Brookings Oregon to Elk Prairie, California

The Majestic Redwoods

Friday, May 9, 2014
Brookings Oregon to Elk Prairie Campground in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, California
68 Miles

This morning we said goodbye to Oregon and left with a very long list of beaches. trails and campsites that we hope to explore at another time.  Cycling the Oregon coast surpassed all of our expectations....it was a thrill and something we will never forget.  Thank you Oregon!

Our morning ride was fantastic!  We entered sunny California (not so sunny today, but not torrential rain, so we are happy!) The first leg of our ride covered 20 miles off US 101 on country back roads.  It was such a welcome break from the highway and we enjoyed meandering through the gently rolling farmland.  After about 29 miles we returned to the beach.  As we rounded the bend we heard what had to be scores of sea lions barking.  We couldn't resist stopping to enjoy second breakfast on the beach.....coffee, oatmeal and fruit with a panoramic ocean view.

The highlight of the day, and maybe even the trip was our first taste of the redwoods.  We have always felt drawn to the redwood forests in Northern California.  There is something about these massive trees that sparks the imagination.

Redwoods - Northern California

We felt very privileged to be cycling through Redwood National and State Parks - a world Heritage site and International biosphere reserve.

Today was perfect - there was almost a spooky feel to the forest.  As we climbed higher the mist and fog thickened and there was a calm, eerie feeling in the air.

We were extremely lucky as traffic was light and we could really enjoy the ride.  The only thing disturbing the peace and tranquility was the sound of us gasping for air.  We had to climb 1,100 feet over a triple summit after leaving Crescent City.  Our legs were dead!  However, on the bright side, what goes up must come down and we enjoyed the steep descent, watching the miles tick away effortlessly.

Rob looking forward to the 2 miles descent!

Our free fall was briefly interrupted by Rob's somewhat urgent need to change brake pads - yikes.  This is definitely not the spot to be losing your braking ability.  We made a mental note to check all brake pads BEFORE steep descents, NOT during.

The end of the day found us travelling along the Newton B Drury Scenic parkway.  AMAZING!   Miles of lush forest, walls of ferns at least 30 feet high, each tree larger and more majestic than the last.  We joked that it was a forest on steroids.

We were quite shocked and saddened to learn that the Newton B Drury parkway is closed at night because of tree poaching.  To quote, "This closure is in response to a significant increase in wood poaching crimes occurring along the parkway. These crimes usually involve cutting burl and bunion growths from both standing and fallen old-growth redwood trees. The wood is then sold for construction materials, ornamental furniture, and souvenirs. This type of wood is becoming increasingly rare and the most plentiful supply is often found on park lands.  Much of the illegal poaching occurs at night. The closure is a proactive step toward preserving our State's priceless natural resources."

We ended our day at the Elk Prairie campground, home to a herd of Roosevelt Elk who were once on the brink of extinction, but are now thriving!

Elk Prairie Campground, California

Giggle of the day:

After descending from the Crescent City Hills we encountered Paul Bunyan and Babe at the Trees of Mystery tourist attraction.  We both burst out laughing as Paul Bunyan and Babe had played such a huge part in our cycle tour last year in Minnesota.

Paul Bunyan and Babe

Although, this may be a giggle, it is also, in our opinion a sad commentary on how we have become so disconnected from nature.  Our apologies for sounding "preachy" here.....but, we had cycled for miles in the majestic redwoods past countless trail heads, scenic pullouts and information kiosks and not a soul was in sight.  However, at the Trees of Mystery roadside attraction the parking lot was full. Enough said!