[whitebark]

Part 3 of my little Oregon adventure. The 60s era lives on at Breitenbush Hot Springs, which is part commune, holistic retreat center, and resort. I skipped the yoga classes, and just enjoyed soaking in the hot springs and doing some hiking. It is quite expensive to stay there, but at least there are 3 meals a day (excellent vegetarian food) included in the price. Some trails start right at the resort. I did the 4.5 mile Emerald Forest Loop, which visits some great old growth forest along the Breitenbush River and on Devils Ridge. As is typical in the OR Cascades, Rhododendrons form much of the forest's understory...must be pretty in the spring. When I was there, the maples put on quite a fall color show. Some pics:

Breitenbush Hot Springs

Breitenbush Hot Springs

Breitenbush Hot Springs

Breitenbush Hot Springs

Breitenbush Hot Springs

Breitenbush Hot Springs

Breitenbush Hot Springs Hydro Plant

Breitenbush Hot Springs

Breitenbush Hot Springs

Breitenbush Hot Springs

Breitenbush Hot Springs

[Meander]

Such a lovely retreat. The food is absolutely so delicious. If you are in the area (near Sisters, OR), it's worth it go and stop by just for a meal, and squeeze in a hot spring soak if you have a few hours, even if you can't stay there. They do allow drop ins like that if they have room for a reasonable cost (worth it in any case). Did you go into the yoga room? It's a really nice building.

[whitebark]

Never got into the yoga sanctuary, which seems to be reserved all the time for classes. I did enjoy visiting "Buddha's playhouse", a free-form cob (mixed clay and straw) structure with a heated floor. There is lots of whimsical architecture everywhere at Breitenbush.