savvynomadadventures

We’ve been blessed with stellar weather this entire trip. So we can’t complain that when we journeyed to Ruby reach we couldn’t see s*#t because the fog was so thick you could cut it with a knife. Ruby Beach is the Northernmost beach on the Southern tip of the coastal region in the OP. It’s noted for its ruby like crystals that pepper the sand and its’ considerable amount of sea stacks. The air was heavy and clammy as we explored this vast beach. As our eyes started to adjust, a mystical picture was painted before our eyes. Geological stacks towering up towards the sky meet a driftwood laden shoreline with brackish springs spouting out from the seaside forest. We hiked along the coast collecting walking sticks and treasures, making art and patiently waiting for the fog to disperse. It never happened so we decided to head down the road a few miles to check out “The Tree of Life” located at Kalaloch Beach.

Kalaloch Beach-The Tree of Life

The Tree of Life is yet another wonder of this beautiful State of Washington. Located on Kalaloch Beach, this extraordinary tree is a Sitka Spruce, the largest of the Spruce family. Absolutely stunning and seemingly defying all odds, this tree seems to magically float using its winding roots to cling to the coastal bluff. The entanglement of roots below the tree lead to the Tree Root Cave. The cave is fed by a fresh water spring that it said to give the tree the nutrients that it needs to survive. This is certainly is a special place. I’m in LOVE with Washington State!

Lake Quinalt-Hikes, Kayaks and a Windstorm

We opted to stay at the historic Lake Quinalt Lodge, nestled between the Quinalt Rainforest and the southern shores of Lake Quinalt. Built in 1926 and rich in architectural design, this place invokes an eerie feeling. Upon first encounter, it feels haunted, and reminds me of the shining. Spooky…I like it.

There are heeps of adventures awaiting you in the Lake Quinalt area. We opted for a few day hikes through the Quinalt Rainforest, took a trip to the World’s Largest Spruce Tree, and kayaked through a windstorm on the Lake.

This tree is over 200 feet tall and 1000 years old! Insane in the brain!

The Kayak Experience-The boat rental dude asked us if we were solid kayakers and we were like “duh, bro..we’re from San Diego”. Well, what he didn’t tell us is that the Lake is deceiving. She is roaring with rip currents that pull you in one direction, while gusts of wind come from seemingly nowhere and yank you in the other direction. It felt like our kayak was drunk. We were paddling for dear life for 30 minutes straight trying to get across to the other bank. Our arms were burning and turning to jelly when I finally realize we were in the same spot as were were 30 minutes prior. WHAT THE ACTUAL F*%K. We ultimately gave up on crossing the lake and opted for more of a “cruise” along the shoreline (which was no slice of cake either). Super fun but we may not be able to use our arms for a few days. Now off to Mt. Rainier for the last leg of our trip!