Above is this weeks free desktop. Back once again to a truly beautiful place in the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. For those unfamiliar with the Columbia River Gorge, it's a magnificent 80 mile long, up to 4000ft deep river canyon which cuts through the volcanic rock of the Cascade Mountains. As Columbia River is the only sea-level river running through the Cascades, it is an important transportation corridor, as much today as it was in the past. There are many points of interest in this area, and to name just a few: the view of the Gorge at Vista House on Crown Point is not to be missed; Bonneville Dam - not a natural wonder, but an impressive piece of work none the less (and you can go the the fish ladders viewing area for a close up, entertaining experience); Multnomah Falls and the other 76 falls on the Oregon side; Beacon Rock, a 848 ft remnant of an ancient volcano (it's possible to climb to the top of it and gain a unique perspective of the gorge); plus miles of hiking trails. The photo this week is from the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge at Multnomah Falls, the fifth largest waterfall in the US (second highest year-round waterfall). It is actually comprised of an upper fall at 542 feet and a lower fall of 69 feet, with a combined total of 621 feet. There is a one mile long, rather steep trail that takes you to the top, and it is well worth the hike as you're treated to being just a few feet from the edge where the water plunges over, creating this masterpiece. It is an awesome experience. Wonder what it looks like up there? Well below are two shots taken at the top. The first is of the water rushing over the edge (see how close you get) and the second is of the view back toward the parking areas, I-84 and the river (to give you a perspective of height). The view west down the Columbia River is wonderful, but you'll have to make the trek yourself, I'm not going to give you that one. (; Honestly, there is so much to do and see in the Columbia River Gorge, it would be easy to spend 2-3 days here just hitting the high points. Now, if you find yourself around Portland, OR with a couple of free days on your hands, take I-84 east on the Oregon side or Route 14 on the Washington side and be prepared for some amazing sights.