Hike Coordinator: Missy Kroeker
Narration by Missy Kroeker
After such a long, wet winter, spring was here and a handful of eager hikers gathered in the courthouse parking lot to travel to Eugene and the Howard Buford Recreation Area. Also known as Mt. Pisgah for the “mountain” in the park. At the trailhead we met up with Bekah, her dog Bailey and my husband, son and granddaughter. I hadn’t hiked much this winter due to a variety of reasons and it felt good to be on the trail. Spring in Oregon is such a beautiful time of year. Everything is so green! The Mt. Pisgah trail did not disappoint.
I had led this same hike last year. We, again, started at the Southeastern trailhead and made a 7-ish mile loop through the park. It was a warm, clear day. Camas lilies and wild iris lined the approach to the summit. Is Mt. Pisgah getting steeper or am I getting older? I know it’s the later. As always, the views are inspiring. The snow covered Three Sisters to the north, Diamond Peak to the east and the lush farmland near the Williamette River to the south and west. We gathered for our group photos at the summit and said goodbye to my son and granddaughter, who needed to return home. The remainder of us continued on to Swing Hill for lunch. After lunch and some rest, we continued our loop back to the Southeastern trailhead.
It was an enjoyable warm Spring Day hiking with old and new friends. Even though Mt Pisgah is relatively close to home it felt like we got out away a bit. Spring is the time for hope. Hope for new things to come and hope of another great hiking season.
Pictures below by Missy Kroeker
