It’s the first day of Spring, and I’m delighted to say it actually feels like it here in Portland. The plants are budding, the skies are (thinking) about parting, and the temperature is slowly, but surely rising. This time of year, I’m compelled to start migrating from my snowboard to my hiking poles and enjoy some of my favorite Spring things.
Cherry Blossoms
One hundred Akebono cherry trees line the west side of the Willamette River between the Steel and Burnside Bridges, boasting pink and white cherry blossom pedals starting in early March. Every year, people gather along the Waterfront to photograph these delicate blossoms, and I am happily guilty of it each spring.
Hikes
Let’s be honest, pretty much any time of year I’m up for a hike, but there’s something about the smell of fresh (allbeit allergic), emerging flora, the sight of lush green, and even the spring showers leaving dampness all around. I recently hiked the Marquam Trail to Council Crest, enjoying the city’s highest point and a lovely view of downtown. While the Marquam is a great local getaway, Angel’s Rest in the Columbia Gorge, and Ramona Falls in the Mt. Hood National Forest are beautiful day getaways as well.
Whale Watching
The last week in March is known for Gray whale migrations north along the Oregon Coast. There are multiple viewpoints where you can take advantage to see these incredible creatures, most notably Depoe Bay, Cape Meares and Ecola State Park.
Photo credits: OCVA, Whale Tail Rain; Residae, Whale Watching from Shore; Anne Hornyak, View from Cape Meares Oregon Coast
Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival
This is by far one of my most favorite events in the extended Portland area. Beginning in April, the Woodburn Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival is bursting with colorful tulips, often with a view of Mt. Hood in the background.
My Favorite -Ings 
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