2015-5 Scenic Coastal Hwy 1, Ft. Bragg to Leggett, California
Hello All,
On our third day in the Fort Bragg area we decided to drive scenic highway 1 northbound till it intersected with U.S. highway 101 near Leggett, California. The rugged coastline along this stretch of the state is pretty awesome. At Leggett we would spin around and backtrack to our home away from home in Fort Bragg.
Our first stop to stretch our legs and snap a few photos was at MacKerricher Park. We were blessed with another beautiful springtime day.
On our third day in the Fort Bragg area we decided to drive scenic highway 1 northbound till it intersected with U.S. highway 101 near Leggett, California. The rugged coastline along this stretch of the state is pretty awesome. At Leggett we would spin around and backtrack to our home away from home in Fort Bragg.
Our first stop to stretch our legs and snap a few photos was at MacKerricher Park. We were blessed with another beautiful springtime day.
The tide was going out exposing the rocky shoreline.
With the slacking tide there were tidal pools starting to appear. They are a good place to spot ocean creatures in the calm clear water.
It wasn’t long before harbor seals climbed up and flopped down on the rocks to bask in the sun. The only time they moved was when an occasional wave would break over the rocks disturbing their nap!
A rogue wave would occasionally come in breaking the peaceful calm of the morning. It was so relaxing and refreshing walking around the park taking it all in.
Continuing on our trek we stopped at any place that looked somewhat interesting to check it out thoroughly. The different seascapes seemed to be never ending.
Spring wildflowers were in bloom which added to the ambiance of the landscapes. We were having a wonderful time.
It is truly a spectacularly rugged coastline!
California poppies and giant red Indian paintbrush were just a couple of the wildflowers in bloom.
The California poppy is such a distinctive flower with its yellow-orange color. They always add a wonderful splash of color to a photo.
The brilliant red of the giant Indian paintbrush makes it really standout.
Places for safe heaven are limited in the area for mariners in foul weather. It is a very unforgiving coastline.
But, being safely on shore we found the area extremely beautiful to photograph. It is an area we would highly recommend for a mid-spring roadtrip.
Blooming iceplant always adds a bit of color to a photo.
But, there were many other plants in bloom throughout the area, such as the periwinkle in the following photo.
Below is a photo of the nasty star thistle. It is native to Europe but is rarely found there. It is a noxious weed. The sharp thorns around the flower have gotten the attention of many a hiker!
We stopped at the park at Westport Union Landing and strolled amongst the rock formations along the beach. It was very relaxing listening to the pounding of the surf--soothing to the soul.
This is our final coast shot along California’s Pacific Coast Highway for this little blurb. From this point the highway turns inland and eventually intercepts U.S. Highway 101.
As we proceeded inland we came upon a sign that said Redwood Grove. We pulled in to check out the redwood trees. We found the trees to be new growth and not real spectacular yet. In a few hundred years it will probably be a place to put on your bucket list.
However, we became infatuated with the forest floor around the trees. It was covered with vines and what appeared to be large clover--lovely artwork of Mother Nature.
However, we became infatuated with the forest floor around the trees. It was covered with vines and what appeared to be large clover--lovely artwork of Mother Nature.
Upon intercepting U.S. Highway 101 at Leggett we made our final stop for the day at Underwood Park. It is a lovely park and a great place to stop for a picnic lunch. Trust us when we say the Haagen-Dazs ice cream bars sold in the gift shop were pretty tasty also.
The park is known for its drive-through redwood named the Chandelier Tree. We took our turn at driving through it. It is believed to be one of only two such trees left along the Pacific Coast. It will accommodate a full size pickup—with the mirrors folded in. Our little SUV passed through without an issue. While it was a unique experience, we are glad that these colossal giants are no longer being carved up for monetary gain or show.
The park is known for its drive-through redwood named the Chandelier Tree. We took our turn at driving through it. It is believed to be one of only two such trees left along the Pacific Coast. It will accommodate a full size pickup—with the mirrors folded in. Our little SUV passed through without an issue. While it was a unique experience, we are glad that these colossal giants are no longer being carved up for monetary gain or show.
If you enjoy flowers you should consider riding along with us on our next adventure. We will be visiting the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens in Fort Bragg, California. Over 1,000 rhododendrons can be seen blooming throughout the gardens in the springtime.
Until next time,
Dave & Barb
The Traveling Browns
Until next time,
Dave & Barb
The Traveling Browns