Columbia River Gorge - April 2024

Spring has arrived! Yesterday, I had an amazing hike through the Columbia River Gorge. Not expecting much, I saw a huge variety and abundance of wildflowers like camas, paintbrush, balsamroot, and blue-eyed Mary. Luckily, I had enough time to hike through Memaloose State Park, Tom McCall Nature Preserve, and Catherine Creek Archway in one day, each spot offering a variety ephemeral wildflowers.

The juxtaposition of desert and temperate forest in this region creates a unique ecosystem, hosting endemic species like the Lomatium columbianum. As I explored the oak savannah and majestic Ponderosa pine forest, contrasting with the lush Douglas fir/Western hemlock woodlands of the western Cascades, I couldn't help but appreciate the diversity of life that grows here.

The geological history of the Gorge is equally captivating, with its origins dating back 40 to 60 million years ago, shaped by molten lava and ancient volcanic eruptions. The dramatic Missoula floods 15,000 years ago, caused by the rupture of a colossal ice dam during the glacial retreat, sculpted the breathtaking cliffs and channels that define the landscape today. This rich tapestry of natural wonders, from the blooming wildflowers to the awe-inspiring geological formations, makes every moment in the Columbia River Gorge a truly special experience.

Now that my tree planting season has come to a close, I’ll have much more time to post about my wildflower excursions and findings. I’m also thinking about posting video content on my youtube channel, so keep an eye our for that as well!

Camassia quamash and Plectritis congesta

Camassia quamash (white form)

Fritillaria affinis

Fritillaria affinis

Camassia quamash? Such densely packed inflorescence.

Lomatium klickitatense

Erythronium grandiflorum

Erythronium grandiflorum

Aphyllon purpureum

Lomatium columbianum

Collinsia grandiflora

Delphinium nuttalianum

Primula poetica

Primula poetica

Lomatium triternatum

Balsamorhiza and Castilleja

Plagiobothyrs nothofulvus

Ranunculus occidentalis

Hydrophyllum capitatum