Government Camp; summer version

Many of us think of Government Camp, and the surroundings as a winter playground.  Or a place to stop through on your way to or from camping.

We're just back from a lovely few summer days playing in and around Government Camp.

We stayed at the lovely Grand Lodges at Collins Lake.  While in Government Camp, the property is slightly west of the hubhub; all the conveniences a short walk away, but we were in a welcome quieter spot.  All but the top floor units are spacious, 1800+ sq ft, one level units, with three bedrooms and two roomy bathrooms (the top floor units also have a 300+ sq ft loft, and gorgeous soaring ceiling in the living and dining areas).  There is a fab kitchen, large dining area and big sitting area with fireplace.  There is a deck across back. overlooking sweet, little Collins Lake.  The property has covered, secure parking, elevator, pool house with pool, sauna and hot tub.  Oh, and there is electric vehicle charging just across the way at Ski Bowl.  We used the CHAdeMO, fast charger for $7.50 a session; no waiting, no issues.

We were six; three couples, and were quite comfortable in the space.  The kitchen was easy to cook in; and nicely connected to the rest of the unit, so the cook didn't feel left out.  Thankful for the well stocked kitchen, we didn't want for a particular utensil or specific pot.

Our first day, there was indeed a run to the Huckleberry Inn for baked goods, that may or may not have occurred on subsequent days. And then we headed up to Timberline Lodge, for  a hike.  Half our party had not been to the Lodge before, always a treat to be with first timers.

Our hike was to the Zigzag Canyon Overlook, really just a part of the Mt. Hood Loop trail.  As with most hikes from destination resports (Crater Lake felt much the same way) the trail is quite crowded to begin with, and thins out quickly.  It is a 4.4 mile loop, of mostly easy hiking.  There is a fair decent to the overlook, so be sure to save energy (especially if you've got younger kids along), for the return trip.  From the Lodge, head out to the terrace, and go left.  There are a few options, most of which lead to the same place.   There are, of course, great views as you start out, some lovely treed parts of the trail, and also sparse, exposed areas.  The overlook itself is stunning.

Heading out. Mt. Jefferson in the distance.

Zigzag Canyon

Then it was back to our accomodations for lunch and pooltime!  Dinner that night as with our previous night, was in.  There was pie!  The Huckleberry Inn had fabulous apple and huckleberry pie.

Next day, some in our party went back up to Timberline Lodge to ride the magic mile chairlift up to 7000 ft. The ride is quite scenic, with a fee of $54 for a family of four.   Others headed down to hike the Salmon River  out of Welches.  The Old Salmon River Trail is also a nice one, and probably better if you have small kids along.

We splurged our last night, and had dinner in the Cascade Dining Room at Timberline Lodge.  We were pleasantly surprised with a superb meal.  Sometimes, destination resorts have cache, and a beautiful room, but the food can be a bit blah. Not the case at Timberline!  Our party of six all enjoyed the meal; salmon, pasta, rib eye, flat iron steak and mussels.  Plus salads, bread and a succulent lemon creme brulee.  We were interested to learn that the dining room has their own beef program; owning the land, cattle and process.  Those who had steak said it was fabulous.  The service was great, attentive, but not too. The food was delicious, and the ambiance can't be beat.  If you can, treat yourself.

We took the long way home, via Highway 35 and a stop at  Idiot's Grace, Memaloose Winery and Tasting Room  in Mosier.  It had been several years since I've come down Highway 35.  The Hood River valley is lovely.  We were a bit early for fruit picking , aside from cherries.  Idiot's Grace Winery is a small, organic winery.  Their basis of operations used to be across  the river in Lyle, until a few years ago.

I'm not a wine drinker, so can't comment on that.  We were, though, at a private event there, and our wine enthusiast compatriots were impressed.  The vintner gave a variety of interesting talks, and a tour of the spread.

All in all, a fun, easy few days, rather close to home.  The Pacific Northwest is so lovely in summer, it's nice to stick around.  Do you have a favorite easy get away to share?