Hell’s Canyon, Idaho-Washington
Chilly winds and flying clouds, moving across the morning sky! We depart the Sea Lion for a day of adventure in a jetboat, going upriver from Clarkston, Washington, into the heart of Hell’s Canyon. Part of our expectations is that we might see a Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep somewhere on the rim rocks that rise out of the river. As the boat rushes upriver more than fifty pairs of eyes scan the hills, looking for the elusive animals. We proceed on, enjoying the local history, and the magnificent scenery, and still searching.
Time and geography change as the day wears on. We are deep in the canyon with black walls rising steeply on either side. Our understanding of the geological forces that shaped this land gain reinforcement from interpretation by the captain of our craft. A scenic stop along the way gives us insight into early settlers in this harsh landscape. But still, no Mountain Sheep! Ah, well…we have enjoyed the trip anyway, so we head back toward Heller Bar to have our lunch, which we really enjoyed.
Lunch finished, we begin to wander back toward the waiting boat when we are confronted by the animal pictured above. We didn’t find the Bighorn Sheep…he found us.
Chilly winds and flying clouds, moving across the morning sky! We depart the Sea Lion for a day of adventure in a jetboat, going upriver from Clarkston, Washington, into the heart of Hell’s Canyon. Part of our expectations is that we might see a Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep somewhere on the rim rocks that rise out of the river. As the boat rushes upriver more than fifty pairs of eyes scan the hills, looking for the elusive animals. We proceed on, enjoying the local history, and the magnificent scenery, and still searching.
Time and geography change as the day wears on. We are deep in the canyon with black walls rising steeply on either side. Our understanding of the geological forces that shaped this land gain reinforcement from interpretation by the captain of our craft. A scenic stop along the way gives us insight into early settlers in this harsh landscape. But still, no Mountain Sheep! Ah, well…we have enjoyed the trip anyway, so we head back toward Heller Bar to have our lunch, which we really enjoyed.
Lunch finished, we begin to wander back toward the waiting boat when we are confronted by the animal pictured above. We didn’t find the Bighorn Sheep…he found us.
