RA2: Lake Crescent
A very rainy night at Kalaloch, but it finally stopped. I slept quite well. Temperatures dropped into the mid-40s, but the sleeping bag was warm and the tent dry. I awoke around 5AM, dozed, and was all packed up by 6:30AM or so. Sure was a good thing the rains stopped.
Jack and I took a long 32 mile ride into Forks. The ride took us first along the coast and then through some breathtaking scenery within the Hoh Rain Forest. It is incredible to see how so many plant species crowd into every square inch of free soil, sapling pines and ferns among the most prevalent, but pretty flowers and huge broadleaf species too.
Some unexpectedly tough hill climbing was required to reach Forks, where we enjoyed our first meal of the day at a restaurant called The In Place. Then a trip to the grocery store for tonight’s dinner items (more PB&J, some raw mushrooms, pretzels, and other gourmet stuff). Jack and I finally found a cell phone signal and finally called our significant others.
Jack and I had been wondering who would get the first flat tire among the RA team, and soon enough Jack and a staple answered that question.
Another unexpectedly difficult 30 miles to tonight’s camp at Lake Crescent, a place called Fairholm Campground. 66 miles today, another long day.
Even compared to last night’s camp on the ocean, this campground is the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. Words or pictures can’t do it justice. And we had the whole place to ourselves. The photos here give just a hint, and by the way the water really is this magnificent blue color. We learned that Lake Crescent is a glacial lake more than 600 feet deep, and the amazing blue color is simply due to a lack of nitrogen in the water.
If there is a downside to this camp, it’s the temperature. We’re already well down in the 40s and it is only 7PM. We might even get into the 30s tonight so it will be a test of the camping gear. Glad I brought those wool socks.
excellent write up Rich, All looks SO beautiful, not sure I like the 40 temps…LOL
OK, you’re making me sorry I didn’t start in Oregon. See you tomorrow at Rasar Park. We plan to arrive late afternoon..Jesse
Wow! Unbelievably beautiful sight. Love the pic out your tent window. Keep warm. Love you.
Jesse, we’ll look forward to giving you a personal report tomorrow! We’ll probably be in late afternoon, maybe 6PM or so, as I have an errand to run in Port Townsend.
Ed, We had 38F last night – read the next day’s post (once I post it). Glad to hear the Usery ride went well – sorry I missed it but you know I’m not THAT sorry (ha-ha).
Linda, I’d be a lot warmer if you were in that sleeping bag with me.
Rich – Did see any vampires in Forks?
Like Linda, I loved that view of your wool socks looking out the tent window. Lake Crescent is gorgeous. Thanks for the pictures that make us feel a part of your trip.
Thanks Mom. The photos never quite capture the real views, but sometimes they come close!
Wendell, we didn’t see any vampires, but I did see a big cheeseburger there. In any case, I’m glad we didn’t camp there (grin).