Up in the Trees in Oregon: 6 Month Solo Road Trip

I finally made it

I finally made it

 

I can feel the tears of joy swell up as I see the Welcome to Oregon sign up ahead. It’s been a long journey to this point; not just in driving but planning the next chapter of my life. The western states always had a pull on my heart. Since I was a child I’ve wanted to explore it and now I have my chance.  I sit in my car and cry. The tears stream down my face as I realize my accomplishment. After a few minutes I emerge to feel the morning sun on my face and breathe in the heavenly smell of the trees.

A long driveway takes me to Out 'n' About Treehouses

A long driveway takes me to Out ‘n’ About Tree Houses

 

It’s a beautiful warm sunny day and I’m heading to Out ‘n’ About Tree houses in Cave Junction. I found it online and book a night. It’s off the beaten path but well worth the journey. As I drive on the gravel road I see horses in the pasture. In the summer they offer horseback rides and other outdoor activities but not in the winter, due to mud season.

IMG_2088I find a parking spot and get out. What a darling place, each tree house has its own personality. There are 18 in total varying in style, size and height off the ground. All have very interesting names such as Swiss Family Robinson, Yurtee, Peacock Perch to name a few. I walk towards the office which houses the eating area. The building reminds me something out of Hansel & Gretel with the steep gable ends and large A shed dormers. The dark wood siding and moss covered roof create a magical space hidden among the trees.IMG_2110

I check in. The woman at the front desk is friendly and gives me a tour of the grounds. She shows me my nest, the Pleasant Tree which is high above the trees. Metal stairs take me to a platform followed by more stairs. At the last platform there are tow swinging bridges. As I cross the bridge I hear the creaking and feel it sway under my feet (not for the faint hearted). I grab the railing as I bounce along to the treehouse. I feel like Tigger from Winnie The Pooh. IMG_2163

 

IMG_2109Finally, I’m on  solid ground as I step on to the small wooden porch of the treehouse.  There are two chairs and a small table on the porch with views of the property. The treehouse is a 12′ wide wooden octagon. A wooden door leads to the interior which has two bunkbeds, a mini fridge, a pedestal sink, and table in the main space with a small bath with shower and toilet. Above is a loft with queen size bed which is accessed by a wooden ladder.IMG_2082

I decide to sleep on the top bunk. I have a few more items I need to get from my car. Since it’s a haul I decide to only get items I really need as in food, toiletries, and overnight clothes. As I make my way back to the treehouse I see a small group dragging a large cooler over the swinging bridge. I watch for a few minutes and I’m thankful that I didn’t have to make many trips. I rather walk for recreation then drag my belongings.

As darkness approaches I join a group of people sitting around a campfire and have a few beers enjoying the night air. After a few hours of conversing I say good night and make my way back up. Thank God for my head lamp which helps me find my way back. Once inside I still feel the swaying but it subsides and I fall asleep fairly easily.

The morning light filtering through the trees awakes me. I hear people stirring below and drag myself out of bed. After a hot shower I dress and pack. I look around one more time and put on my backpack and head out the door. Its at this moment that I see a pulley system with bag which allows one to bring up and down belongings. Hmmm. next time I’ll use it I say to myself as I make my way back down to the car.

Before I leave for Ashland I enjoy a continental breakfast of hot cereal, toast and a cup of hot cocoa. After breakfast I walk around admiring the treehouses. What a wonderful concept for those who still have the kid in them. I will fondly look back on this unique opportunity. IMG_2196

About inthecompanyofnone

Residential Designer by Trade who also blogs about various topics. Just came back from a 6 month solo road trip which took me through 30 states and two international countries. Seeing the USA by road is amazing. It's so diverse in natural beauty and climate. Traveling solo allows me the freedom to go where and where I want without compromise. It's a sense of accomplishment to be able to travel in the company of none.

One Comment

  1. Hello! Cool post, amazing!!!

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