High in the hills of the Opal Creek Wilderness Area,
six amazing kids from our neighborhood held hands
in an effort to reach all the way around this cedar tree.
six amazing kids from our neighborhood held hands
in an effort to reach all the way around this cedar tree.
These tree-huggers (and their parents) were my fabulous traveling companions for a weekend get-away. When it comes to a trip to the beautiful mountains of the Pacific Northwest, here's my recipe for a perfect outdoor adventure:
1) Drive 1.5 hours north-east of Salem.
2) Park when you reach the end of Forest Road 2209 and load your food and supplies on to the Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center gear shuttle.
1) Drive 1.5 hours north-east of Salem.
2) Park when you reach the end of Forest Road 2209 and load your food and supplies on to the Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center gear shuttle.
3) Leisurely walk the 3 mile trail to Jawbone Flats. Be sure to stop and enjoy a picnic lunch, impromptu swim, and breathtaking view.
4) Enter Jawbone Flats (population 12) and have a seat in the comfort of Cabin #4. Kick back, relax, and praise an off 'the grid' system that provides lights, a full kitchen, flush toilets, and hot showers.
5) Explore the old mining community of Jawbone flats - you're sure to spot both the past (old mining equipment & buildings) and the future (ecology education programs & solar panels). Then strike out and enjoy the endless opportunities for hiking, creek walking, and discovering nature.
In my experience, two nights and three days at Opal Creek is the perfect length for families with young children. For us, such a weekend is like our own private outdoor school; a personalized family retreat; an un-plugged & off-line slumber party of fun. Climbing into the car for the ride home after this trip, my six year-old said it best: "When can we do that again?"