Author: gabby

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

If you’re looking to go waterfall hiking in the gorge in Oregon, you’re in for a treat! The gorge is home to numerous breathtaking waterfalls, ranging from tall and powerful to small and serene. Here are a few things you’ll want to know before you hit the trails:

• Bring plenty of water: The gorge can get quite hot in the summer, so be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. You’ll also want to bring sunscreen, a hat, and other protective gear to keep yourself safe from the sun.
• Wear good hiking shoes: Many of the trails in the gorge are rocky or slippery, so it’s important to have a good pair of hiking shoes with good grip and support.
• Know your limits: There are trails of all difficulty levels in the gorge, so be sure to choose a trail that is appropriate for your skill level. If you’re not an experienced hiker, it’s a good idea to stick to the easier trails.
• Stay on the trails: The gorge is home to a variety of plant and animal life, so it’s important to stay on the designated trails to avoid damaging the ecosystem.
• Be prepared for crowds: The gorge is a popular destination for hikers, so you may encounter crowds on the trails. Be prepared to share the trails and be patient if you have to wait your turn to take a photo.

Waterfall hiking in the gorge is a truly unforgettable experience. With its stunning beauty and variety of trails, it’s a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Gorge.

There are many beautiful waterfalls in the gorge near Portland, Oregon. Some popular ones to visit include:

1. Multnomah Falls: This is the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest, with a spectacular 620-foot tall waterfall. The falls are accessible from I-84 and are just a 30 minute drive from Portland.

2. Horsetail Falls: This waterfall is located on the Columbia River Highway, about a 45 minute drive from Portland. It’s a short hike to the falls and offers great views of the gorge.

3. Latourell Falls: Located in Guy W. Talbot State Park, these falls are about a 40 minute drive from Portland. The falls are 249 feet tall and there is a short hike to the base of the falls.

4. Wahkeena Falls: This waterfall is located on the Columbia River Highway, about a 45 minute drive from Portland. It’s a short hike to the falls and there are several viewpoints along the way.

5. Fairy Falls: A Long hike pays off when you feel the magical mist off Fairy Falls.

6. Tunnel Falls: The main event at the end of the Eagle Creek Hike. This Falls drops strait down and early woodsman blasted a hole with dynamite behind the falls to make a tunnel.

7. Bride Vail Falls: A short down hill hike takes you to a wooden lookout where you can enjoy the pure white cascade of the water.

8. Falls Creek Falls (In Washington) The hands down most beautiful hike anywhere around. The long treck will reward you with the most stunning hidden falls you’ll ever see.

9. Comet Falls (In Washington) In the shadow of the looming Mt. Rainer is Comet Falls. This massive 2 tier is spectacular to climb next to.

10. Spirit Falls (In Washington) Hidden and accessible only to those who follow hidden waterfall blogs, this amazing falls is actually famous for kayaker to practice fall over. A bonus is waiting until the sun breaks and hits the falls directly causing a constant rainbow in the mist of its beauty.

There are many other waterfalls in the gorge that are worth visiting as well. If you’re planning a hike, be sure to bring plenty of water, a hat, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes. It’s also a good idea to let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Snowshoeing is a popular winter activity in Oregon, with numerous trails and locations offering opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Some popular destinations for snowshoeing in Oregon include Mount Hood, Crater Lake National Park, Wallowa Mountains, Diamond Peak Wilderness, and Three Sisters Wilderness.

In Oregon, it is important to be prepared for winter weather conditions when snowshoeing, including having proper clothing and equipment such as warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy snowshoes. It is also important to follow trail etiquette and stay on marked trails to prevent damage to the environment.

There are a number of rental and guided tour companies in Oregon that offer snowshoeing equipment and tours for those who do not have their own gear. It is also recommended to check with local ranger stations or park offices for current conditions and any necessary permits before embarking on a snowshoeing adventure.

1. Mount Hood: This iconic mountain in Oregon’s Cascade Range offers a variety of snow and snowshoe hikes, ranging from easy to strenuous. Highlights include the Timberline Trail, which circumnavigates the mountain, and the Tilly Jane Trail, which leads to a historic ranger cabin.
2. Crater Lake National Park: This spectacular park in Southern Oregon is home to the deepest lake in the United States, as well as a number of snow and snowshoe hikes. Highlights include the Plaikni Falls Trail, which leads to a stunning waterfall, and the Garfield Peak Trail, which offers panoramic views of the lake.
3. Wallowa Mountains: Located in northeastern Oregon, the Wallowa Mountains offer a variety of snow and snowshoe hikes, including the Hurricane Creek Trail, which leads to a series of waterfalls, and the Chief Joseph Trail, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Diamond Peak Wilderness: This wilderness area in central Oregon is home to a number of snow and snowshoe hikes, including the Summit Lake Trail, which leads to a picturesque lake, and the Diamond Peak Trail, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
5. Three Sisters Wilderness: This wilderness area in central Oregon is home to a number of snow and snowshoe hikes, including the Obsidian Trail, which leads to a historic lodge, and the Scott Pass Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Tom, Dick and Harry Mountain is a popular snowshoeing and skiing destination located in the Mt. Hood National Forest in Oregon. The mountain gets its name from the three distinctive peaks that rise above the tree line. The summit of Tom, Dick and Harry Mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Mt. Hood, Mt. Jefferson, and the Three Sisters.
7. Trillium Lake is another popular spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in Oregon. Located in the Mt. Hood National Forest, Trillium Lake is a picturesque, man-made lake surrounded by forests and meadows. The lake is a popular spot for photography, and the snow-covered scenery makes it an especially beautiful place to visit in the winter.

If you’re planning on visiting any of these destinations, be sure to come prepared with the proper gear and clothing, and be mindful of any safety precautions that may be necessary when participating in winter sports. Plan to pack crampons, mini spikes, snowshoes, hiking poles, emergency kits, avalanche bag, flash lights, extra water/food and phone charging bank in case of emergency. Always check weather conditions and parking passes/permits.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Portland, Oregon is a great place to visit during the holiday season. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you plan your trip:

• The weather in Portland during December is usually cold and wet, with temperatures ranging from the mid 30s to low 40s. Be sure to pack warm clothing and a raincoat or umbrella.
• There are many festive events and activities to enjoy in Portland during the holidays.
• If you plan on visiting Portland during the holiday season, it’s a good idea to book your accommodations and travel arrangements in advance. Hotels and flights tend to be in high demand during this time of year, and prices may be higher than usual.
• Portland has a variety of dining options to choose from, ranging from food carts to fine dining restaurants. During the holiday season, many restaurants offer special menus or discounts for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.

Visitors to Portland for the holidays will love all the quirky and fun sites in the city here’s a great start to your bucket list:

1. Visit the Benson Hotel Lobby and see their annual Gingerbread House. This holiday tradition features a massive gingerbread display adorned with hundreds of edible treats.
2. Check out Peacock Lane, a neighborhood in southeast Portland known for its elaborate holiday light displays. Each year, residents deck out their homes with twinkling lights, inflatable decorations, and more.
3. Head to Pioneer Square to see the city’s giant Christmas tree. This towering tree is decorated with lights and ornaments and is a popular spot for holiday photos.
4. Take a stroll through the Portland Christmas Ship Parade. This annual event features a fleet of decorated boats sailing along the Willamette River and Columbia River, with live music and holiday cheer on board.
5. Visit the Oregon Zoo to see the holiday lights display. The zoo transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights and holiday-themed activities for the whole family.
6. Go ice skating at the Portland Winter Light Festival. This annual event features ice skating, live music, and a dazzling display of light installations throughout the city.
7. Shop for unique holiday gifts at one of Portland’s many holiday markets, such as the Portland Flea + Food or the Holiday Ale Festival.
8. Attend a holiday performance, such as “The Nutcracker” at the Portland Ballet or “A Christmas Carol” at the Portland Playhouse.
9. Hunt for the Santa Clones. Hidden in the city is a display of hundreds of vintage blow mold Santas. Check out the artists website or social media for hints to find the display.
10. Snap a pic of the famed Christmas Martini located in the west hills. This massive light display is a seasonal must see.

I hope these ideas help you plan and epic Christmas bucket list for your next visit to Portland!

Keep Travel Funky.

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Portland, Oregon has a thriving bar scene, with a wide variety of bars and taverns to choose from. The city is known for its craft beer and has a number of breweries and brewpubs, as well as bars that specialize in cocktails and spirits. There are also a number of bars that offer live music, entertainment, and rooftop bars with views of the city.

In addition to traditional bars, Portland also has a number of unique and quirky bars, including speakeasies, tiki bars, and dive bars. The city is also home to a number of beer festivals and events, including the Portland International Beerfest and the Oregon Craft Beer Month in July.

Overall, Portland has something for everyone when it comes to the bar scene, and is a great place to go out and enjoy a drink with friends.

1. Start at McMenamins Crystal Ballroom for a drink and some live music. Make sure to wander the halls and check out the hidden candle lit downstairs bar.
2. Head over to the historic Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub for a stout beer and some amazing pub food.
3. Check out the rooftop bar at Departure, above the Nines Hotel for a cocktail with a view. (Currently under Kitchen Renovations)
4. Visit the iconic Rogue Ales Public House for a local craft beer.
5. See the spooky sights at the Ravens Manor and try one of their famed seasonal cocktails.
6. Check out the funky and quirky oddities at Roadside Attractions (Cash ONLY bar).
7. Visit the Alibi Tiki Lounge which has been serving island and tropical cocktails since 1947.
8. End the night at the speakeasy-style Whisky Library for a nightcap.

Keep in mind that it’s important to drink responsibly and to arrange for a designated driver or a ride-sharing service if you plan on drinking alcohol. Enjoy your bar crawl!

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Timberline Lodge is a historic ski lodge located on Mount Hood in Oregon. It was built in 1937 as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project, a part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal program to provide employment and stimulate the economy during the Great Depression.

The lodge was designed by the architectural firm W. Marbury Somervell and David J. Lewis, who were inspired by the lodges of the Swiss Alps. It was constructed using local materials, including stone from nearby quarries and wood from the surrounding forests.

The lodge has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, including the addition of a ski area in the 1960s. It has also served as a popular filming location, appearing in movies such as “The Shining” and “National Lampoon’s Vacation.”

Today, Timberline Lodge is a popular tourist destination, offering skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities in the winter, and hiking and other summer activities. It is also a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Check out all the amazing sights that Timberline as to offer. Here is an epic bucket list for your visit:

1. Ski or snowboard down the slopes of Mount Hood.
2. Take a guided tour of the historic Timberline Lodge.
3. Enjoy a Brunch or Dinner buffet at the lodge’s famous Cascade Dining Room.
4. Take a trip to the top of Mount Hood on the Palmer Snowfield Snowcat.
5. Go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the surrounding wilderness.
6. Check out the Blue Ox bar and their stunning glass art wall depicting the life of Paul Bunyan. If you happen to be hungry try their incredible Pizza.
7. Order the world most amazing Hot Chocolate at the Rams Bar on the third floor.
8. Hunt for Heidi and Bruno the famed search and rescue St. Bernard dogs that frequently enjoy snuggles, pets and photo sessions by the hotels front desk.
9. Check out the Mt. Hood Historical Museum located on the ground floor.
10. Bring a card game and enjoy getting cozy by one the epic 80 foot tall six-sided stone chimney that rising through three-floors.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Winter is the perfect time to explore Oregon and one of the best snow covered cities is Government Camp on Mt. Hood.

1. Huckleberry Inn

2. Charlie’s

3. Timberline

4. Valhalla

5. History Museum

6. Taco Shoppe

7. Glacier Public House

8. Rathskellers

9. Christmas Lights

10. Glow tubing

11. Steiner Houses

12. Glade Trail

13. Trillium Lake

14. Mirror Lake Trail

9. Glow Tubing

12. Trillium Lake Hike

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View some of her work:

Portland, Oregon Ultimate Bucket list Travel Guide

New York City Travel Guide

Las Vegas, Nevada Travel Guide

The West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta

Seattle, Washington

Oregon Coat Travel Guide

Portland Vegetarian Food Tour

The Devils Punch Bowl

Thors Well

Multnomah Falls and surrounding hikes

Terrible Tilly Lighthouse

Eagle Creek Hike

Mount Hood and Timberline Lodge

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

I was blown away by the beauty of Taiwan on my first visit, I can honestly say that it was an incredible experience. There are so many amazing places to visit in Taiwan, and I was lucky enough to get to see a few of them.

Here is a list of the top place that had me loving Taiwan and immediately planning a return trip:

1. Visit the Rainbow Village, a colorful and vibrant street art village in Taichung.
2. Check out the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper, one of the tallest buildings in the world.
3. Take a trip to Taroko National Park to experience the stunning natural beauty of Taiwan.
4. Explore the night markets, a staple of Taiwanese culture, for delicious street food and unique shopping experiences.
5. Visit the Sun Moon Lake, a popular tourist destination with stunning views and various recreational activities.
6. Take a trip to the National Palace Museum to see one of the largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts in the world.
7. Visit the Alishan National Scenic Area, a beautiful mountain range with hiking trails and breathtaking views.
8. Take a day trip to the city of Tainan, known for its rich history and cultural landmarks.
9. Explore the Beitou Hot Springs, a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
10. Visit the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a tribute to the former President of Taiwan.

Keep Travel Funky.