daytrip, cont.
Bloomsbury Old Man Pass Sno-Park, elevation 3,040 feet. More than 25 miles of cross country ski trails ripple through old-growth groves of western red cedar and Douglas fir trees. There’s also a play area for thrill-seekers on sleds and inner tubes. If you are a novice skier, opt for the easy 1.2-mile loop through the forest with a spectacular view of Mt. Adams. For the hardier spirit and more experienced skiers, you can swish by more landscape on the 5.7-mile route. After you crisscross over the snow and through the woods, head back to discover the charms of Stevenson. First stop? Bloomsbury of Kanaka Creek Farm (240 S.W. Second St., 509-427-4444, bloomsburyshop.com). Originally a blacksmith’s shop, this home and garden store is like the Anthropologie of the Columbia River Gorge, filled with clothes, accessories and home decor. If you need a holiday gift for a sister, aunt, mom or wife, you can find it here — even vegan leather purses. Around the corner, Lesley’s Books (240 S.W. Second St., 509-4274463, lesleybooks.com) features an 46
MIXpdX.coM DECEMBER 2012