Jennifer at Pacific Ocean near Klamath River
There are some California attractions that folks visit constantly such as Yosemite or Death Valley, not realizing what other beauty they may find in this diversely wild and gorgeous state. One overlooked place is the Klamath River, well north of Eureka, heading toward the Oregon border. The river meanders through inland California and Oregon, finally descending and plunging in to the Pacific Ocean, making a devine site to witness.
When driving north on Highway 101, you have arrived when you cross the Klamath River Bridge with the welcoming of two golden bears posted on each side. Once across, you enter the town of Klamath, a very small, isolated hamlet. A few miles up the road, turn left to discover the historical, cozy Requa Inn several miles back off of the road. It’s a charming place to stay, perched on the hillside over the Klamath River, only a few blocks from where the river enters the mighty Pacific Ocean. The rooms are bright, cozy Victorian retreats making for a romantic getaway or just a place to rest your tired body from the churn of civilization. ( http://www.requainn.com)
Requa Inn
Once in the area, there is a multitude of hiking destinations surrounding you. You can hike in the beautiful Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park with miles of quiet, undiscovered coastline and beaches, scads of forested trails and beautiful park roads running along the sea or tucked away in the forest. My favorite hike was a walk through Fern Canyon in the slowing dripping drizzle. Simon and I dressed according to the weather, putting the hoods of our rain shells on our heads, scarves around our necks and went for it. The trail was sensational with basalt walls extending upward supporting fern growth in the various crevices. It was also enjoyable to walk through the redwood forests and along the coast watching the sea crash in on the sandy beaches with their interspersed protruding rocks. Within the park, there are various meadows where one can see Roosevelt Elk grazing, resting and foraging. They lazily meander around in the sometimes brightly flowered terrain. Take some time at Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park. There are numerous redwood groves descending down to the quiet beaches backed by the songs of the pounding ocean and seabirds flitting along the shore. Don’t forget Enderts Beach! In addition to everything else to do, drive down through Humboldt Lagoons State Park on Highway 101 along the serene ocean shores and stop at the various lots to take peaceful, invigorating walks on the lovely beaches.
Klamath River
Take a long weekend away from San Francisco, San Jose or Sacramento to enjoy the delights of what this extraordinary part of our state has to offer.
Pacific Ocean near Klamath River
California Gypsy 