The Lost Coast

Those of you who have followed this blog for awhile know that there are days when I struggle to find something with which to fall in love.  Today was not one of those days.  Today I fell in love with too many things.  This post could have been titled "Land of the Pines," "Redwoods," "The Pacific Ocean," or many other things.

The day began with our scenic drive on SR299 along the Trinity River.  We drove through miles and miles and miles of pine forests, stopping a few times for breath-taking views.

Sam at Berry Summit

Two hours later, we were on the Pacific coast, specifically in Arcata, home of Humboldt State University.  I'd read about a sustainable community forest in Arcata, so we headed there.

Thus began our hike through Redwood Park, like walking inside a dream.  I have been in the Redwoods before, but I'd lost the understanding of how overpowering it can be to walk under the canopy of these giants.  It was breathtaking.

Leaving Arcata, we headed south on US101 to Eureka and then exited for Ferndale.  Ferndale is the sweetest little Victorian town you have ever seen, but it is also the gateway to The Lost Coast Highway, a "secret" road that leads to the Pacific Ocean.  I'd driven The Lost Coast Highway before, but I'd come in from the opposite direction.  It became pretty obvious to me that coming in from north to south was far more impressive.

Once we dropped down to sea level, we were able to pull over, tailgate some lunch, and then explore the beach.  The Pacific Coast bears little resemblance to the Atlantic Coast, especially in this remote area.  I have far too many photos to display here, but I will choose a few.

Stuff on the beach

Sam, King of the Mountain

Our journey continued on some crazy and winding roads down to Shelter Cove, where we settled in for the night at an oceanfront inn.  Cloud cover prevented us from witnessing our first Pacific sunset, but we didn't allow that to damper our love of The Lost Coast.

What an amazing day!