Hiking on Cape Horn
February 17, 2007

Matthew and I went up the northern (Vancouver, WA) side of the Columbia River gorge for a short (about 2 miles each way) hike up a steep trail that led to a bluff overlooking the promontory known as Cape Horn. The day was sunny and unusually warm - we were in our long sleeved t shirts. Until our last hike a couple of weeks ago, we frequented the trails on the southern side of the river, where the winter sun doesn't shine and the trails tend to be shady and dark.

This outing was great because we walked in the sun. When we came up out of the woods and on to the bluff, the view was breathtaking. The river shone silver in the late winter sun. I felt like I could sit there in the grass all day and just admire the view.


The trail was steep and I've been having complaints from the tendons around my knees when going down hill. I keep telling Matthew he's going to have to carry me. He recommended trekking poles for extra stability and support. I tried his and it really helped, so now I have a pair of my own.


I also learned that having the right support can take the pressure off of those ligaments and tendons that are getting irritated. Gary referred me to an athletic shoe store where they would help me pick out the right shoes. I wore my new shoes on this hike and I was able to climb back down two miles of very steep trail with only minor discomfort the last 1/4 mile or so. I'm so relieved to find that my problem is correctable - and I'll be able to hike further and see what's around the next bend.

Here's the photo album.