I may be from Southern California, but I do know rain when I see it. Note to the weatherman – those weren’t “showers” today. That was rain. And it rained all day, or at least the entire time that I was hiking. The ironic thing is that today’s destination was Sweet Creek. The last time we visited Oregon during autumn we got soaked by rain at Sweet Creek. At least this time I wasn't wearing a completely worn out rain jacket. The constant rain did end up taking its toll though. The bottom of my pants were soaked as well as my feet. I guess I’ll be wearing a different pair of boots tomorrow. Unfortunately I don’t believe that I got many good shots today.

I saw some huckleberries. I’m not admitting anything, but there may have been a few less than when I got there. In my defense, I didn't pick any that I couldn't reach. I also saw three rough skinned newts. I’m happy to report that all three are in great shape. I kept a lookout for them because I was afraid that I might step on one.

I’ve lost count of the times that I’ve been to Sweet Creek, but there was one section of trail that I had never been to. I almost skipped it today since I was tired of getting soaked, but I’m glad that I decided to check it out. The creek is more placid in that section, and the trail doesn’t offer any access until right at the end. The view of Beaver Falls is much better than from the other side, although there were some branches in my way.

All in all, it was worth sitting through two almost half hour roadwork delays.

I took SR36 back so that I could check out Lake Creek Falls. It was a disappointment photographically speaking. I can see why it would be a popular destination during hot weather. There are wonderful rock slides. I just didn’t see anything worth shooting, and surprisingly for me, I didn’t even use my camera. Usually I’ll take some shots just to remember what I saw. Speaking of which, I need to choose a picture to upload. I almost chose a different one, but I think I’ll end up with yet another shot of my favorite spot at Sweet Creek. This time I chose a different perspective to highlight the stone instead of the waterfall. I’m not 100% sold on this view, but oh what the heck. I’m not really that hard to please.