Silver Falls National Recreation Trail - May 3, 2019

Fire has drastically altered the landscape around the falls compared to our first visit here five years ago. Considerable damage to the infrastructure occurred. Much has been repaired but there is still much to do. Nevertheless it was gorgeous, the day beautiful, and we were able to share it with friends.

There was considerable damage to railings.

new bridge

Another new bridge

Entiat River and Box Canyon.

Upper Skagit Bay - April 29, 2019

I joined Bob for my first paddle of the year on this beautiful day. We paddled from Ala Spit to Hope Island to investigate camping spots and then down to the Whole in the Wall near LaConner and back.

 The north bay on Hope Island

 The south entrance to the Swinomish Channel

 Bob passing McGlinn Island

 Finding a short-cut

Ruby Beach - April 22 & 24, 2019

Ruby Beach was our first stop on the coast on our way to Lake Quinault and became

our last stop on the way home because we enjoyed it so much the first visit. Where the trail hits the beach the tannin tinted Cedar Creek pools before flowing into the ocean. This calm, picturesque pond makes an interesting contrast to the pounding surf just beyond.

Abbey Island & Cedar Creek

Kalaloch to Browns Point - April 24, 2019

Kay was in her happy space walking this long, sandy beach. There was relatively little wind. Clear skies and perfect temperatures made this a delightful amble. Sculpted sandstone beach rocks gave an artistic feel to Browns Point.

If only trees could talk ...

Ochre sea stars in relative abundance were a pleasant surprise;

and an appropriate Easter story.