The Umpqua National Forest is an easy place to find inspiration.
It is also a very large place. Feeling somewhat inadequate in my ability to find a kid-friendly, supremely beautiful hike, complete with waterfall, I went on a hike with a group of folks who know the area well. An especially nice man named Pete, seems to know every trail in Southern Oregon. Pete promised us “the most beautiful hike in Southern Oregon” and he didn’t disappoint. This spot I have painted is right at the beginning of the trail.
Here we get to see the Little River at the Wolf Creek Trailhead from above, as it flows under a foot bridge that we stand on. The drought has revealed the contoured bedrock under the river. Bright white rock is shaded by the tall mountains very close to the river. The afternoon sun falls across the rocks and reflects the bright blue sky. Pete stated that he’d never seen the river so low and after our hike we returned and all stood around and took in this scene. It was a striking look, but one that made you almost feel guilty for appreciating the beauty made by the drought.
Want to see it in person? Check out the brochure for more info on the Wolf Creek Trail! If you want more information about this painting click here.