The mighty Columbia

CASCADE LOCKS,  OR - - We've escaped  two weeks in Mt. Ranier NP and have wandered over some very twisty Cascade Mtns. roads towards the Oregon coast.  Our first stop, or the first town of any size was Stevenson, WA.  Before crossing the Columbia River, we walked along a riverfront area crowded with mainly kite boarders.  The winds in the Columbia Gorge are perfect for plenty of action.  And then there was the paddle wheeler all set to recreate the bygone days.  Unfortunately it wasn't going anyplace but serving as a luncheon host for two bus loads of retirees.

    

     An   AMTRAK commuter train also zipped thru Stevenson while we were there. However the bigger surprise on steel rails awaited us when we crossed a bridge over into Oregon and the Cascade Locks KOA campground.  Aside from having electricity / wi-fi / and cell service plus hot water and showers, the main rail line runs right past the campground.  No doubt some recent campers were surprised, at how close but   we love it.  Although I'll wait until way past midnight to see if there's a 2:30am freight.