OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK, WA :: I joined a few buddies from work for a weekend at Point of Arches and Shi Shi Beach, certainly one of the most spectacular beaches in the world. No, the water is not warm and clear, and the sand is not white and soft, but this narrow crescent of coastline is more alive and wild than most. With the impenetrable rainforest on one side and the seemingly infinite Pacific Ocean on the other, this tenuous boundary is always an exciting place. It is where one can witness the Earth’s engine in motion, driven by celestial gears and pistons extending to the Moon, the Sun and the galaxies beyond. It is a powerful nexus where land, sea and the heavens abruptly meet. It is where nature reminds us that she is in charge and we are her humble tenants.
Our three days and two nights were filled with a mix of exercise, exploration, relaxation and rejuvenation. We passed the time with jokes, conversation, chess, footbag, sand sculptures, and grand bonfires (and much drinking!). Despite the limited sunshine, it was an awesome weekend. The nearly constant fog contributed to the insular and introspective mood, but we were glad to see it lift. It gave way on the second night, offering us a filtered sunset and a clear view of the cosmos. We watched the Milky Way, heard the crashing ocean, and felt the blaze of the fire. I doubt there are many experiences on this planet that are more sublime.
Our three days and two nights were filled with a mix of exercise, exploration, relaxation and rejuvenation. We passed the time with jokes, conversation, chess, footbag, sand sculptures, and grand bonfires (and much drinking!). Despite the limited sunshine, it was an awesome weekend. The nearly constant fog contributed to the insular and introspective mood, but we were glad to see it lift. It gave way on the second night, offering us a filtered sunset and a clear view of the cosmos. We watched the Milky Way, heard the crashing ocean, and felt the blaze of the fire. I doubt there are many experiences on this planet that are more sublime.
Some very cool pics John. Looks like a fun trip and the weather (at least for photos) ideal. Some of those shots are very surreal.
Wow – those sunset shots are just jaw droppingly beautiful, John. Your description greatly reminds me of my short time on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Thanks for sharing as always.
What do you guys use for water treatment in your outdoor endeavors? Great Shots BTW
Thanks for the comments, guys!
Zac, I use the First Need Portable Purifier:
http://www.rei.com/product/767831
It’s a little bulky and heavy, but it pumps fast and can filter out viruses and chemicals. It literally is a purifier, not just a filter.
John
Damn it John, why aren’t you a travel writer?! Beautiful, as always – c/g/b
Stumbled across your blog while searching for black sand beach photos. Your photos are amazing. I envy that you get to travel and see all this with your own eyes, but thanks for taking photos to share with those of us who can’t.
Hi john-
as always, beautiful pics. are you primarily using your rebel for the majority of your shots? the details are amazing. they seem too sophistictated for an elph.
keep posting. i rarely travel any more.
Thank you again, everyone!
Yes, Lynn, the Rebel XT is still my primary camera. I’ve been shooting with it for the past three years and I think it might be time for an upgrade soon.
John