The Navel of the World

Beacon Rock in the Columbia River Gorge, is an 848 foot basalt column that once formed the core, or belly, of an ancient volcano. Known originally as Che-che-op-tin, or "The Navel of the World by Native Americans. "During the ice age, icebergs and flowing waters slowly carved away the softer exterior rock, leaving Beacon Rock sticking straight out of the north banks of the Columbia River" (Washington Trails Association). It is also considered a rock climber's paradise.

We had a business meeting in Vancouver and our return trip was via Hwy. 14 on the Washington side of the Gorge. The extra is a view of the Columbia River looking east from Cape Horn. There is a relatively new trail from Cape Horn to the Columbia River. It was a gorgeous day and beautiful drive.