So, now that it’s officially 2015 (whoa), let’s take a look back at the big year that was 2014. We traveled a lot. We hiked a lot. We ate a lot. We moved to Portland. It was pretty great. Here are the highlights of the many Ringer adventures:
Best Waterfall Hikes:
One of the many reasons why Bend is a spectacular place. You don’t have to walk far to see the waterfall, but there’s ton of hiking around it.
Crazy cool, and conveniently located close to a hot spring (prepare for some nudies).
Silver Falls State Park (Trail of Ten Falls)
Ten waterfalls in 8.7 miles. Done.
Best Roadtrip Stop:
Yosemite (on our trip up and down California)
You have to see it to believe it. Absolutely spectacular in every way.
Best Camping Trip:
Devil’s Lake Campground and Green Lakes Hike
One of the most scenic hikes we’ve ever done, with tons of snow, even in mid-June. And a great campsite right next to Devil’s Lake.
Best (and Worst) Running Shenanigans:
I ran two marathons in October. The Portland Marathon came first, and it was the worst.
This was the second marathon, and the views were worth every grueling hill. If you’re going to run a marathon in Oregon, this is pretty top notch.
Best Water Activities:
Another reason why Bend rocks. This is the perfect way to spend a hot summer afternoon.
A hike through a creek full of freezing water up to my shoulders. Ridiculous, yet completely incredible.
Biggest Life Event:
After 2 years at the University of Oregon, Eric graduated with his MBA in June, which led to our big move to Portland in the Fall.
Generally Awesome Oregon Adventures:
This was just ridiculously cool. Lots of hiking, rock climbing, and views for days.
The third tallest mountain in Oregon proved to be a beast, but the 12.5-mile round trip is gorgeous.
This mountain range we’d never heard of in Northeastern Oregon stole our hearts during our Thanksgiving visit. There’s so much hiking to be done in 2015!
Here’s hoping 2015 shapes up to be just as exciting as last year!
-Ally
Betsy Ringer says
OH if I were younger and stronger I would take every one of these hikes. The beauty is magnificent. Thank you for “taking us with you” and giving others the umph to get away from their technology and experience the spectacular sights that our country generously provides. So very grateful for the visionaries who set aside land and beautiful scenes for all of us to enjoy!
Cindy Tannehill says
Fabulous pictures! Thank you for writing your blog. I spent a few days in Oregon a year ago and was in awe of the beauty. Now I know I need to travel there again!
Cindy Tannehill–friend of Betsy
Ally says
Thanks for reading, Cindy! Oregon is definitely worth a second visit, and maybe a third and fourth!
Diane O'Connor says
Wow! Thanks for sharing.
Betsy passed on a link to your blog, and I just showed my husband your stunning photos – absolutely breath-taking! You are blessed!
Ally says
Thanks, Diane! Sometimes I can’t believe any of these amazing things we get to see are real! It’s been a beautiful year!
Emily says
This really makes me want to explore the Pacific Northwest. Wasn’t Yosemite breathtaking? It’s possibly my favorite place in the world, as of right now. Oh, memories.
Ally says
Emily, Yosemite was amazing! I wish we could have spent more time there! I’d love to go back in the snow. The pictures I’ve seen are gorgeous!