The hikes around Steens Mountain were unlike anything I had experienced before. Every trail seemed to offer a completely different adventure, from free flowing rivers to colorful wildflower-covered meadows to rocky overlooks with endless views stretching across the high desert.
Besides the hikes along flowing streams, I was able to explore the true outback of my state.
. Endless fields of sagebrush, remote gorges carved into the landscape, and sweeping views partially hidden by wildfire smoke were all part of this adventure.
Even with the smoky skies, every mile was worth it a reminder that sometimes the most unforgettable places are the ones that require a little extra effort to reach.
Finally, after all the exploring, I made it to the top of Steens Mountain! The sky is so clear, yep that's right we are above the wildfire smoke. Crazy eh?
The views were incredible, but the real surprise was the wildflowers this week they were absolutely perfect.
Colorful blooms covered the landscape, adding little splashes of life to the rugged mountain scenery. Standing up there surrounded by flowers, endless views, and the quiet of the high desert felt like a moment frozen in time. The pictures really don't do it justice; there was something magical about being there in person, taking in the scale, colors, and beauty of this incredible place.
The goal of this adventure was to explore the rugged beauty of Steens Mountain and spend the night at the historic Frenchglen Hotel. Rising nearly a mile above the surrounding high desert, Steens Mountain is famous for its breathtaking views, deep glacial gorges, wildflowers, and roaming wildlife.
At the foot of the mountain sits the charming Frenchglen Hotel, a beautifully preserved 1917 inn where travelers can experience a slower pace of life and a taste of Oregon's ranching history. I couldn't think of a better base camp for a little fox-sized adventure into one of the wildest and most remote corners of the state.
Speaking of historic buildings, I also made a stop at the Riddle Ranch tucked away on Steens Mountain. Built by the Riddle family in the early 1900s.
This remote homestead tells the story of the determined ranchers who carved out a life in one of Oregon's most rugged landscapes.
Walking inside the old buildings, I could almost imagine the families, horses, and livestock that once made this lonely corner of the mountain their home.
A Little Side Note from My Archaeology Studies: I’m still working on my archaeology degree, and I think this visit to Riddle Ranch might earn me a pretty good grade in my imaginary Archaeology 302: Old Buildings of the West class. Exploring century-old buildings, studying weathered wood, and imagining the stories behind every board felt like the perfect field assignment.
I may not have had a shovel or official archaeology degree, but I definitely gathered enough notes for my little fox field report!
I've done my fair share of exploring Oregon but the farther you drive into southeastern Oregon, the fewer people you see. Towns became tiny dots on the map, cell service fades away, and the wide-open high desert stretched to the horizon in every direction. The first rule about travel in SE Oregon is always have a full tank of gas.
This is one of the most remote corners of Oregon—a place where sagebrush, mountains, and endless skies replace traffic lights and shopping centers. It felt like the perfect place for a little fox-sized adventure.
Myfirst stop was Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, an oasis in the middle of the desert. It seemed almost magical that such a lush wetland could exist among miles of dry sagebrush.
As soon as I hopped out of the car, I was greeted by a chorus of birdsong. Everywhere I looked there were birds calling to one another, flitting through the reeds, gliding across ponds, or circling overhead. It was impossible not to stop every few steps just to listen.
This place was awesome, and if you haven't been to Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, you really should! Being a curious little fox, I looked up the history behind the name "Malheur" and found out it means "misfortune" in French. Back in the 1820s, Hudson's Bay Company fur traders led by Peter Skene Ogden were disappointed that the area had very few fur-bearing animals to trap. Ogden named the lake "Malheur" to remember their bad luck. Lucky for us, what was once a disappointment for trappers is now one of Oregon's most amazing places to explore!
Today my roommates took me to visit mighty Mount St. Helens, known long before that name as Loowit by the Native peoples who have lived in its shadow for countless generations.
Standing here, it's easy to understand why this mountain has inspired both legends and respect, with its rugged beauty and powerful history. Even today, the landscape is still flexing it's power.
A few years ago the bridge to the Johnston Ridge Visitors Center washed out and it's still being repaired. Never fear, this fox found a trail to the visitors center.
Speaking of history, you might remember what happened in May 1980, when Mount St. Helens erupted with incredible force and forever changed the surrounding landscape.
Even today, it's amazing to see how nature has recovered while still leaving behind unmistakable reminders of one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in U.S. history. The forest service decided not to touch anything after the eruption to see what would happen.
Wildflowers are out today.
Always a sucker for foxglove. Such a cool plant.
Part of the trail featured interpretive signs that explained the area's fascinating geologic history. Some had faded from years of sun exposure, but they still told an interesting story about the powerful forces that shaped Loowit and the ever-changing landscape around it.
As the hike continued, more and more wildflowers appeared along the trail, adding bright splashes of color to the volcanic landscape. One thing I couldn't help noticing was how many dandelions had taken over—hardy little plants that seemed perfectly happy to thrive where so much else was still recovering.
Now, back to that landslide that wiped out the bridge. These days, Johnston Ridge Observatory can only be reached on foot, since the road has never been fully rebuilt. Do you see it way up on the left-hand side? And that big mountain rising in the distance is Mount Adams, another mighty volcano in the Cascade Range.
Finally, it was time for lunch—a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. We had the amphitheater all to ourselves, with only a few other hearty souls making the journey up here today. Between the peaceful surroundings and the incredible mountain views, it was the perfect place to sit, relax, and enjoy a well-earned meal.
Johnston Ridge's parking lot was a little eerie. After sitting unused for about three years, it showed clear signs of neglect, and it almost looked as though nature was slowly reclaiming it.....which, I suppose, is rather fitting for a place like this.
Fortunately, there are plans to reopen the road next May, so this visit will definitely go in the memory books as something unique: not just because of the spectacular wildflowers, but because of the rare silence that settled over the monument without the usual hordes of visitors.
Today I traded city streets for the quiet charm of Sonoma, California. While Napa is famous for its vineyards, Sonoma has a slower pace that made me feel right at home.
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Our first stop was the historic Sonoma Plaza, where we found a giant bear standing proudly in the middle of town. It wasn't a real bear, of course, but a reminder of the short-lived California Republic of 1846. For just 25 days, California was an independent nation before becoming part of the United States.
The bear on the California state flag traces its roots back to this fascinating chapter of history, known as the Bear Flag Revolt. It was fun imagining what the plaza must have looked like during those exciting and uncertain days.
Just a short walk away stood one of Sonoma's most important landmarks—the historic Sonoma Mission. Officially known as Mission San Francisco Solano, it was the last and northernmost of California's 21 Spanish missions.
A little tipsy from some wine tasting but being beary respectful in the mission.
Walking through the adobe buildings and peaceful courtyard, I couldn't help but think about the many people whose lives crossed paths here over the centuries. I was especially interested in the servants' quarters, where the mission's workers lived and carried out many of the daily tasks that kept the community running. It offered a glimpse into the everyday lives of the people whose stories are often overshadowed by the mission itself. The simple architecture and quiet gardens created a peaceful atmosphere, making it easy to slow down and reflect on the mission's long and sometimes complicated history.
Nearby was the mission's hospice, which served as a simple hotel where travelers could find a place to stay and a warm meal, while also helping provide food for residents of the mission community.
Before leaving, I spent a little more time wandering around Sonoma's historic plaza. The town has a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere, with locally owned shops, cozy cafés, and an impressive art scene. As you might have guessed this painting really called spoke to me.
No trip to San Francisco would be complete without a visit to Alcatraz Island. Before catching the ferry, we drove across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. I'd seen countless pictures of it over the years, but nothing compares to seeing those towering International Orange spans rising above the bay in person. Even with the fog rolling in and out, the bridge was every bit as impressive as I'd imagined.
Next stop is the rock, that's right Alcatraz Island. I'm reviewing the model at the ferry terminal before departure. A prepared fox is a happy fox.
After boarding the ferry, I watched the city skyline slowly drift farther away as the island grew larger in front of us. It wasn't hard to imagine what it must have felt like for the prisoners who made this same journey decades ago. The views were spectacular, but for them, they represented everything they were leaving behind.
Stepping onto the island, I was surprised by how beautiful it was. G It was a strange contrast—a place known for its harsh history surrounded by incredible views of San Francisco Bay.
Gardens filled with colorful flowers softened the stark concrete buildings, and seabirds circled overhead.
The seabirds had their chicks recently and they were all out and about on the island. These little chicks will one day grow probably grow up to be western gulls often seen on Alcatraz.
Time to explore inside.
Inside the prison, the atmosphere changed completely. Walking through the cell blocks, I saw just how small the cells were. Standing inside one made it easy to picture what daily life must have been like. The walls echoed with stories of infamous inmates, daring escape attempts, and the routines that governed life on "The Rock."
As the ferry carried us back toward the city, I kept looking over my shoulder at the island. Alcatraz is much more than an old prison. It's a place filled with history, mystery, and unforgettable views—one that left me with plenty to think about long after we returned to shore.
Usually my adventures start off with a walk or a hike.
However, being in Napa California my adventure began in a way that felt just about perfect: on two wheels.
The bike paths wound past vineyards that seemed to stretch forever. Neat rows of grapevines marched across the hillsides, soaking up the warm California sunshine.
After our bike ride, we headed over to the botanical garden to see what we could discover.
I expected beautiful flowers, towering trees, and maybe a few butterflies. I wasn't expecting to stumble upon a whole collection of colorful mythical creatures!
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