A Walk by the River

After work today, the sun was shining again, and the brilliant fall colors returned for another visit. I took the opportunity to walk on a campus trail that follows the Spokane River. 

Plants near the SCC Greenhouse. 

A flower near the greenhouse. 

The Spokane River just north of the SCC campus. 

The Greene Street Bridge. 

On the banks of the river, I was greeted by the smell of mint. 

Stones in the river. 

Wild flowers still in bloom. 

Golden leaves reflect the sun. 

Fiery leaves amid the deep blue sky. 

The autumn sun. 

Under the Greene Street Bridge. 

The Greene Street Bridge reflected in the Spokane River. 

The Greene Street Bridge reflected in the Spokane River. 

The Max Snyder Building on the northern edge of campus. 

Little Spokane River

A Sunday afternoon hike by the Little Spokane River...

...with fall colors.

...and golden leaves.

The sun shining through a leaf. 

The river...

I found a cache of clam shells on the banks of the river. 

A freshwater clam shell...

Does anyone know this plant?

This plant has red berries.

And unusual leaves.

The blue sky reflected in the water. 

River Hike

The Spokane area has beautiful hiking trails, and some natural areas are hidden in the heart of the city. Yesterday afternoon, I hiked a trail along the Spokane River, starting near TJ Meenach Bridge. Natural springs flow from the hillside and a combination of native and naturalized plants are in flow bloom. 

The scenery is beautiful, but you might consider hiking this trail with a friend. 

The water level is high. 

The trail follows the river for several miles. 

White roses growing wild near the trail. 

White roses. 

The roots of a tree are exposed by flowing water. 

Wild flowers (weeds?)

The trees lean away from the hillside. 

Walking

Walking is therapy for the soul. It relieves stress 

and gives me a connection with nature.  

Oregon grape flowers with new leaves.

New leaves growing on the Oregon grape. 

Does anyone remember the name of this flower?

Or this one? 

Near the Little Spokane River.

Sunset near the Little Spokane River.

The soft colors of spring. 

...and more.

Just before sunset. 

Hog Canyon

My daughter and I visited Hog Canyon near the end of the day, and the setting sun caused the light to change from moment to moment. It was a beautiful sight!

And of course, I thought of my friend Adam who first introduced me to this place.