“Your vibe attracts your tribe.” Whoever said that was spot on!
One of my friends started a hiking “club” for moms, and I couldn’t be happier that she did! I’ve always loved being outdoors, especially in great weather, and hiking is the perfect way to enjoy it. Our group is made up of women over 35, most of whom have children, and the idea is simple: get out, explore, and take a break from the usual routine.
Just like I’ve written before about how mindset is key on a health journey, this hike felt like a much-needed reset for my mental health. I’m so grateful to my friends for organizing these monthly get-togethers, and I’m lucky I was able to join in on the very first one.
Maybe my love for hiking comes from growing up in Korea, where it’s practically a daily routine for many older Koreans. Anna and I both share that love, and living in the Pacific Northwest is perfect for it—it feels like the outdoors is always calling.
For September, we decided to hike Lyle Cherry Orchard Trail. It’s about an hour and a half from Portland, just past Hood River. The trail is on the Washington side, so we crossed the bridge (small toll included!) and headed north.
distance: 6 miles
elevation gain: 1,150 ft.
difficulty: moderate
drive time from Portland: 1 hour 30 minutes
parking pass: none
hike description: OregonHikers.org – Lyle Cherry Orchard Hike
Before the trip: We did a little research and discovered the trail had plenty of poison oak and ticks, so we made sure to wear long pants for extra protection. Better safe than sorry!
Parking: The trailhead is right off a random road, so keep an eye out for the parking area—it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking.
Entrance: We had a bit of a funny start. Without thinking too much, we just headed straight past the trail sign, and about 10-15 minutes in, we realized we weren’t on the actual trail! Lesson learned: pay close attention to where the trail starts, or you might end up on your own little adventure like we did.
The trail: We underestimated our timeline, so we opted for the shorter Cherry Orchard Trail instead of the Lyle Loop Trail. The scenery on this hike is absolutely spectacular. Overlooking the Columbia River, the views left us speechless. It’s totally worth the drive if you’re in Portland. Sure, there are some great trails closer to the city, but this one was truly breathtaking. And having perfect weather and great company made it all the better.
Things to bring: I wish I had brought a proper lightweight water bottle for hiking. My usual stainless steel one was a bit tough to carry around. A hiking backpack with side pockets for easy access to a water bottle would’ve made things more comfortable! We also packed a salad in a silicone pouch, and it worked out nicely for a quick bite on the trail.
It’s not always easy to carve out time for yourself, but it’s so important. Hiking clears your mind and prepares you for the busy days ahead. Prioritizing yourself isn’t selfish—it’s the mindset we should all embrace. Plus, don’t forget to appreciate the community you’re building along the way.
Now, get out there with your friends and embrace the wild!
