 Dock St, Tacoma, WA 98402--a maritime heritage museum Thea Foss Waterway Public Esplande is not contiguous all the way. Part of it is by the Museum of Glass. Tacoma Mall--4502 S Steele St, Tacoma, WA 98409 Joint Base Lewis-McChord JBLM Visitors Center, 5901 41st Division Dr, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98433 The Visitor Center isn't really impressive, it's mainly where to get a pass to get into the base (if you have good reason to go in) or the museum, which is a little drive away. But it does have a display case, some historic photos & info, restroom etc. Near the Visitor Center is the historic old gate and monuments to military units with interesting historic info. Captain Meriwether Lewis Memorial Park next to the Visitor Center Lewis Army Museum--4320 Main St. and Constitution Dr, Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), WA All the times I've passed by while traveling I-5 (and by train), I've been intrigued by the antique buildings on this base. At last I found opportunity to explore late May of 2022. It was challenging for me to find the entrance to the Lewis Army Museum (even with the google guide), for which you must call for an escort to walk you from the gate at the gravel parking area to the museum itself. As much as I like history, military history hasn't been my favorite. Yet I was really engaged with the exhibits in this museum. The little gift shop is run by volunteers, has very limited hours, and a lot of inviting stuff, which I hadn't happened on the right day to get. In order to rein in the number of photos here, I will save most of those about Lewis & Clark to add to my Sacajawea Trail post, linked below. Northwest Trek Trip (Aug 2022)
We traveled through Tenino, Rainier, and Yelm on our way to NW Trek Wildlife Park. I didn't get the best pics of those inviting little communities, but wanted to show at least something. Loved the fantastic views of Mt Rainier as we went. Tenino WA City of Rainier WA
This really is a stroll/drive through the PNW forest and meadows, thus the animals might not be as visible as in some zoos, and the focus is not on the exotic animals of far away lands, but of those local to the PNW. There are various indoor exhibits (looking through the glass), as well as outdoor views. We strolled around the walking paths before our scheduled driving tour, and returned for lunch and to see more of the exhibits after the drive. Seattle/Tacoma state parks for further explorations
July 2022 update After a couple years' cancellation due to COVID, the Hawaiian Festival ("4 Days of Aloha") returned to Esther Short Park in 2021, which I missed. In 2022 it was held the weekend of July 21-24. The first 2 days were classes & workshops, Thurs night was a party, Fri night was a concert. Saturday festivities were performers & dancers all day, as well as vendors. Sunday was a 5K/10K run, and a multi-cultural program representing the many peoples of Hawaii. All events/days had a ticket price. I had determined to go on Saturday. In previous years the Saturday festivities were free, but it costed me $10 to get in. I got my ticket ahead online, but plenty of people were buying them at the gate. On my way into downtown at 6th St, I saw a handicapped sign with an arrow. Considering the amount of traffic and the probable difficulty of finding parking, I followed the sign. Not only did I encounter handicapped parking, it was in a garage (costed me $4 for the day), so that my car was protected from becoming an oven. Vancouver Mall--8700 N.E. Vancouver Mall Drive, Vancouver, WA 98662
Part 1 of the Oregon Trail took us as far as Baker City OR. The state of Oregon has provided great Oregon Trail pavilions/kiosks all along the ways to the End of the Oregon Trail. This next section of the trail includes info/photos from Haines OR to Fort Vancouver WA via the Columbia River, including:
Not everyone who traveled the Oregon Trail went south to the Willamette Valley--some went north!
Here are some links for a quick review/overview of the Oregon Trail:
Haines OR An option to driving west from Baker City on I-84 (actually, 84 is traveling north-south between Baker & La Grande), is to travel the back way (Hwy 30) to get to the tiny hamlet of Haines OR. Along the main street is a long park or two that have historic cabins and historic information, as well as picnicking and a bus stop. Turn east on 3rd St to get to Eastern Oregon Museum. It has such limited hours I haven't managed to get there yet.
North Powder OR--roughly 1500 mi from Independence MO on today's roads, about 1700 mi on the OR Trail Travel north on Hwy 30 from Haines, or north on I-84 from Baker City to the small community of North Powder. As you exit I-84, you'll be on 2nd St. A left on E St takes you past the library, the fire dept, and a cute little church. Continue north on 2nd St and it becomes Hwy 237, the back way to Union OR. See also Union OR--Union County Museum Union has a great museum (3 or 4 buildings) of local history, including a good collection of cowboy displays, Victorian life, antiques, and exhibits highlighting natural and Native American history. They had a copy of the excellent reference Maps of the Oregon Trail by Gregory M. Franzwa, copyright 1982, and Powerful Rockey: The Blue Mountains and the Oregon Trail by John W. Evans, copyright 1990, (which I bought, it also includes maps). For more info and photos of Union OR, see Charles H. Reynolds Rest Area just east of La Grande OR Located just at the foot of the mountains as you enter the Grande Ronde Valley on I-84, it's a little east of where Hwy 203 from Union OR meets I-84. About "the Blues", the Blue Mountains: La Grande OR--25 mi through Ladd Canyon from North Powder OR I tried to follow the signs from I-84 to the Oregon Trail site . . . it was confusing. I finally found the little marker at B Ave & Cedar St: it's just on the corner of somebody's yard. Very near there is Birnie Park, with a path of Oregon Trail monuments and a symbolic (un)covered wagon climbing structure.
Hilgard Junction State Park OR Their site says the restrooms are flushing and accessible. There are two parts of the park--one on either side of the road. The park is right on the Grande Ronde River, swim with care.
Blue Mountain Crossing, 9 mi west of La Grande OR I had a hard time finding this place, instructions don't seem clear. Here's my stab at it: take exit 248 off I-84; at the stop sign veer to the right toward Kamela, going NW on Old Emigrant Hill Scenic Frontage Rd a ways til it goes under the highway and crosses Dry Creek, then take a right on Oregon Trail Road, 1843--it's not far off I-84, only 3 mi total, I think. I was so enthused because it's supposed to be a handicapped accessible trail with interpretive signs, but I was sadly disappointed, because unfortunately it was closed when I went. UPDATE after Aug 2022 trip home from Boise--Blue Mountain Crossing was better marked, and open, to my delight! Meacham OR--20 to 25 mi west of La Grande OR, mountain town near the pass I've seen the signs for Meacham indicating an Oregon Trail site, but with no mention how far off the highway it is, I didn't dare start a tangent I'd be sorry for. On the map it doesn't look that far. Take exit 238 off I-84 and follow the signs to Meacham, the road to Meacham parallels the highway for awhile, becomes old Hwy 30. There is a sign "Historical Marker Ahead" as you round the bend and come downhill to parallel the RR tracks. A little further there's a sign for the historical marker pointing to the right off the road (before you come to Main St which is to the right and crosses the RR tracks). Emigrant Springs State Park--26 mi west of La Grande, 24 mi east of Pendleton (2.5 mi west of Meacham) Mid way between Pendleton & La Grande, up in the cool (or cold snowy) mountains, Emigrant Springs is a pleasant place to visit in summer, picnic, learn more about the Oregon Trail, camp, ride horses, take in the beauty of tall timber . . . Deadman Pass Rest Area--just before heading down the steep hills into the Pendleton area Whitman Mission and Fort Walla Walla, Walla Walla WA The Whitmans were important in the development of the Oregon Trail from a trader/trapper track to a wagon road. After only a couple years the main Oregon Trail did not include the tangental trip to the mission, except for those in necessity. After the mission was attacked through the clash of cultures and misunderstandings, it was abandoned. There are yet a few memories of the genesis of the Oregon Trail in the Walla Walla area, and at Fort Walla Walla museum. Whitman Mission National Historic Site, Walla Walla WA Fort Walla Walla Museum, Walla Walla WA The Tamastslikt Cultural Institute and Pendleton OR Descending Emigrant Hill has improved even since I was a child, imagine how it would have been in a covered wagon without a paved road or an efficient braking system! But no doubt the view was as spectacular then as it is now. At the bottom of that hill is the comprehensive Arrowhead Travel Plaza, Wildhorse Casino Resort, and the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, a museum of the region's Native Americans. Part of its presentation is the effect of the Oregon Trail on Native Americans. Very interesting exhibits, including both sights and sounds. Unfortunately, they ask that no photos or recordings be taken of the exhibits. They generally have an annual Pow Wow, and other events. I believe they participate in the Pendleton Round-up each year. Pendleton celebrates its heritage, and one of the highlights is The Heritage Station Museum: really worth visiting. Right next to the museum, and the RR tracks, is Museum Park, with the Oregon Trail pavilion, and the Chamber of Commerce is handily by. For more info and photos of Pendleton and The Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, see Echo OR (a bit south of I-84), and Echo Meadows (where ruts can be seen) Last I was there, Echo was a pretty cute little town. There's an Oregon Trail driving tour through Echo, I tried it 2-3 times and was only partly successful. Not enough signs and no mileage clues. A map with key and annotations/directions is available from the the city and/or museum (which has limited hours--you can request them to mail brochures), but I haven't had a chance to try it out since I obtained the brochure. I did at least find Echo Meadows, though I didn't have the energy to get out of the car at the time.
Stanfield Rest Area, 20 mi west of Pendleton on I-84 I happened to have gone to the eastbound pull-off when I stopped for photos. Here's a link to a map of Oregon Rest Areas, listed by route, with amenities: Cecil OR--14 mi south on Hwy 74, from I-84 (between Arlington and Boardman) I saw the sign for an Oregon Trail site 13 mi south on Hwy 74 (not every sign is so nice about giving mileage), so on a whim I took off. I didn't know at the time that Cecil was only another mile, and might have had some kind of marker. But, I got some photos of the one 13 mi from the freeway. Arlington OR--73 mi west of Pendleton via I-84 If you and/or the kids need a nice break on the drive along the Columbia River (I-84), Arlington has a great park with lots of fun amenities. Of interest to this post is the Oregon Trail pavilion. For more info and photos of Arlington, see the beginning of the topmost post below. From Arlington you can take Hwy 19 south to get to another Old Oregon Trail site, and off 19 it looks like you can get to the Oregon Trail Fourmile Canyon Historic Site Note: more info/photos about several of the places below can also be found at Columbia Hills State Park, Maryhill Museum, & Maryhill State Park WA Across the Columbia River from the Oregon Trail are other views of the trail. For more info, see Biggs Junction OR & Deschutes River State Recreation Area Biggs Junction is mostly a travel & truck stop with appropriate services thereto. Dated 7-16-2022: EZ Trip travel plaza had Shell gas (I think), convenience store, and Subway. Pilot Trave Center had gas, convenience store, McDonalds, and Cinnabon. TA Express had Chevron, convenience store, Krispy Krunch Chicken, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell. Dinty's Market & Deli, across from EZ Trip travel plaza, also had a motel. Circle K with 76 gas (I think) is next to Dinty's. Next to TA Express is Three Rivers Inn. All the travel centers had facilities and space for trucks/big rigs. Up the hill from EZ Trip was a truck repair. The Mini Mart was closed. Biggs Nu Vu motel looked like it wasn't open, but was being painted, so maybe it was or would be. Deschutes River State Recreation Area seems an oasis--a pleasant green place to picnic, camp, hike on the east side of the Deschutes, boat ramp on the west side of the Deschutes. Waterfowl to be seen either side. The Oregon Trail route along the Deschutes River is still visible--we saw it on the way back to Maupin OR after our river rafting ride . . . below is the link to that adventure: The Dalles OR--126 mi west of Pendleton via I-84 The Dalles has a series of murals, some of which depict the Oregon Trail. On the west end of town the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center shares a building with the Wasco County Historical Museum. The former covers a wide range of historic, prehistoric, natural and human history. The latter focuses more on local history. They have a raptor program as well. The space is available as an event venue. We were very much anticipating an exciting community event in the fall a few years ago, but it was cancelled due to COVID. I hope another year we can recoup that loss! Memaloose rest area & campground, west of The Dalles OR Access is only westbound. If traveling east, take exit 76 and travel west on I-84 for 3 mi. There are picnic tables, including at least a couple with windbreaks, right along the river, but high above it. There's an accessible picnic table right at the parking lot of the rest stop, to get to the ones along the river involves some fairly steep declines (inclines on the way back to your vehicle), so a person in a wheelchair may need a pusher or a motor. More about the campground at Hood River—about 150 mi west of Pendleton by modern roads, that is, I-84 The 4-fold flyer “End of the Oregon Trail Loop Tour” says there’s a “Dog River” (now called “Hood River”) interpretive exhibit the Hood River Info Center can give information about, and “Hood River County Historical Museum--The Oregon Trail is featured including an exhibit of covered wagon models,” in Hood River. My annotated map “The Oregon Trail: Following the route of the Oregon Trail in Oregon” also mentions Hood River. Cascade Locks “End of the Oregon Trail Loop Tour” says there’s a “Cascade Wayside Exhibit –Interpretive exhibit of the treacherous voyage down river.” There’s a Historical Museum in Cascade Locks, but it’s not wheelchair accessible. “The Oregon Trail: Following the route of the Oregon Trail in Oregon” says, “Many emigrants portaged their goods around the Cascades of the Columbia. It is difficult to imagine the treacherous series of rapids and cataracts quieted today by dams.” Troutdale OR “The Oregon Trail: Following the route of the Oregon Trail in Oregon” says, "By the late 1840s, most emigrants choosing the water route moved away from the Columbia at the mouth of the Sandy River and continued overland. Two interpretive signs at the main entrance to the Columbia Gorge Factory Stores and another at the Harlow House, one of Troutdale’s oldest homes, describe Troutdale’s place on the Oregon Trail and its history as the gateway to the eastern Willamette Valley.” Fort Vancouver WA Many pioneers of the Oregon Country stopped over for supplies at Fort Vancouver on the north side of the Columbia River (goods raised or made at the fort, or shipped clear around the southern tip of South America). Remember, many had had to lighten their load and leave precious items along the trail or barter them with Native Americans or at Forts along the way. From Fort Vancouver folks could cross the Columbia River to the south and make their way to settle in the fertile Willamette Valley. For more info and photos about Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, see the link below, which I have updated to include photos from July 2023. Updates from summer 2023 travel Two preeminent persons of the Oregon Trail in the Pacific Northwest were John McLoughlin, Chief Factor of Ft Vancouver under British Hudson's Bay Company, and the pioneer woman of faith Mother Joseph, a contemporary of McLoughlin. John McLoughlin, Chief Factor of Ft Vancouver
Designed, created, & developed over the years by Mother Joseph to serve many functions, The Academy is now an event venue that also houses interesting small shops. It still has the beautiful original chapel. Really interesting tours by knowledgeable volunteers available. I managed it in a wheelchair, though the old elevator was a challenging squeeze. More photos kept for an upcoming update of Vancouver WA post. From Ft Vancouver not everyone who traveled the Oregon Trail went south to settle in the Willamette Valley. Much to my surprise, not a few settled as far north as Olympia WA! Lewis County thumbnail history I was impressed by Oregon Trail Days in Tenino WA, a small town with a lot of history and heart. Lots more photos at Olympia, Tumwater, and Lacey WA I stayed in Olympia as a hub for my travel to Tenino and other places, beside Olympia itself. Here I'll only include photos that have specific relevance to the Oregon Trail. I stayed at the Red Lion Inn & Suites Governor Hotel, which has a lot of interesting historic photos. For more about Olympia, Tumwater, and Lacey, scroll down my post about the PNW Capitals.
Washington State Capitol--416 Sid Snyder Ave SW, Olympia, WA Arc of Statehood--along Capitol Lake in Heritage Park (just north of the Capitol) The northward extension of the Oregon Trail was the Cowlitz Trail. It traveled through the present day counties of Clark (est 1844), Cowlitz (est 1854), Lewis (est 1845), and Thurston (est 1852). Naturally, the shapes and sizes of those counties evolved. The Cowlitz Trail Bigelow House—918 Glass Ave NE, Olympia WA Daniel Bigelow was one of the first settlers of Olympia, an attorney & promotor of the place. His & his wife's home here was built by 1860 at least. They also promoted women's right to vote.
Early settlers to Olympia were the Howards. “Alexander and Rebecca (Groundage) Howard emigrated from Massachusetts to Olympia in the late 1850s, just a few years after the town’s founding. The Howards were among the earliest Black residents of Olympia and Washington Territory. Shortly after their arrival they took over management of the Pacific House Hotel, built by 1854, at Capitol Way and State Avenue. Under Rebecca’s leadership, the Pacific House (and later Restaurant) achieved acclaim as a fine, well-run establishment comparable with restaurants and hotels in San Francisco. President Rutherford B. Hayes and his entourage came to Pacific House on his visit to Olympia in 1880. As their business blossomed, the Howards purchased the northern half of the Calvin H. and Waitsill Hale land claim along East Bay, including the point of shoreline that locals commonly called ‘Howard Point’ into the 1900s. Frank, the son of Native American Julia Kanim and settler Thomas Glasgow, was adopted by the Howards. Frank married Margaret Lillian Howard in 1881 and they later moved to the East Coast. Rebecca and Alexander Howard continued to invest in real estate and eventually retired to their farm on Howard Point after accumulating a modest fortune. Rebecca Passed away in 1881; Alexander in 1890. The land was later sold.” Interpretive sign at East Bay Dr & Glass Ave, Olympia WA Red Lion Inn & Suites Olympia Governor Hotel--621 Capitol Way South, Olympia, WA 98501 “Our hotel is located on land that has offered lodging to travelers since the 1850s—when Olympia became the capital city of Washington Territory.” The hotel has a corridor of historic photos, beside those in other prominent places. There wasn't much photography going on at the time of the Oregon Trail, but to see more of the fascinating photos, scroll down at the above mentioned post about the PNW Capitals. George and Isabella Bush Homestead Historic Site--1400 85th Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98501 I was too worn out to get out and get better pics, for which I feel very sorry. The site could use a bit of TLC.
Tumwater WA I had a little time on my way back to my hotel in Olympia, from the day spent in Tenino, so I took this little detour, and how glad I am I did! I only wish I'd had more time and knowledge about where to go. More pics of historic Tumwater at my PNW Capitals post mentioned above.
Lacey WA
The Naches Pass Trail was the road considerably less traveled as part of the Oregon Trail, an attempt to make a more direct route from Walla Walla to the Puget Sound area (Steilacoom), via Yakima & Bonney Lake.
We finally got a much anticipated reservation for the Petroglyph tour at Columbia Hills State Park. They start early to beat the heat (9am is early for me when I have a couple hours' drive to get there--we were warned to include extra time for roadwork or other delays). Tours last up to 2 hours, and that left us time to explore more of Maryhill a little further east on Hwy 14. Columbia Hills State Park There are 4 roads off Hwy 14 in the Columbia Hills State Park, listed west to east: 1. Dalles Mtn Ranch--trails, historic buildings, vehicle, fantastic views of Mt Hood on the way back to Hwy 14 2. Columbia Hills Historical State Park/Horsethief Lake--picnic, camp, boat launch, petroglyphs, etc. 3. Horsethief Butte Trailhead--trail & rock climbing, interpretive sign, vault toilet 4. Crawford Oaks Trailhead--trails, sheltered picnic tables, vault toilet Dalles Mtn Ranch Hardly off Hwy 14 a sign announces 3 mi to get to Dalles Mountain Ranch, just as the road turns to dirt/gravel, winding washboards. I kept going and going up into the hills (losing sight of the river and Mt Hood), but when I finally got to a fork in the road, wasn't sure which way to go, and after choosing left (because to the right looked like someone's ranch), I saw another sign for another mile to get somewhere, and I decided it was time and opportunity to turn around. From the map I see if I'd gone a bit further on the right hand of the fork I would have come to the Dalles Mountain Ranch Trailhead. Apparently that ranch is historic, not a currently working one. The excellent views of Mt Hood are breathtaking as you drive back down to Hwy 14. Columbia Hills Historical State Park/Horsethief Lake Family & group friendly place to spend the day(s). Rows of trees planted as windbreaks gives one clue about the area. While the day-use area has green well-watered great grassy areas, the golden hills interrupted by abrupt rocky outcrops give another clue about the climate. It can get very hot. Further down the road from the picnic/campground is the parking for the petroglyphs. There are petroglyphs you can see right by the gravel parking, but if you want to join the ranger-guided tour to see the celebrated "She Who Watches", register ahead early. It's a hike, inaccessible to wheelchairs and perhaps a bit strenuous for those who don't hike regularly. The gravel parking is not wheelchair friendly--the large, rounded rocks are deeply spread. Beyond that parking area, across the RR tracks is a small almost unimproved boat launch (parking not allowed, drive back across the tracks to park). There are pay stations at all the parking areas. More than one ranger assured me that with a handicapped placard/plate there is no parking fee. Horsethief Butte Trailhead Crawford Oaks Trailhead Views from Hwy 14 west of Columbia Hills Historical State Park Maryhill Museum & State Park, and Stonehenge Replica & War Memorial Maryhill Museum of Art--an eclectic collection of the arts and history
A walk east along/above the Columbia River at Maryhill Museum of Art Views and interpretive signs, including info about the region, its history, Native Americans, & Lewis & Clark ... photos courtesy Juli Spruill. Stonehenge Replica, War Memorial "Stonehenge . . . the first monument in our nation to military personel who gace their lies in World War I. Memorializing 13 young Klickitat County men, it also serces as lasting reminder of the works of Samuel Hill, patron of this region. He established a townsite here, with post office, hotel, general store, nearly 10 miles of experimental paved roads, and the Maryhill Museum three miles to the west--all on his own land. His tomb is 50 yards distant, on the opposite side of this monument. "The design duplicates in size and original form England's famous Stonehenge (dated 1900-1350 BC) on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire. When Hill, a Quaker pacifist, bisited England during the 1914-1918 conflict, saw Stonehenge and was told it had been used for human sacrifices to pagan gods, he remarked: "After all our civilization, the flower of humanity still is being sacrificed to the god of war on fields of battle." From that inspiration came this monument, built by Hill. On July 4, 1918 the altar stone was dedicated. The full structure was completed and dedicated May 30, 1929. "Today the sacrifice legend is generally discredited. Current belief is that Stonehenge was a device used by stone-age astronomers to measure time and mark seasons of the year by observing positions of the sun and moon. The diagram at left suggests how the original may have been used by its ingenious builders." Maryhill State Park WA--on the north side of the Columbia River, off Hwy 97 Day-use area has picnic tables & grills, water faucets, restrooms, group picnic shelters, swimming, boating, horseshoes, interpretive signs (including a brief bit about Lewis & Clark, and the Oregon Trail). Campground has group camp, group kitchen, restrooms/showers, water faucets, tent sites (including handicapped) & RV facilities. In season there are generally fruit stands in the area. Biggs OR (not big, basically a pit stop) is just over the river at the intersection of Hwy 97 and I-84, in case you need supplies, or, Goldendale WA is 15 mi north on Hwy 97. Photos courtesy Juli Spruill. Westward Home--what great views of Mt Hood!
photos courtesy Juli Spruill We followed the guidance of the Google Gal, and then the line of cars hoping to find parking at the Northwest Pirate Festival. It was after noon by the time we arrived from the Portland area, so parking was at a premium. We kept asking for disabled parking, and finally a guy showed us a spot through the employee gate where he said we could park. We made a side trip to the restroom, then down the paved road to the gravel parking and gate to the event below. Beside the parking, half the event was graveled with huge cobbles, so that it took vigilance as well as my motor to get me through the least worst parts. We saw some other disabled folk in wheelchairs, some manual, accompanied by care givers. I don't know how they managed. The Northwest Pirate Festival was held at the Thurston County Fairgrounds, 3054 Carpenter Rd SE, Lacey, WA 98503--between Long Lake and Hicks Lake. Long Lake Park is next to the Fairgrounds, Wanschers Park is on the west side of Hicks Lake. Both offer trails & picnicking, swimming offered at Long Lake Park, fishing at Wanschers Park. Woodland Creek Community Park at 6729 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503--west of Carpenter Rd, where you turn off Pacific Ave SE to get to the Fairgrounds--looks like a great family-friendly place with lots of amenities. Just past the entrance to Thurston County Fairgrounds is Boat Launch St, for the boat ramp on Long Lake.
Northwest Pirate Festival, Lacey WA Vendors--period costumes & accoutrements, jewelry & crafts, hair braiding, fortune telling, storytelling, massage on the spot, weaponry . . . and food! Kid Activities The Crow's Nest--pub and performances Bonnie's Roost performers No Quarter Arena--Boom Pirates shows & Raptor Events Pirate Connections at home and abroad I got all enthused about Pirate Food and Pirate stories, and the related topics of ships, the ocean, and other stories of the high seas . . . so here's what we did for the weekend, and some further pursuits: What Did Pirates Eat at Sea?’ What Did Pirates Eat? The difference between a Privateer & a Pirate The romanticization of bad guys, like pirates, highwaymen, the mafia . . . continues . . .
Update 6-15-2023
I attended the Oregon Renaissance Faire on a Pirate themed day (though much of the Faire was similar for all three weekends), see As the fires of 2021 caused havoc with my travel plans, in Klamath Falls I made some adjustments. I found it wasn't that far to drive from there down Hwy 97 to Mt Shasta. Along the way is the terrific Mt. Shasta Vista Point, but as suspected, it was shrouded in smoke. I promised myself I would go see Mt Shasta in 2022 after the clearing of winter snows and before the fire season. To check out Hwy 97 from Klamath Falls OR toward Weed CA, scroll down at The first actual Shakespearean play of the 2022 Oregon Shakespeare Festival season was "The Tempest", June 3, in Ashland OR. Since I was traveling that far, I decided to take in the play as well. I had to get a COVID test (beside my vaccinations) to go to the Shakespeare Festival, so got a late start on Thurs June 2. Then there were other delays. As I came south into the Rogue Valley of Medford OR, I was delighted with the unexpected prospect of Mt McLoughlin. But not being familiar with the area, I couldn't easily find a place to get a good shot of it. I was concerned about getting to Mt Shasta before too late in the evening to spend much time exploring. When I returned north the rain obscured Mt McLouglin. Spring of 2022 was so rainy in Portland metro, I began to worry whether Mt Shasta would be hidden in the clouds. But I was able to get some reasonable photos, even though much of the picturesque snow on the mountain had already melted. In the photos below the temp was 81 degrees at 7pm along I-5 near Yreka CA. City of Mt Shasta CA The town of Mt Shasta is a pretty quaint touristy place, obviously catering to skiers (beside summer recreation), so the sidewalks are not that smooth for rolling along in a wheelchair, and there are RR tracks going through town. Once again I was grateful for an electric chair. I checked into my hotel, and next morning after breakfast toodled around town. Seems like there were plenty of Asian Indian and New Age type shops/restaurants, beside the usual. I forgot my socks, and got some at Ace Hardware. There's a grocery in town and at least a couple pharmacies, quite a few gas stations, etc. if you are in need of anything. Coming into town from the north I detoured to see Mt Shasta City Park. Best Western Plus Tree House, Mt Shasta CA--Lake St just as you come off or on I-5, exit 738 On my previous trip I had noted this hotel boasted mountain views, and I was determined to get one of those rooms. I had to overlook the rooftops from my room, but I could crop those with the processor of my mind. The hotel has some history and lodge-like decor, has been updated to accommodate wheelchairs (though some of the ramps could be challenging for a manual wheelchair without extra power), it's close enough to downtown I could wheel up the street. No complimentary breakfast, restaurant on-site and another across the street. Not far to options for eating. The original Black Bear Diner, 401 W Lake St, Mt Shasta, CA 96067 Weed CA--at the intersection of Hwy 97 and I-5; exits 745 (Vista Drive) and 747 (Main St) off I-5 About 10 mi north of Mt Shasta is Weed CA, with more great views of Mt Shasta, services, and history. Vista Drive is newer development. More historic is Main Street and its vicinity. I didn't take the time to explore Yreka CA on my way north from Mt Shasta CA to Ashland OR, though I wondered if I'd be sorry as I passed by, especially the historic part of town. But you just can't do everything! Nevertheless, I had picked up a card about the Siskiyou Scenic Bicycle Tour that was held in 2022 by the Yreka Rotary Club--drawn to the picture, and thinking they probably have it yearly. The drive north from Mt Shasta CA to Ashland OR had its interests. The Klamath River meets I-5 at about Hornbrook CA, they travel together for a bit, then the Klamath heads west and southwest with Hwy 96 (Klamath River Hwy), and suddenly north again to meet the Pacific Ocean at Klamath CA and the Redwoods. I passed by a hay shelter proclaiming the State of Jefferson just north of Grenada CA. Almost precisely at the CA/OR border the golden browns of the "Golden State" gave way to the forest green timber of Oregon, as the highway climbs up the Siskiyou Mountains to the pass (4 mi north of CA, 4310' above sea level). The lupines along the way were bloomin' beautiful. I noted Canadian truckers in Southern Oregon--I hadn't realized they drove that far south. Ashland OR--77 mi north of Mt Shasta CA The Welcome Center Rest Area off I-5 northbound was unexpected, so sadly I missed it. It's 12 mi north of the CA border. On the map it looks like it could be accessed by other means, but I didn't have the chance to pursue that end. I stayed at the Best Western Windsor Inn, which is an easy off/on I-5, and a quaint and comfortable place to stay. Take exit 14 off I-5 to Ashland St. The BW is to the right (also Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites; use the same exit for Holiday Inn Express & Suites). When you are ready to experience downtown Ashland you can go the other way on Ashland St and take it to Siskiyou Blvd. Siskiyou Blvd is a divided street, northbound on one side and southbound on the other. Traveling north on Siskiyou I passed Southern Oregon University, then Triangle Park (both on the left). Northbound Siskiyou becomes Lithia Way, and Main Street makes another of its mysterious moves by turning east where it butts into southbound Siskiyou. There's a little triangular plaza at that juncture--Ashland has a few triangle-shaped parks/plazas. Ashland Fire & Rescue is on the Lithia Way corner and the Library is on the south going side. Continuing north on Lithia Way, turn right on Pioneer St to access 4 hour public parking. I suggest taking a walk or roll the opposite way on Pioneer Street to Main Street. On Main and Pioneer is the Chamber of Commerce plaza with info, art, maps, & directions. From there you can decide whether to walk/roll Main Street shops, head up the Pioneer St hill to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, or walk opposing traffic toward the Saturday Market on Oak Street, Downtown Plaza (a triangle that Main St encircles), and at the tip where Main St meets Winburn Way is one end of the lovely Lithia Park (100 acres of beauty along Ashland Creek with accessible paths, ponds, playground, picnics, restroom, memorial, bandshell, tennis courts, etc.). Across from that end of Lithia Park is the Lithia Artisans Market (weekends 10-5 Mar-Dec), Calle Guanajuato with its mural, restaurants, and park (also along Ashland Creek). Across the main part of Main St from Calle Guanajuato Park is Bluebird Park (which has stairs down). Note: Siskiyou Blvd and the Main St extension of it are also known as Hwy 99. Caution: the steps up to the Library are a clue that from that side of Main St west is a strenuous uphill push. Lithia Park & Calle Guanajuato Park--not to be missed if you are in Ashland OR Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland OR I called and got specific instructions for handicapped parking. When I got in line they were so quick to bring me in that I didn't have time to get daylight pictures of the plaza. No photos were allowed in the theater even before the play started. It was a rather rainy night I saw "The Tempest", seated under the balcony feeling bad for the actors. I brought something for my legs, however I should have dressed a little more warmly. The company put on a good production. Only 3 of the actors seemed like they were giving speeches, 2 of those with very limited parts. I wished I could have seen "Once on This Island" (Haitian culture) as well, but because of COVID it would only have been like a concert, and I needed to be on the road anyway. Best Western Windsor Inn, 2520 Ashland St, Ashland, OR 97520 Quaint architecture, landscaping, and decor befitting the Shakespeare Festival. Staff was friendly and helpful. I reserved a 2 queen ADA room. I did have to have a guy close the curtains, which were behind furniture, take out a couple extra non-essential pieces (ottomans) that were blocking access to the sink, and set the hand-held shower within reach. The complimentary breakfast ended so early I missed it. I suspect they end it early to encourage patronage of the restaurant on-site. I was ok with that, except that I wanted to be able to review their complimentary breakfast. The ramp from the handy handicapped parking spot onto the sidewalk was a little tricky in a wheelchair because of complex slopes. During the busy season I understand parking is really at a premium. Oaktree Northwest Bar & Grill, 2510 Ashland St, Ashland, OR 97520, by BW Windsor Inn The decor and menu was so similar to the Black Bear Diner I had just eaten at that I asked if they were affiliated. No. If there's comfort food there surely must be comfort places to obtain it, and this was one of those. The food was good, too. I took it to go, as I had a long way to go. I treated myself to desserts, eating half and saving half, almost forgot to take a photo. Garfield Park and Science Works, Ashland OR As the Google Gal guided me on the scenic route from Ashland City to my hotel via Main St, I noticed these two intriguing places.
Central Point OR--exit 33, Pine St On the way home, north on I-5, I took exit 33 in an effort to scope out possible views of Mt McLoughlin, to the east. It was a rainy day, so of course I couldn't see Mt McLoughlin, but on the east side of I-5 is the Jackson County fairgrounds which has a large area free of trees, and on the west side is Mountain View Plaza--which seems promising. Other points of interest in the area on the map to the east: Agate Lake County Park, Southern Oregon Speedway, and Prescott Park. Central Point is at the north end of Medford (with all its amenities), so only 10-12 mi north of Ashland OR.
Gold Hill OR--14 mi, 20 min northwest of Medford on I-5; map says its only 1/2 hr to Shady Cove OR via Hwy 234 and Hwy 62, 2.5-3 hrs to Crater Lake depending on route. Another place I hoped to check out on my way was Gold Hill. It just happened to be their Gold Dust Days celebration (1st Sat June), coming to a close by the time I got there, perhaps in part because it was rainy. After exiting for Gold Hill from I-5 going north on the Access Rd, take Lampman Rd to the left to reach Ben Hur Lampman Park; go south on the Access Rd to Rogue Valley Zipline Adventures, and Laurel Hill Golf Course. Rogue Rafting Co is at 404 2nd Ave. Fishing Oregon Guide Service is north of Hwy 99/Blackwell Rd at 207 Upper River Rd; continue north on Upper River Rd to Gold Hill Whitewater Center. East of town on 2nd Ave/Hwy 99/Blackwell Rd is a KOA. Gold Hill Sports Park is not far up the hill on Hwy 234, and it's not too much further up Hwy 234 to Tilomikh Falls, and a little beyond that to Gold Nugget Wayside and Dillon Falls. Somewhat further up Hwy 234 (Sams Valley Hwy) is the Dodge Bridge county park, with accessible restroom, parking, and fishing platform. This is not an exhaustive list, but a fair taste of Gold Hill adventures.
Valley of the Rogue State Park--abt 10 min, 6 mi west of Gold Hill OR; 17 min, 11 mi east of Grants Pass The Applegate Trail pavilion in the day-use area of Valley of the Rogue State Park
I really wanted to make this stop for the connection to the Oregon Trail, which I intend to add part 2, maybe 3, July 2022. Part 1 at “Wanna get Mexican?” somebody suggests in the family, or at the office, when everybody’s hungry and wants something quick & easy (quick & easy for the diners, not necessarily for the cook), and usually not expensive for a filling meal. From Taco Tuesday, to TexMex, CalMex . . . we often think of Latinos as specifically Mexicans/Mexican Americans. And Hispanics from Mexico have become such a major influence in our culture that we take them for granted. But more and more Latin American foods are being introduced to the Pacific Northwest, in fact, all of the United States (maybe as much or moreso in the Eastern US . . . remember “Westside Story”?) For a comparison of TexMex and CalMex, see In 2021-22 I got enthused about exploring all kinds of Hispanic influences in the US. Here are some Latino flavors I found around Portland and other cities in the Pacific Northwest. Below that are other cultural influences that have become an integral part of US society. Portland Mercado--a variety of food carts from Latin America, 7238 SE Foster Rd, Portland OR. Picnic tables, including accessible ones, store & restrooms. There's a roof over the picnic tables, but it's high, so you might still get sprizzled in the wind. Some parking in the rear--one day I went it was totally full, another day there was plenty of room. I suspect it has to do with the weather. There's a stage, as well, indicating events might happen there, and the bus has a stop there. List of countries in Latin America
Foods, national dishes of Latin America Argentina--Alecocina, at Portland Mercado, 7238 SE Foster Rd, Portland OR.
Belize--Love Belizean, 1503 SW Broadway, by PSU on a pretty steep hill for a manual wheelchair, M-F til 3pm, except if they run out of food—we got there at 10 min ‘til 3 and they were closed ☹, another try they were closed mid-day, but I ate there 2-3 years ago, and it was very good and not expensive; (503) 421-5599 Bolivia, Chile, & Peru--quinoa Quinoa "originated with the Incas in the mountains of Bolivia, Chile and Peru. It’s been at the forefront in these regions for 5,000 years." Brazil--Fogo de Chao, 930 SW 6th Ave, Portland OR-- downtown Portland Serves a variety of meats brought hot on swords to your table by gaucho-dressed waiters, plus a superior salad/antipasto bar and desserts. Not inexpensive. https://fogodechao.com/menu/?location=70 Chile--LeChon, 113 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204, across from Tom McCall Park; "Vibrant, rustic-chic haunt offering creative South American meals, happy hours & a tapas menu"--Google maps; small place in a big beautiful, historic building. Booths & barstools, but they managed to find a place I could sit in a wheelchair. Columbia--Que Bacano!, at Portland Mercado, 7238 SE Foster Rd, Portland OR. My Spanish and his English were somewhat lacking, but we managed to communicate, and the food and the service were very good.
Costa Rica--La Carreta Pura Vida, at Portland Mercado 7238 SE Foster Road, Portland OR I've never really cared for tamales, but this place could make a believer out of me! I just had to go back and sample the other delish dishes. Cuba--Pambiche, Cuban restaurant at 2811 NE Glisan St, Portland, OR 97232; Excellent food, great decor, somewhat tight quarters inside, outdoor dining with fires (inaccessible for a wheelchair), entrance step bridged with a steep portable ramp for me (requires a helper), friendly patient staff. El Salvador--La Puerta: Killingsworth Station Food Cart Pod, 1331 N Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97217 Killingsworth Station Food Cart Pod has a number of food trucks with a variety of foods, including Salvadoran, Mexican, BBQ, Jewish, Mardi Gras beignets, Polish, etc. Not all are open all the time. There are covered picnic tables; get a key to the restroom from vendor. Extremely limited street parking, though if you contact any of the vendors ahead (better to text or order online than to call), you may park very briefly to pick up your food in the striped lines around the corner off N Maryland Ave. Steep incline from the sidewalks for a wheelchair.
Haiti—homemade Joumou My humble effort at left. Recipes & History of Joumou Honduras--Sabor Catracho, 742 NE 18125 Ave, Portland OR (Gresham) I was forewarned this place is difficult to find and not really clearly signed. It was still hard to know if I was in the right place, a shopping strip next to Habitat for Humanity Restore, across from Gresham Police Rockwood station. It's a tiny place, partly restaurant & partly store, offering both Honduran and Mexican dishes. The young man at the counter struggled with English, but had tools to help with communication. He and the customers were so kind and helpful, accommodating for my wheelchair and language limitations. Delicious food, even if not very diabetic friendly. I got one meal to eat there, and one to go for later. Very filling. Mexico Provecho, Vancouver WA, scroll below to "Oct 31--Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)--Vancouver WA"
El Sombrero, Mexican Restaurant, Sandy Blvd, Portland OR In early December of 2021 I went to The Grotto in Portland, and chose to pick up food curbside from El Sombrero, not terribly far away by car. The man was friendly and accommodating, as I was too worn out to go inside to get the food. https://www.elsombreropdx.com/ Las Flamas, Mexican restaurant, Vancouver WA Handicapped parking on the west side. Rather a narrow walk for a wheelchair, but do-able. Great food & decor. Peru--Salt & Pepper, Peruvian food cart, 2623 SE Belmont St, Portland OR M-Sun 10-10pm (503) 757-9442 We arrived about 11am when traffic was light (but parking can be a challenge in this neighborhood--after going around the block on narrow streets filled with cars parked on either side, we were fortunate that a couple cars just across the street from our destiny moved, and we were able to park along the street with room for my ramp to roll out). I had a time (as I always do) choosing between tantalizing menu items. Philippines—homemade holiday While the Philippines are not exactly Latin American, they definitely have Hispanic History as well as American history and culture (both in the US and Philippines). I decided to do Filipino food for Christmas Eve (Nochebuena), and discovered too late that you must order it way ahead if you want someone else to prepare it. So, I forged my way forward (or backward?) to try some Filipino recipes. Fotos follow: Uruguay--PDX Emanadas food truck, Portland Saturday market, Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Portland OR alfajores--"traditional confection found in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, the Philippines, Southern Brazil, Southern France, Spain, Uruguay, and Venezuela" Wikipedia; the vendor warned me the alfajores (cookie sandwich) was delicate--I daren't unwrap for the photo, so it doesn't show very well. Venezuela--La Arepa, Carts on Foster, 5205 SE Foster Rd (enter SE 52nd Ave & Rhone St), Portland, OR 97206: Pabellon empanada/arepa--deep fried cornmeal pocket stuffed with shredded beef, fried plantain, black beans, and grated white cotija cheese. Quesillo, traditional Venezuelan dessert similar to flan. Like much of Latino food, not great for a diabetic, no matter how tasty!) Very limited, street parking.
Portland Art Museum—1219 SW Park Ave, Portland OR In Feb of 2022 the much anticipated exhibit of Mexican Modernism opened, and we went to see it. Oregon Historical Society Museum—1200 SW Park Ave, Portland OR (across the park from Portland Art Museum) I didn't see much about Latinos at the Oregon Historical Society Museum when I was there (which surprised me, because there are half again as many Hispanics in Oregon as Blacks by percentage, according to the 2020 census), but online I found this resource: Latinos in Oregon, Oregon Encyclopedia: A Project of the Oregon Historical Society Washington State History Museum, 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402 The Hispanic exhibit showing in late May of 2022 was not large, and mostly photos and words on the wall (too small to see in this post) about agricultural work. Text was in both English and Spanish. There was a slide show about Mexican family experiences that super-imposed each photo on top of the previous. Very interesting perspectives, but difficult to show here. The show was a collaboration with the University of Washington.
Pasco WA (and a Richland Mexican Restaurant near my hotel) I didn't have much time to explore Pasco, other than Sacajawea State Park, part of my Sacajawea Trail post, but noted a lot of Hispanic businesses in the area. If I could spend more time there, I would wander about in wonder, and try lots of Mexican restaurants and groceries! I was intrigued by Fiesta Mexican Restaurant while I was staying close by in Richland, Aug 2022, and gave it a try. US Census article about Hispanic home life US Census estimates Pasco may have as high as 56% Hispanic/Latino population. Basque Heritage, Boise ID & Ontario OR Basque Museum, Boise ID
Hispanic/Latino Holidays
2021-2022 Latino Celebrations Jan 1--New Year's Day--Haitian Independence, Joumou soup
Jan 6--Dia de los Reyes (3 Kings Day/Epiphany)--Rosca de Reyes
Feb 2--Dia de la Candelaria/Candlemas--tamales, candles
Mar 1--Carnival (Mardi Gras)--Brazil & New Orleans (at one time under Spanish rule) Mardi Gras around the world, word document Mar 2--Ash Wednesday, beginning of Lent Apr 10 through 17--Holy Week "Since the dietary restrictions of Lent are in effect the days before Easter, food can include, depending on what part of the country you are in, cheese pambazos (a Mexican white bread), fried fish, plantain dishes, tamarind and fruit." https://www.mexpro.com/blog/semana-santa-holy-week-mexico-celebrate/ See also For my Easter week I had hoped to get lamb skewers at Andina in Portland OR, but that didn't work out. I ordered the lamb dish from Salt & Pepper, the Peruvian food cart shown above. For Maundy Thursday/Passover/Pascua(Easter) I prepared a plate that one could say had some elements related to Latin cultures. At Pambiche, the Cuban restaurant above, I enjoyed fish in a coconut milk sauce. Additionally, I found and prepared Chilean sea bass from Uruguay to celebrate Good Friday. May 5--Cinco de Mayo celebration in Sunnyside WA, May 6-8, 2022 Since Portland (OR) wasn't having a Cinco de Mayo celebration this year, I had to look far and wide to find one. Sunnyside is about 3 hours from Portland when conditions are right, but between rain and roadwork, it took me 4 hours. I traveled Hwy 14 east, north on Hwy 97 (from Maryhill), turned east at Toppenish and (with some adapting) drove Hwy 82 to Sunnyside. The rainy side of the Columbia Gorge was crowded with little fishing boats, despite the rain (and some were still there or just leaving as I came back through after 10pm in the dark!). Hwy 97 goes over the hills so it rained again--it's a pretty drive, though plenty of fire damage yet standing. Toppenish and Granger were intriguing, but I daren't divert myself until the way home (more about Hwy 97 in a future post). The carnival was set up (between 4th & 5th, Edison & Grant; vendors on 6th and around the corner by the Safeway). It hadn't really got started, and I expect celebrations would get more lively later in the evening (as people got home from school and work, and probably quite a few travel from other towns of the Yakima Valley). Saturday and Sunday had performers staged and more activities planned, but I couldn't stay. I explored a little around town, then Granger (dinosaurs), and Toppenish (lots of cool murals), and got home about 11 hours from when I started out. Long day, but I was so glad I went and explored new territory. 2023 Portland OR Cinco de Mayo celebration Sept 16--Mexican Independence--Ontario OR Hispanic Heritage Month US Census article for 2022 Hispanic Heritage Month, including Hispanic population statsHispanic population chart, by state"How to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month 2021 in Portland - EverOut Portland"
Children's Books for Hispanic Heritage Month--check your local library for these and/or others Oct 31--Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)--Vancouver WA (Oct 30) 2021 Dec 4--Advent--the Grotto; NE 85th Avenue & Sandy Blvd, Portland OR I visited the Grotto early December of 2021, and counted that for all the Latino/Hispanic holidays of December (most of Latin America as well as Hispanics around the world are Catholic; much of the Christian world also celebrate at least some of those religious holidays), since I couldn't find any other venues that were offering those celebrations, due to COVID-19 restrictions. Also, scroll way down at Dec 12--Virgin of Guadalupe Dec 16-24--Los Posadas Dec 24--Nochebuena Filipino Nochebuena—Christmas Eve; photos above at "Philippines—homemade holiday"
In many ways the experience of Japanese Americans must have been a juxtaposition of cultures such as is playfully depicted in “Flower Drum Song . . . the eighth musical by the team of Rodgers and Hammerstein. It is based on the 1957 novel, The Flower Drum Song, by Chinese-American author C. Y. Lee. It premiered on Broadway in 1958 and was then performed in the West End and on tour. It was adapted for a 1961 musical film,” [Wikipedia] except that many Americans held lingering vindictive attitudes because of the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the late war with Japan--even though Japanese Americans had no part in the attack, were good citizens, and many joined the United States military and fought valiantly and loyally for their country: America. Traveling Tastefully
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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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