You can find every element of nature to satisfy your need to retreat to mother earth in the Pacific Northwest. Portland, Oregon comes to mind for its majestic Rose Garden among the well known Forest Park cutout with numerous trails for mountain bikes and hikers from novice to expert. What car? You don’t need one here. A brisk 10 minute walk and you are in the bustling downtown Portland mosaic with coffee houses, outdoor concerts and friendly “Hellos” from strangers.Get your backpack and gear together. Make sure you have a working compass, warm clothing depending on the time of year. You'll need a good set of hiking boots or a very comfortable slid resistant and water repellant shoe and a wind and water resistant light jacket. Dressing in layers would be a very good choice. In any event check your weather and head off to some of the most magnificent waterfalls where backpacking is taken to a whole other level. Talk about beauty. There is the Bridal Veil Falls, Multnomah Falls, Lower Multnomah Falls, and Double Falls just for starters. Choose one. You will be renewed and refreshed upon your return home and just maybe a bit tired. Don’t forget your compass.
