9.8.13 : venturing into oregon

On the morning of September 8th, I quickly made my coffee at the campsite and hit the road without dillydallying in anticipation of crossing into Oregon. I stopped for a photo by the sign and then crossed a bridge, descending into the most magical fog. I pulled off immediately, lucking into a empty state park right on the border that served as a perfect spot for a second cup of a coffee and some reflection on my trip so far. 

Knowing my destination was inland at my aunt and uncle's house (where I'm now temporarily residing), I made quick work of the coast, only turning the 4 hour drive into a mere 9 1/2 hours (a feat with how much exploring I do). 

The Oregon coast is something to behold. The scenery changes drastically within just a few miles, so it's hard to not pull off at every sign pointing you to a lookout. I made it up to Coos Bay before angling inland and was just blown away by the beauty I saw on the way.

9.6.13 : lighthouses and coastline.

On my way out of San Francisco, I took a detour that pointed me towards Point Reyes Lighthouse. Following the winding road ended up costing me about two hours of my time, but seeing it fog free (a rarity) made the trip well worth the loss. Passing only a few people on my way down the long staircase, I had the place to myself. A deafening foghorn sounded every few minutes, which rendered my hearing useless for a few seconds afterward each time it went off. It was a beautiful place that really did feel like it was at the ends of the earth. I can only imagine what a lonely existence living out there might have been at times.

The coastline varied greatly across the 200+ miles I drove that day, but it was as beautiful as ever. I arrived at Point Arena Lighthouse after it'd already closed, but as luck would have it, that granted me the ability to explore without any other people around. The coastline at that particular viewpoint would have been incredible to watch the sunset from, but alas, I needed to make camp before sundown and my destination for the night was another hour away.