Wild Places
We never forget how fortunate we are to be surrounded by extraordinary wild places. We live in a land created by powerful geologic forces over millennia. The Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area formed from basalt from ancient lava flows sculpted by a powerful river. Mt. Hood, the state’s tallest peak and our most visited national forest. Flora and fauna that stir the soul from endangered steelhead to morel mushrooms and calypso orchids. Hiking trails that connect us to nature and to ourselves.
But even the most special places are never fully protected. They need all of us. For more than four decades, Thrive has worked to preserve our special wild places.
Mt Hood Land Trade
The Mt. Hood Land Trade is Thrive’s longest running project. When complete, the trade will preserve the wild north side of Mt. Hood for the American public and direct development instead to the resort community of Government Camp. The trade will give Wilderness designation to thousands of pristine backcountry acres around the historic Tilly Jane trail and protect the source of Hood River’s drinking water.
Punchbowl Falls County Park
Thrive is proud to have taken a lead role in creating Hood River’s newest park. Located near Dee 12 miles south of Hood River, Punchbowl Falls County Park can be found at the glacier-fed confluence of the Hood River’s East and West forks and its namesake wide-basined waterfall. The trail system is shaping up nicely with two additions spurs planned for construction in 2019.