Blue River Reservoir, Aufderheide Scenic Byway, and Cougar Reservoir in Oregon

Charred Tree on the Aufderheide Scenic Byway 

Memorial Day Weekend

This past Memorial weekend, we traveled south to the McKenzie River Corridor area near Blue River, Oregon. Blue River is east of Eugene and Springfield. In 2020 the town of Blue River was decimated by the Holiday Farm Fire/Rainbow Fire as it tore through the McKenzie River Corridor. It was one of the largest wildfires in Oregon history. My husband was one of the volunteer fire fighters who helped fight that fire. It burned and destroyed more than 173,000 acres and over 500 homes and businesses along the McKenzie River Corridor. You can check out this link to see what devastation the fire did to the town of Blue River and the nearby businesses. Destination Oregon: Blue River, one year after the devastating fires 

However, life is slowly returning amidst the charred ruins, and people have rebuilt homes or are in the process of rebuilding their homes. Though the forest throughout this whole region may be littered with charred tree remains, life is blooming amidst the devastation.

Aufderheide Scenic Byway 

The Aufderheide Scenic Byway is part of the 220-mile West Cascades Scenic Byway. Along the Aufderheide Scenic Byway (Forest Service Road 19) is Cougar Reservoir. The byway was closed further up past the French Pete campground due to winter weather.

 

Blue River Reservoir

Amidst the charred remains of the Holiday Farm fire is the Blue River Reservoir. The reservoir is located 45 miles east of Eugene and 1 mile north of Oregon Route 126 in the Willamette National Forest. Turning up the exit to Blue River Reservoir, one can see the fire damage where trees and homes once stood, but God's beautiful creation was abounding throughout the area.

spotted sandpiper

H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest

H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest is located north of Blue River Reservoir and was established in 1948 by the U.S. Forest Service. The research includes watershed processes, forest ecology, old-growth Douglas-fir forests, and plantation. There were many wildflowers in bloom on our travels there, and snow drifts still covered some of the upper roads melting off into the streams and small waterfalls.

Until Next Time

Happy Creating and Hiking!

God Bless,

Grand Tetons, Dubois Wyoming and New Calendar

Traveling Idaho and Wyoming

In September, we had the opportunity to travel back to the Grand Tetons National Park and visit Dubois, Wyoming. Dubois is located to the east of the park. To get to Dubois, take hwy 26/287 just past the Moran entrance. We got to view some gorgeous country, and we had the opportunity to see some of God's amazing creatures.

Our first stop along the way to the Grand Tetons, was Ashton, Idaho and Mesa Falls. Mesa Falls is located in Eastern Idaho in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. We traveled along the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, which is located between Ashton, Idaho and Island Park, Idaho. The byway takes about one hour or more to drive through. It can take a little longer if you decide to do any of the hikes along the route.

Ashton, Idaho

Mesa Falls

Both, the Lower and Upper Mesa Falls have overlooks to view the waterfalls.

Mesa Falls

Wildflowers along the trails. Wild Columbine and sunflower species.

Wildflowers

Yellowstone National Park

Our next stop was Yellowstone National Park. We did just a quick drive through on our way to Dubois, Wyoming.

Dubois Wyoming and National Bighorn Sheep Center

Finally, we reached Dubois, Wyoming. It's a charming old west town located within the Wind River Valley and just about an hour east of Grand Teton National Park. It has a lot of history and is the location of the National Bighorn Sheep Center. A must-stop if you are interested in learning about the wildlife in the area and the Whiskey Basin Wildlife Area.

Dubois Wyoming Scenic Overlook

If you visit Dubois, Wyoming, do not forget to stop off at the Dubois Scenic Overlook to see some spectacular views of the valley. 

National Museum of Military Vehicles

The National Museum of Military Vehicles is located east of Dubois, Wyoming. It displays a collection of over 500 military vehicles and over 200 firearms. The fee for adults to get in is $20. This fee covers two days. The expanse of what this museum covers in history is incredible. This museum is an amazing tribute to our military service men and women. It is a great opportunity to take one's family on a field trip to educate them about the history of our military and about how our men and women throughout the United States history have fought for our freedoms. The  museum has displays that cover Word War I, Word War II, Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

Grand Tetons National Park

I have to say this is one of my favorite National Parks. The beauty of the Grand Tetons is breathtaking. I could never tire of looking at these mountains. They are truly one of God's majestic wonders that He has created for us all to enjoy. If you are interested, there are live cams to watch the wildlife and the beauty of the Tetons located on See Jackson Hole on YouTube. 

New Calendar

God's Majestic Wonders 2023 Calendar
by mooresart

Keep on Creating!

Have a blessed week!