Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Coastal Trail, Redwood National and State Parks

 

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The Redwood Park complex is made up of four separate units, Redwood National Park itself, and four California state parks. Besides the stands of giant redwoods, the park contains 40 miles of coastline in northern California. We just happened to be very close to the Klamath section of the park, and access to the Coastal Trail.

We began our hike at the mouth of the Klamath overlook, where we had the pleasure of seeing gray whales. The trail has a half mile spur that descends to another overlook where we got an even better look at the whales and sea lions. They like to hang around the mouth of the river since the salmon fishing is good there.

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We saw at least four different whales.

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We climbed back to the main trail and hiked another couple miles through the trees where we had occasional ocean views. We could hear sea lions barking, and finally found a way to get close enough to see where they were.

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Scenes from the trail.

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Jim found this guy on the trail. Guess he wanted to go for a hike, too.

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Yesterday we went back to the park but on the south side of the river, where we were able to access the beach. There were lots of sea lions playing in the water and fishing, many birds, and crashing waves. We’re leaving California today, but are very happy we decided to stay along the coast. It’s been much better than we ever expected.

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14 comments:

  1. Exceptional photos of a beautiful and diverse area. Love all the critters - from whales to snails!! Glad Jim is doing well (I just got caught up this morning). Safe travels to Oregon. I'm glad you enjoyed our beautiful state.

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  2. That's a beautiful area there. We really enjoyed it. Great photos, and thanks for sharing.

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  3. Fantastic photos! I can't even pick out a favorite.

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  4. What a thrill to see the whales so close. We saw one when we were in that area.

    That snail looks HUGE!

    Great photos.

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  5. I just couldn't imagine that your trip could get any better and then you throw in whales. All I want to know is why am I not caravaning with you? Those waves are spectacular. All your pictures are so beautiful and I know the real thing was even better than that. You sure have changed my mind about spending time in California.

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  6. This is what I would call a perfect day filled with wildlife, greenery, the beautiful blue ocean, and hiking!! Doesn't get much better:)

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  7. That would be quite a thrill seeing the gray whales. And although I'm not a big fan of snails, that is a pretty one.

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  8. What a great hike! Loved your pictures!!!

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  9. Beautiful pictures! The coast in Northern California has just been delightful to see.

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  10. I really love that translucent wave! Wow, you guys really got to see a variety of sea life. I regret not having more time to spend along the coast, but I couldn't seem to drag myself out of the forest. Great spotting on the whales!

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  11. Great hike! Wonderful whale sighting!

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  12. Wonderful photos...and the whales, wow! Very cool, close up sightings! The anchor-shaped driftwood is neat!

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  13. We've enjoyed your trip up the coast. We look forward to seeing where you go next.

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  14. Who needs to pay for a whale-watching excursion when you can get it free trailside? Wonderful grouping of shots showing all the diversity.

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