Springtime in Hells Canyon

 One of the great things about living in this country is the ability to get into the back country much earlier than most wilderness areas, thanks to the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area (which is essentially wilderness with a few minor differences).  Spring comes so much earlier in the deepest gorge in North America... and so do the flowers and the wildlife!

As we have a pack trip headed into the canyon this Sunday, we've already take several rides in to scout trail conditions and take a load of gear in.  The 2 days we've gone so far were both very different from each other!

The first day was beautiful and warm although pretty breezy.

The 2nd trip was much cooler and we had mist / light rain most of the day.  Not as pleasant, but sure gave some great views!

Our 1st trip was May 20th - 25th with a group of Plein ("Plen") Air painters.  What a great time we had!  They were happy to have great light for painting and we thoroughly enjoyed our visits and learning about their art!

The 2nd trip was with two very interesting ladies, a Mom & Daughter, who had two of the most unusual jobs we've met... Mom is a Chainsaw carver & daughter is a bush pilot!  We took several great rides and enjoyed awesome views.  The wind was a little crazy every eve, but overall weather wasn't bad.  The rattlesnake in the wall tent was a little more adventure than we typically care to have however (story to come in the future).