A View From the Top (Beacon Rock)

“A river cuts through rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence.”

--Jim Watkins

Summer is almost over, so we're trying to enjoy the remaining sunny days. Last weekend, we went to Beacon Rock, and it's been on my bucket list ever since, but we never got a chance since we're always busy. We always pass by this place when we go to Bridge of God and I always wonder how it will be like to be on top of this big rock. As an added bonus it's located in the Columbia Gorge, which is one of the prides of the Pacific Northwest. This is one of my favorite places; with its breathtaking view and majestic mountains.

Halfway up

Overlooking the view 

The bridge

The top of Beacon Rock

It was scary at first, but it was worth it when we reached the peak. The view was spectacular and it felt like we  were on top of the world. I wanted to give up when we went halfway, since I felt lightheaded, but my daughter urged and encourage me to go on. I realized that the only way to overcome your fear is to face it. It's the same thing in life. Reaching for your dreams is like mountain climbing; it can be rough and perilous, but when you attain it, it's the best feeling in the world.

History

Beacon State Park is located in 34841 SR 14 Skamania, Washington. It was originally named by Lewis and Clark on October 3, 1825.

On 1811 Alexander Ross of the John Jacob Astor expedition called the rock Inoshoack Castle. It was known as Castle Rock until in 1916, the United States Board of Geographic names restored the name Beacon Rock.
Henry J Biddle purchased the rock in order to build a trail to the top. The trail was built, and in 1935 his heirs turned the rock to the state for uses as park.

Random pictures and a picnic at the end