Michael GrawExplorer

Explorer

Michael Graw

Explorer

South Sister via Devil's Lake Trailhead

05/29/17

The climb up South Sister is definitely a classic hike in Oregon - it's one of the most accessible volcano summits in the Northwest, and the views are staggering. There is so much good to say about this hike, detracted from only slightly by the fact that it's so popular - make sure to get to the trailhead early, both to get an early start and to secure a parking spot. In general, start earlier in the day and bring PLENTY of water since it can get very hot and is a huge change in elevation to the summit. A bandana could also be nice, since the trail is very dusty. Trekking poles are also key - the hike back down is a knee-buster! Also, I've seen people hiking on the glacier at the mountain's shoulder in the past...don't do it - it's an active glacier with crevasses and an easy way to create a dangerous situation.

5.0

Explorer

Michael Graw

Explorer

Camp at Cape Blanco State Park

05/29/17

A friend has been telling me how much I HAVE to go to Cape Blanco for over a year now, and I finally stopped there on my way down the coast this past weekend. It's spectacular. The views north and south up the coast are like nowhere else since the land juts so far out to sea heare, and there's a ton to explore in the rocky intertidal zone below the bluffs of the cape itself. Definitely planning to go back and spend some more time there!

5.0

Explorer

Michael Graw

Explorer

Explore the Beaches of Bandon

05/29/17

Bandon beach is super cool because of the sea stacks (rock formations) being right on the beach, rather than farther out to sea like in many places on the southern OR coast. It definitely does see a spike in popularity relative to the rest of the southern coast, but it's nothing compared to places like Canon Beach or Pacific City. Do be careful not to turn your back to the ocean - "sneaker" waves are abundant in this region and have been known to kill, even during low tides.

5.0