4/8, Saturday. Had to work a bit in the morning, delayed our departure for the weekend. Rain is in the forecast, so we headed east. 
First stop, Catherine Creek, an excellent flower destination, as well as great views of the Columbia Gorge. I come here at least once a year, always in Spring. Still some nice patches of grass widow, but not a lot. Saw this Naked Broomrape, a beautiful parasite plant. Always a delight.
Next stop is White River Falls. I was here last year in May. Now the water is in full swing. So much so, it's hard to take a photo without getting sprayed. Another added bonus is the pungent desert parsley. They are also in full bloom. The air is filled with their smell.
Driving along Sheras Bridge Hwy is quite scenic right now, green rolling hills. By the time we arrived at John Day area, it was already getting late.
Clarno, is the smallest section of the John Day Fossil Bed National Monument. 
The short hike is easy and short. Interesting rock forms. The restroom in the picnic area is closed (maybe for the season). Sun was going down, and temperature dropped quickly. In the vicinity, we saw mating turkeys twice.Camped by Pine Creek. Chilly night.
4/9, Sunday. Driving to Fossil and continue on to Painted Hill. Took the scenic detour along Twickenham Road, a decent gravel road. 
Visited the Priest Hole Camp by John Day River. The access road to the camp is a bit rough.
At Painted Hills, hiked up Caroll Rim, maybe the best view in the park, certainly highest. Lots of yellow fiddleneck blooming on the slope.
I never visited the Red Hill before. It's a very short loop, and the hill is very red. Good that I stopped by today.Drove back to Portland shortly after noon. Detoured to Timberline Lodge. Great view, and the cool air freshened up the drowsy driving.
