I feel so lucky to get to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world (in my opinion) and this past weekend my husband and I celebrated our fifth wedding anniversary. One of the things I love most about my husband is that he loves being outside and exploring as much as I do. I’d much rather spend the weekend hiking and camping than getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of a city. So we opted to spend our weekend exploring the coastal side of the Olympic National Park.
We left late Friday night and drove out to the forest to one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. I think that one of the things that makes it so special is the fact that there is no cell service out there, so you are forced to actually connect with the person or people you are with. It’s funny how in such a technology driven time we can spend hours in the same room with someone and not interact with them at all. I appreciate unwinding and unplugging every now and then and our anniversary was the perfect time to do this!
We got up early on Saturday and headed west, all the way to the ocean. I’d never been out on this part of 101 so I was like a little kids constantly shouting and pointing things out to my husband, who is a saint to put up with me when I get like that! We drove down some roads we’d never driven down before and found some amazing places tucked out-of-the-way from regular traffic. We even saw a fox!
There aren’t a lot of businesses out that way so we stopped at the only restaurant for 50 miles, the Kalaloch Lodge. There we were presented an amazing view of the ocean while we ate our lunch. The food was spectacular, but nothing compared to the view!
Once lunch was over we decided to drive up to Ruby beach and see what all the fuss was about. While the beach was beautiful, and the ocean magnificent, there were at least 100 other folks clamoring to inhabit the same small space, which left a lot to be desired.
One our way back down the coast we stopped to see the giant cedar tree, which was a short walk from the parking lot, but a magnificent sight to behold! It looks as though part of the tree has recently broken off, which gives you a up-close look at just how big the tree is. The trail continued another 1/4 mile past the tree and then dead ended rather abruptly.
Not satisfied with just that one little jaunt we drove further back down the coast in search of the floating tree cave. Not knowing where I was going, or what I was looking for this became quite the adventure! As it turns out this magnificent tree is located only 50 feet from the base of the steps leading to the beach at the Kalaloch Campground day use area. The earth beneath this tree gave out many years ago and in a show of sheer determination and desire to live the roots clung to the remaining bluff. What remains is one of the most amazing displays of nature that I have seen, and an absolute must see if you are even remotely close to the area!
We decided to round out the day with a final hike and opted for the 1.5 mile nature loop trail that starts right across the street from the campground. There is no parking at the trail head, and only the smallest of signs so don’t despair if you can’t find it. You can park at the lodge and take a short walk down the side of the road to the trail head. As soon as you step into the forest you are transported in time. The there is something magical about the old growth with hanging moss and mushrooms everywhere. The trail is well maintained and there are several fun steps, bridges and raised paths to explore.
Since this was a special trip, celebrating a milestone number of years as husband and wife, I snuck a little gift out for my husband. I thought it would be fun to pick out a “traditional” gift for him, and was so happy when I discovered that the traditional gift for fifth anniversaries was wood. I had heard wonderful things about Jord and after looking through their website I was impressed with the options available. I finally settled on the Fieldcrest series Dark Sandalwood with Onyx. The shipping was super fast, which was lucky because I am a notorious procrastinator and it arrived just in time for out trip. Needless to say, my husband was blown away at the quality and craftsmanship of the watch and so was I! I think I might need to get myself one now, because I’m totally jealous of his.
All in all, the Olympic National Park and Washington coast are one of my favorite places to adventure, and I couldn’t have asked for a better getaway!
If you are looking for other awesome destinations in Washington check out my post on Vashon Island!
You might also like to explore Mt. Rainier.
Or maybe even Mount Saint Helens!
The northern Washington coastline is so incredible gorgeous. Great job showing off the rugged beauty. Olympic National Park is a true treasure. Just love that place!