We are now gone to Oregon and arrived in Brookings after a scenic drive through California’s majestic Redwoods National Forest. On our first day we were off to explore the beaches nearby. And there are lots of them.
The Oregon coast does not disappoint. It is rugged and punctuated by big waves crashing against the shore and the rocks, and the constant sea mist that floats by throughout the day highlighting the wonderful colours in the trees above and nature’s wild side.
Stepping out onto the beach at Lone Ranch State Park is like stepping into another world. Giant rocks are strewn throughout the ocean in front of you which disappear and reappear in the mist. The smell of the ocean is invigorating and even Gordie was energized by the walk along the beach. I don’t think we’ve seen Gordie dash around like Dasher in a long time, but he put on a big show for Bernadette and I. We expect he will now sleep for the next few days.
Our next beach visit was to Harris State Beach. The roadway entrance is special because you come to a fork and wonder if there really is a road on the other side of the rise in front of you, or not. In the distance, all you see is an expanse of blue ocean. It is stunning. Of course, I gave my thumbs up and we proceeded forward and found ourselves flying down a roller coaster run straight down to the beach. Bernadette grabbed her hand rail tightly and did her very best not to scream. I closed my eyes and started to scream.
When we finally arrived, I opened my eyes to discover that the beach proved worth the effort. I hoisted our beach chairs out from Bear (Note: we have names for everything. Bear is the name of our Nissan Armada which has proven to be a bear hauling Ladybug and us throughout our trip. Thank you to the folks at Burlington Nissan).
There were two paths to get to the beach. One was a very nicely sloped accessible ramp that was most impressive. The other was a narrow hardly used path shrouded in deep foliage on each side. Bernadette said matter of factly, “Lets take this one.” And started to walk down the narrow path.
I kept looking back at the nicely sloped path where all the other people were walking and proceeded to follow Bernadette and Gordie. And then it happened. My worst nightmare. An eight foot snake slithered across the path in front of us. Now it doesn’t matter that the snake took one look at us and scooted quickly into the foliage. It’s a snake! And I don’t like snakes. And Bernadette knows this. So she quickly picked up Gordie and said, “Quick. Let’s go back to the other path! Peter, you come too!”
I still shudder thinking about that slimmery snake and glad that my grand children didn’t see Papa so scared. They all love snakes and would be so disappointed to discover that their Papa is a chicken when it comes to snakes. I hope they never read this. Fortunately, many of them do not yet know how to read. But, there are a growing number who can. Ugh. I am doomed.
Harris Beach is spectacular especially for the giant jagged rocks that tower from the ocean. They form a sanctuary for a multitude of seabirds including colourful Puffins, Pelicans, Terns and many others. We sat in our chairs for hours not doing much but taking in the scene, watching the waves, feeling the breeze, marvelling at the surfers, and smiling at the young families enjoying their time together. It was so relaxing and peaceful we didn’t want to leave. Best of all, no snakes on the beach. I think.