I was determined, this year, to visit the Enchanted Forest.
My last visit was sometime before 1983, when the Ice Mountain Bobsleds ride was built. But my memories and interest were piqued anew two years ago when Roger Tofte, the creator of the Enchanted Forest, made a special appearance at the Charles Phoenix show in Portland. When the park opened for the 2010 season in March, I began strategizing. Finally, I found my opportunity this week. Heather and I both took a day off work to celebrate her birthday, which fell on Tuesday this year. After a morning trip to another of our favorite places, Bob’s Red Mill, we jumped into the Saabaru and pointed ourselves South. Heather appeared skeptical of the Happiest Place off of I-5 in Oregon, but I believe the trip turned her into a fan.
We couldn’t have asked for better weather. It was warm and sunny, but the Enchanted Forest really is in a forest, so it was easy to stay cool in the shade. Our adventure began, of course, at the Castle, which welcomes visitors to Storybook Lane.
Below, I prepare to enter the Castle. As you can see I’m wearing appropriate Oregon amusement park togs – my Pixieland t-shirt from Vintage Roadside!
Heather began to sense the magic almost immediately upon our arrival.
The Crooked House was one of my favorites when I was a kid. Still is. The first house I owned had similar structural integrity.
The Witch is one of the most iconic, creepiest and wonderful parts of the Enchanted Forest.
We had a great time. I finally experienced the Haunted House, which as a kid I was too terrified to enter. I was a bit disappointed, however, because it was too dark to really see anything – maybe I’m just too old? The Western Town and Old Europe Village are both a hoot. Perhaps on our next visit we’ll get up the gumption to go on some rides!
For more, read Heather’s Mile73.com post: Enchanted Birthday
Thanks to Trashbag for the Enchanted Forest photo at the top. The rest of the photos were taken by Heather or me.
Leave a Reply