A California Redwood Forest

En route to California along the Oregon coast.

Some areas along the coast remind me of Planet of the Apes.

Traveling south out of Oregon, we ventured towards Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, outside of Crescent City, California. After paying an $8.00 entry fee (well worth it) we embarked on a hike to see a pristine, crystal clear river running through a giant redwood lined forest. 

I wish this photo could capture the sheer beauty of the water - it was literally twinkling with various shades of blue and green; Mark was in awe.

The ancient redwoods can be as old as two thousand years and when you look up at their height of 200 feet it’s a bit dizzying. These trees start their life similar in size to a tomato seed. Mother Nature...you never cease to amaze me.

  

Mark looks like a Lilliputian from Gulliver's Travels.

A cluster of Redwoods is called a grove.

This is the base/roots of a fallen Redwood! I love this photo.

Off the beaten path...we ventured off the trail (not recommended) and wound up walking along the river on very uneven rocks. To get back on track, we trekked through tall brush and bushes about 200 yards down.
Luckily we didn't come into contact with poisonous oak .

The foot bridge we crossed that links the walking path to the Redwood grove.

Throughout our hike, I kept repeating, “this is an enchanted forest” since it was so serene, tranquil, and majestic. Although it was a quick day trip, this was definitely a highlight. 

Self proclaimed Tree Hugger.

Heading back into Oregon to venture towards Crater Lake (recommended by Barbara Caldwell – thank you, Barbarella).

Ciao’ for now : )