In the heart of the Pacific Northwest, where nature’s magnificence unfolds in all its splendor, lies the Columbia River Gorge, a region adorned with majestic waterfalls, lush forests, and breathtaking vistas. For us, Brian, Hannah, and our ever-enthusiastic canine companion, Roadie, it was an ordinary Fourth of July that turned into an extraordinary adventure. Living our nomadic dream in a cozy camper, we set our sights on a 13-mile hike along the iconic Eagle Creek Trail, leading us to one of the region’s most enchanting wonders – Tunnel Falls.
The Challenging Hike:
We set out on an epic 13-mile round-trip hike along the Eagle Creek Trail early in the morning. The trail was nice and cool until the mid-day sun the scorching Fourth of July sun, with temperatures soaring to a staggering 92 degrees Fahrenheit, took over. As we traversed the trail, we encountered numerous stretches that exposed us to the relentless sun. The heat made our furry companion, Roadie, uncomfortable, especially with the scorching ground beneath his paws. We had to be mindful of shaded areas and frequently stopped at the tranquil creeks along the way to provide relief for him. We ourselves sought respite from the heat by dipping our hats and shirts into the refreshing creek water, embracing the opportunity to cool down.
The Trail’s Resilient Beauty:
Despite the remnants of the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire, which left visible traces of burned trees and increased sun exposure, the Columbia River Gorge area remained a breathtaking sight to behold. The trail was adorned with lush ferns, vibrant green moss, and a tapestry of plant life, creating a captivating and picturesque environment. The presence of ferns and moss, seemingly cloaking every surface, added to the dreamlike ambiance of the hike, making it an ethereal experience.
Small Detour:
The allure of the Eagle Creek Trail extended beyond Tunnel Falls. We hiked down to the Lower Punch Bowl Falls, descending 300 feet into the gorge to see what we could see. It was a nice little waterfall. I hopped from rock to rock to get to the center of the top for a better view. We didn’t walk up the creek to the upper Punch Bowl Falls though as it was still early morning and we weren’t ready to get wet. So we marveled at its grandeur from afar, taking in its circular amphitheater and the mesmerizing pool below.
The Magnificence of Tunnel Falls:
Finally, we arrived at our ultimate destination—the breathtaking Tunnel Falls. As the name suggests, this colossal waterfall grants passage through a tunnel behind its cascading curtain of water. Venturing through the tunnel, we were enveloped in a world of wonder. Lush ferns and delicate moss adorned the surrounding walls, heightening the ethereal atmosphere and inviting us to immerse ourselves in nature’s embrace.
An Oasis of Invigorating Bliss:
As we neared the trail’s end, just above Twister Falls, an unexpected surprise awaited us – a natural pool of ice-cold water nestled in the heart of the wilderness. Undeterred by the chill, we couldn’t resist the allure of this refreshing oasis. Donning our bathing suits with enthusiasm, we decided to embrace the invigorating challenge. Roadie, ever the adventure-seeker, joined in our excitement, his tail wagging with pure joy. The icy waters embraced us, sending shivers down our spines, but the thrill of the moment was simply too irresistible. Surrounded by nature’s enchanting beauty, we laughed, splashed, and created memories that would forever warm our hearts, even in the coldest of winters.
A Culinary Interlude:
In addition to swimming, we took advantage of the idyllic setting to pause and enjoy a delightful meal. Resting beside the pool, we indulged in the simple pleasure of savoring food amidst nature’s splendor. The sounds of cascading water and the rustle of leaves provided a soothing soundtrack to our feast, enhancing the already magical atmosphere.
Thrills and Adrenaline:
True to our adventurous spirit, I seized the opportunity to add an extra dash of excitement to our hike. Near the 4.5-mile bridge, he fearlessly leaped off a small cliff, soaring through the air momentarily before plunging into the cool depths below. It was an adrenaline-pumping moment that injected an extra surge of exhilaration into our already unforgettable day.
Conclusion:
Our adventure along the Eagle Creek Trail to Tunnel Falls and beyond was a remarkable journey filled with both challenges and unforgettable moments. The scorching heat, burned trees, and demanding terrain were testament to the trail’s resilience and the enduring beauty of the Columbia River Gorge. As we bid farewell to this awe-inspiring destination, we carried with us a sense of wonder and gratitude for the natural wonders that grace our planet.
Stay tuned for more captivating escapades as we continue our nomadic lifestyle, exploring the diverse landscapes of this beautiful country with Roadie as our loyal companion. Until next time, keep exploring, embracing adventure, and savoring every moment of your own remarkable journeys.
