The black-chinned hummingbird dropped from his tomato cage perch to peruse the columbine, providing just enough time for me to snap a few photos as he hovered and dipped into the cone-like flower heads.

I have driven the North Touchet Road out of Dayton, intending to do the Maloney Mountain Road loop. It’s for anyone who can afford a tank of gas and doesn’t care if his car gets dirty.

The weather is ideal for this long drive through the Blue Mountains to celebrate the start of summer. Airy vistas and alluring views abound.

Any day of the week and any season of the year is a fine time to explore this wheat kingdom.

A loop from Waitsburg to Starbuck to Dayton and back to Waitsburg promises impressive views. 

It’s springtime in Walla Walla and the ducks of Garrison Creek are at it again.