In the great debate of Mountains vs. Oceans preference, I submit to you, the reader, the following evidence for consideration. Whereas I can be inspired and can find peace and tranquility in either setting (and have), I still believe the edge goes to the Mountains - for me.
I love the Ocean for many reasons - its vastness, the sound of the surf, the power of crashing waves, the feeling of warm sand on the feet, tide pools, whales, dolphins, penguins, sea lions, and other fine citizens of the deep.
Mountains have very similar qualities, but in different ways. Mountains stand as nature’s majestic, silent statues over the land. They wrap themselves in dark and mysterious forests, blanket themselves in snow and glaciers. Shroud themselves in clouds and reveal themselves to the landscape across hundreds of miles. Some are volcanoes. Some are islands. Some are both. They are sanctuary for bears, birds, and big cats. There’s nothing quite like a mountain lake or mountain stream. Every mountain is unique in its shape, size, composition, and history. They have stories to tell.
Living in Portland and the Pacific NW allows access to both the Ocean and the Mountains easily and regularly. Mt. Hood, commonly referred to as “The Mountain” in these parts (as in, “Did you see The Mountain today?”), is an icon of Portland and Oregon. Reaching to over 11,000 feet, it is Oregon’s highest peak. It contains year-round glaciers, and hot springs. And it provides for a bounty of recreational opportunities. For me, I just want to photograph it from a variety of perspectives. This month provided two opportunities.
First, a day trip to Lost Lake, outside of Hood River. The cool Autumn air, and the lack of summertime crowds made for a peaceful stroll through the woods and along the shore. The views of The Mountain from Lost Lake are from the north.
The more typical perspective of Mt. Hood is from Portland looking East. The following shots are from the town of Sandy, a small rural town just on the eastern outskirts of Portland.
I do love this mountain!