Day 2, June 16, 2015, St. Helens, OR to Welches, OR, 75 miles and 3150 feet of climbing.  Leaving St. Helens it was in the low 50’s and sunny with a slight favorable wind out of the NW.  Apparently we are having great luck with the weather as normally they get lots of cold rain.  By noon it was well into the mid 70’s and the wind continued to be favorable.  We headed to Portland via Highway 30.  As we approached the city we crossed the Columbia River on a huge steel bridge.  From there we accessed a series of bike paths that skirted us around and throughthe city, much of which was along the Columbia River.  The river was interesting in that in many locations there were developments of house boats anchored permanently on the water’s edge.  As we exited the city we got on Highway 26, headed east and started climbing.  We passed many, many “nursery farms” where they grow trees, shrubs, etc..  Apparently Oregon is one of the top producers and exporters of nursery products.  While traveling through nursery country we were treated to our first views of majestic Mt. Hood.  I stopped to take many pictures but unfortunately they did not capture the true splendor of the views that I enjoyed.  Tonight we are staying in a 5 star resort near the base of Mt. Hood.  The ride leader made a point of telling us to not expect these types of accommodations in the future.  It is very nice.  Overall I had a very good day on the bike.  I rode well and comfortably.  Having a great time!!  (Note: tomorrows posting may be delayed as the WiFi network at our next stop is notoriously week)

 

Oregon has to be the coffee capital of the world.  You are never far from a small shop and access to my morning nectar!!

 

Crossing the Columbia River

 

View from the bridge looking away from Portland

 

Yours truly.  Notice the house "boats" in the background.

 

A development of floating houses in the background.  Now that is water front living!!

 

Mt. Hood

 

Another shot of Mt. Hood, far in the background.