California Redwoods

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Hi everyone

Since our last postings, we had 3 great busy days at work.  Traffic and sales in the gift shop as well as tours have increased.  Schools are finally out for the summer in the area and there is no doubt families are on vacation.

On our first day off, we had plans and hotel reservations for one night in Crescent City, California.  (Feel free to pronounce the state as previous governor and actor, Arnold S. would have said it).  It was our 41st anniversary celebration gift to see the giant Redwoods.  Being only 160 miles away, we had to go into CA and Redwood National Park. 

One of best treat of this trip, was the drive there via HWY 101 the "Oregon Coast Scenic Byway" and in CA it is referred to as the "Pacific Coast Scenic Byway".  Here are some of our favorite spots along the way:







We went directly to the Park HQ Visitor Center.  We received great information about the park, how best to view it and a map with drawings and directions.  This lady was great.  She provided info on taking the "Howland Hill Rd."  A very narrow gravel road (10 miles)through the Redwoods, part of "Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park". The state park is within the National Park.  The best stopping points and hiking trails were pointed out by the park volunteer.  We followed her advice to the letter and we were not disappointed. Driving through the park on that road was a little harrowing at times, since it was a two way road!  This meant yielding to each other in many areas, to drive in between 2 trees that just allowed our truck to squeak through (with mirrors folded in!)

















You're unable to appreciate the size of these giants from pictures.  Many reach over 300 ft. and are over 1,000 years old.




 




One of the many down trees.  Notice diameter

Root of downed tree
















After our celebratory dinner at a local fish restaurant by the harbor, with many California Seals and Sea Lions resting on a floating dock across from our window table; we walked off dinner by visiting Battery Point Lighthouse. (Downtown Crescent City)  This lighthouse is only accessible by boat when tide is in; or walking across when the tide is out.  We were lucky enough to find tide was indeed out so we walked out to it





Wendy trying not to get feet wet...


 On the trip back home on the 101, we encountered a beautiful spot to stop and enjoy its beauty. 
Arch Rock




Gold Beach, OR bridge

Inland portion of 101 away from coast (numerous RVs on road)


Until next time....





Comments

  1. AnonymousJuly 3, 2018 at 3:23 PM

    Awesome Redwoods! Can't wait to see those one day. What a wonderful getaway you guys had for your anniversary. Thanks for sharing the amazing photos.
    Love you. hal

    ReplyDelete
  2. OIT and MeJuly 3, 2018 at 9:49 PM

    So gorgeous!

    ReplyDelete
  3. MMMJuly 4, 2018 at 12:28 AM

    Gorgeous pics. You guys looked so small next to trees. By the way, happy belated anniversary!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Patrick PecotJuly 6, 2018 at 2:04 PM

    Those Redwoods are truly majestic. As was the drive I'm sure. I just hope after the dawn of mass produced EVs, highways such as this remain traveled.

    ReplyDelete

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