Breitenbush Rising

Tucked away in the Oregon Cascade Mountains lies Breitenbush Hot Springs.  I’ve been going there mostly every winter for over 25 years for a getaway with friends and sometimes solo.  It is an intentional, off-grid community dedicated to living in harmony with nature and providing nurturing experiences to its guests.

In 2020 a catastrophic wildfire tore through the area.  Through massive efforts, Breitenbush is being rebuilt.  I just returned from a two-day stay there with a friend.

Breitenbush Rising

The fire left a mosaic
of green among black
surviving trees standing proud
above layers of ferns, mossy rocks, 
and the glossy red leaves of Oregon grape

I recognize familiar voices
chickadees, nuthatches, crows, and jays
busy among the treetops
as squirrels scamper below

Thanks to the bravery of a few souls
the stately lodge remains standing
the meals served there are
still ample, still delicious
with nary a scrap of meat

The stone-lined pools in the meadow 
and the hot tubs down the hill
offer respite to the body as they always have
their hot minerals sinking deep into muscles and soul 


We sleep in new lodgings
in the spot where forested rows 
of  boxy brown cabins once stood
and mice once played 
in the heart of night

The river still flows with vigor
a roar of rapids over stones 
unconcerned of the surrounding devastation
a vein of life in a wounded land
its soft breeze on my cheek reminding me 
that life goes on 
no matter how much pain we endure

the landscape has changed
as have we
destruction and rejuvenation 
stand side by side
as the earth's heart
beats strong and steady
beneath our feet

It’s good to be back