McKenzie River Trip

This past weekend we were invited to come along on a camping trip by the Mckenzie river. Our friend's JD and Liz have been going for several years. The main goal of the trip is to go on an amazing 20 mile mt bike ride along the Mckenzie river that ends at Belknap hot springs. Along this ride is amazing views of Clear Lake, waterfalls, volcanic rock fields, and beautiful blue pools of water that are so crystal clear. The first night we camped at a place called Trailbridge campground. JD and Liz met up with us for the first night. We survived the frigid temperatures and rain by sitting in our camper till Meadow went to bed and then built a campfire so we could hang out and chat.

The next day, Liz, Meadow and I went on a beautiful hike around Clear Lake and Todd and JD did part of the mt. bike ride. We enjoyed the hot springs in the evening before heading back to the house that some other friend's, Tanya and Erik had rented for the weekend. Tanya and Erik have a four week old baby named Jack. I wish I had taken some cute pics of Meadow chatting with Jack. It was nice to have a house to utilize for cooking and hanging out in because it was a bit cold the next night as well. We were able to plug our camper in at an rv site and were nice and cozy with our heater on that night.

Our last day, Liz offered to watch Meadow for us so we could go on the ride together. Liz had shoulder surgery a few weeks back so she was still not able to mt. bike. At times, the ride was a bit over my head so I had to walk a bit and experienced some not so fun falls unto volcanic rock. But, I did enjoy the scenery and in the end, it was a beautiful day and I am glad I had the opportunity to experience the diverse geoligical landscape. It was a great weekend and I am already excited for next year's trip.

JD giving Meadow an airplane ride

Sahalie Falls

Meadow and I at Clear Lake

Self Portait of Liz and I
The "Fam" at Belknap Hot Springs
Todd and JD
Meadow loves to give high 5's
Camping the first night. We stayed in the camper on top of the hill

Todd and JD in their fashionable mt bike clothing and gear The beautiful fall foliage at Clear Lake.

Meadow is very excited because she can face forward now. She has hit the 20 pound mark with her clothes on. Go Meadow!

More camping pics
Liz and JD

Camping in October. It felt more like December. Note the winter jacket and pants. We were highly prepared for the cold weather. Once Meadow learned that her gloves really keep her hands warm, she was a lot happier. Meadow had a great time camping, as usual. She loves the outdoors and gets pretty grumpy when she has to stay indoors. I guess she is related to us so it does make sense.We were so glad the rain stopped so we could go outside and play.