rocky butte

rocky butte
Originally uploaded by Mary Anne Thygesen.

An extinct volcano in Portland Oregon Rocky butte is a popular place for rock climbing and star gazing. We like to go up there to watch the sun set. The 360 degree views of the lights around Portland were beautiful last night.
The official name of the park is Joseph Wood Hill Park. It is named after the man who founded a military academy on rocky butte that built the fortress on top. The walls of the fortress are good place to learn climbing skills. Mazamas offers climbing classes at Rocky Butte. www.mazamas.org
I have watched eclipses of the moon from up there. The local astronomy groups often host star parties on Rocky Butte. Take NE Freemont East from 82 to get up there. The park closes at midnight.