Wandrer: July 2013

On the road Washington; Hoh Rainforest

Backpacking in the Hoh rainforest. Very beautiful place with glacial rivers, lots of wildlife, and vivid greens in every direction. The best part was the berries along the trail, we didn't even have to carry snacks. We hiked up to Elk Lake elevation 2670'

On the road Washington; La Push, Forks

We continued south down the Washington coast until we arrived at La Push. First, Second, and Third beach are all amazing. We spent the night at third beach.

Backpacking down to Third Beach. There were several backpackers who were backpacking down the three beaches, this involved walking on the highway at times. To overnight at Third Beach we were required to use a bear container for our food.

We found a perfectly secluded gravel bar off of a forest service road outside of Forks, WA. We spent a few weeks here while waiting for a package to be forwarded to us. This time gave us an opportunity to reorganize the van and get things aired out. Unfortunately, after waiting for what seemed to be too long we contacted the post office to see if the package had been sent. They still had it sitting in Bend, OR waiting for pickup... Lesson learned; don't rely on the postal service. Forks was however a beautiful place to spend some time, with many interesting people.

On the road Washington; Olympic Peninsula 1

One of our first stops after exploring some seaside towns was the Dungeness Spit. It is a 5 mile hike down a rocky beach. We decided to go against the guides opinion and go that night instead of waiting for low tide. The way out wasn't bad if you don't mind the feeling of walking down a treadmill of beach. It felt like it was never going to end. It was a very beautiful walk down the beach and left us feeling like we were hiking out into oblivion.

Upon reaching the lighthouse we didn't have too much time to hang out and enjoy. The tide was coming back in and unless you want to be stuck traversing huge drift logs on the beach it was time to head back.

The hike back was grueling through loose pebbles and rocks that slid every time you step. It was super strenuous but fun, and I would consider doing it again. Just be sure to plan your trip with the tides as it adds stress when you are racing to get back to dry land.

We were able to wake up to ocean front views almost every day while we were out on the peninsula.

On our way out to the NW corner of the US we were able to drive through many beautiful forests, even better the weather was great.

We harvested some mussels and enjoyed them with a bottle of wine and a small campfire on the beach.

Neah Bay/Cape Flattery, the NW corner of the US. Amazingly beautiful place on an Indian Reservation. If you have the time check it out. Be sure to buy your Makah Tribe visitors pass. They sell them at the convenience store, and helps keep this amazing place beautiful.