is the core of an ancient volcano. It is 850 feet high with a zigzagging trail to the top. The view is worth every step! It is made of columns of basalt, visible on the lower right.
These are the zigzag stairs on the trail to the top of Beacon Rock! There are over 50 switchbacks on the 1/2-mile trail.
Columbia River Gorge June 29, 2009 This is a common weed in the US. Vulgaris means "common".
