Redwood National Park is in the very northwest corner of California, home to the tallest trees on the planet. And for me, it was a highlight of what turned out to be an almost seven-week Scamp.
I saw a lot of beautiful places, but the redwoods were extra special. Maybe it was the fog, or the winding paths, or the stillness, but the place felt like some sort of mystical sanctuary. A place, like with those ancient Sequoias to the south, overflowing with wisdom and solace.
I’m not kidding – I was teary almost the entire time I was there, it was that powerful.
I hiked a trail called Damnation Creek, because with a name like that, who wouldn’t?
The way in.
And then it was just fog-shrouded redwoods, like a prayer.
Safe haven.
I’m home now – whew! – and will finish processing the rest of the photos from all the parks in the next couple weeks and sharing them here. It was an amazing Scamp, and I know I’m biased but the American West is truly one of the most beautiful places anywhere. I’m grateful to have seen so much of it this time.
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very beautiful – looking forward to seeing more.
ron
Ron – Thank you! I’ve got a lot to process from the trip, in all ways. It was amazing.
When I was a kid, my parents used to like to take “Sunday drives.” I thought they were boring as hell. Until the time we went to the redwoods. I think I was about eight years old. That was the first time I understood “appreciating the scenery.” They’re still my favorite.
Deborah – Love that! Sounds like you just had to find your scenery. 🙂
I agree the west is totally scenic and even though I squished my “camp” into 2 weeks we thoroughly enjoyed all we saw. I so adore your photos and the fog ones were spectacular. How was the “people factor” in the redwoods? I hope to see them but I can’t deal with hoards of tourists either.
Sherry in MT recently posted…Campground Entertainment
Sherry – I’m disappointed we couldn’t connect on the road! Next time. 🙂 Two weeks is still a good chunk of time for exploring, and I bet you had a great time. The redwoods weren’t that crowded, and this trail in particular wasn’t. I ran into maybe three people the entire time, probably because it’s one of the more vigorous hikes and gets steep toward the bottom. Recommended!
The redwoods were magical. I cannot imagine beings on this planet that are that old. I hugged more than a few!
Emilie Vardaman recently posted…Yachats
Emilie – I know, it’s amazing. So much that they must’ve seen! I hugged some too, and thanked them for existing. 🙂
Oh, the Sequoias. Sigh. How I adore and miss them.
Susan – They’re truly amazing. I can’t wait to get back.