Departing Shepperd's Dell
... ... ...
The highway, directly in front of us, curves around an enormously large rock, called Bishops Cap, which is the end of a Basalt lava flow, and forms the east gateway to Shepperd's Dell.
See pictures. Bishop's Cap.
Todays road builders would likely go right through the rock. But that's what makes the Columbia Gorge so fascinating. If at all possible, the highway designers tried to emphasize the natural beauty of the Gorge.
The resulting 'half-tunnel' has become a featured landmark along the highway.
Notice the edge of the turn, the sturdily designed stone railing, rock barriers, and retaining walls.
These have become the signature of the Historic Highway.
The skilled hands responsible for this artfully done work, belonged to Italian stonemasons.
Our next stop, is Bridal Veil Falls, about 3 minutes ahead. We will start that intro now.
Does anyone have any questions?
The highway, directly in front of us, curves around an enormously large rock, called Bishops Cap, which is the end of a Basalt lava flow, and forms the east gateway to Shepperd's Dell.
See pictures. Bishop's Cap.
Todays road builders would likely go right through the rock. But that's what makes the Columbia Gorge so fascinating. If at all possible, the highway designers tried to emphasize the natural beauty of the Gorge.
The resulting 'half-tunnel' has become a featured landmark along the highway.
Notice the edge of the turn, the sturdily designed stone railing, rock barriers, and retaining walls.
These have become the signature of the Historic Highway.
The skilled hands responsible for this artfully done work, belonged to Italian stonemasons.
Our next stop, is Bridal Veil Falls, about 3 minutes ahead. We will start that intro now.
Does anyone have any questions?
