Columbia Plateau Cheney Spangle trailhead

 It is always a thrill for me to be the first one to put tracks in new snow. Being the first just seems so special. It was a wet but wonderfully quiet treck down the Columbia Plateau going from the Cheney Spangle trailhead back toward Fish Lake. The snow fell in spurts and some of the waterfalls are now trickling water again. There is a special place where little streams of water trickle between rocks making you think of a tropical forest, although the white stuff on the ground tells you different. The trail from this trailhead all the way back to Fish Lake is wide and paved and there is a stream on either side that can overflow the trail during heavy rain or spring runoff. For now it is contained. The fall colors are still vibrant and when up against the snow make for a real feast for the eyes. 

Riverside State Park Bowl and Pitcher

 Went walking in Riverside State Park at the Bowl and Pitcher. This is always beautiful no matter the season and yesterday was no exception. The bridge over the river seems to beckon you to come explore. The first measurable snowfall had left a little white on some of the paths through the forest and the water was back up to roaring down the riverbed. On the last visit I had been able to walk out to the center of the river as the water was down so much. The bed that I walked on the last time was under water this time, as it should be. I always wish there was a way for photos to have scent as the wonderful rich clean spicy smell that is a damp forest adds so much to the experience. Walking really is an all senses experience.

A visit to Cat Tales exotic Wildlife center

 If you, like I hadn't, haven't been to Cat Tales on highway 2 in Mead for years its time to go again. I made the trip out there with my mom, sister and her 3 little girls today. There are so many tigers there now. Most are the classic black and orange but they also have a rare white tiger. The white tiger decided to roll around and enjoy a good back scratch, fun to see. The single lioness that is there looked regally at us from her enclosure. So many different color of foxes playfully yipping at each other through the fences. A single black bear trotted up and down in back of his fence. Cougars, lynx, bobcat and wolves are in residence. This is the  only zoo anywhere near Spokane and well worth the trip to see these wonderful animals up close. 

Columbia Plateau Trail Amber Lake trailhead

 What a gorgeous November day to be out on the trail. The Columbia Plateau Amber Lake trail head is located about about 11 miles south of Cheney via Mullinix Rd and West Pine Springs rd. It is well marked for the turn onto Pine Springs. The lake is small and down in a dip but very picturesque. Tall pine trees and sheer rocks surround it. When I was there a herd of cattle had made their way down to the shore on the other side. This is a no gas motor lake but there were a lot of people fishing and there is a boat launch.  The trailhead requires a Discovery Pass to park in the lot but does have a bathroom. The trail travels southwest from the trailhead, it is large stone gravel and gravel. Ponds, trees and native grasses line the route. Some areas you pass through sheer rock outcroppings. The land on either side is ranch land. One large cattle ranch sits among the hills with lots of barns and cattle. The trail crosses over Pine Springs road twice within a mile between the crossings. I go out on the trail and when coming back take the road at the first crossing as it gives a closer look at the Ranch and some up and down for a different view point when goin along. This is not a loop and you decide how many miles you have time for or just feel like doing and then turn back. There are mile markers as you go along.

Spokane Riverfront Park Halloween

 Went walking the Centennial Trail into Spokane's Riverfront Park the day before Halloween. So many people out and about. There were a lot of little ones in costume as they were doing a candy treasure hunt at the mall. Took a ride on the iconic Sky ride gondolas, something I hadn't done in years and watched my nephew ride the Looff Carrousel. Always a nice walk around the park to people watch and just enjoy the beauty of the place.