January 3, 2020 – Our first hike of the New Year was to Hamilton Mountain in Beacon Rock State Park on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge. We’ve been many times, usually to see the cliffs become hanging gardens in the spring. Today we had perfect winter hiking conditions – not too cold, a bit muddy, full waterfalls, clear views from the top.
The first summit of Hamilton Mountain, as seen from the power line cut on the lower trail.
Approaching the upper cliffs, eastern gorge beyond.
Bonneville Dam, with Mt Hood appearing to the south.
First view from the summit- Mt Adams glowing in winter white beyond Table Mountain.
Wide view from the summit.
Mt Hood to the south, in low winter light.
After lunch at the summit we continued the trail to the northern saddle/plateau –
A last look back at Mt Hood.
Western gorge, filling with mist and a painterly sky.
Columbian lewisia foliage in the saddle.
Crossing over a very full Rodney Falls on the return hike.
Hike #1 for 2020, 8.2 miles, 2250 feet.
Knitting
First knit finish in 2020 – traveling socks that I started last May.
Margaret Quilts 
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