Overall, I like Northern California better than the rest of the state. Besides the amazing national parks in the south, it is prettier, greener here. As for hiking, there is not as much variety. There are no mountain peaks, but you can hike the coast. Most of the trails are through these wonderful Redwoods. Today, we drive about 1 hour north to Jedidiah Smith state park. Here the redwoods are supposed to be redder. Our first trail, Stout grove, was amazing. There was not as much underbrush so you get a better look at the trees. Maybe they are a bit redder. Amber is disappointed, she was hoping that these trees would have a stronger reddish tint than they do. Thus, she eventually states that she liked the sequoias better. For me, both trees are fantastic. However, her common, every 5 minute refrain comes back. “That’s a big tree. That’s a big one.”
This section of the redwoods is also known for its river that passes through, the Smith river. On the visit, we find a beach along the river, get our feet in the water, and spend about 15 minutes trying to skip rocks. Josh and I make everything into a competition: the best throw, the most skips, etc. I judge the competition a tie, but I must admit we both need to work on skipping rocks.
One thing I really like about this area of California is that it is right on the beach. We don’t just get to hike through the forest, but also explore the coast. Again, we walked, enjoy the beach, walked out on a jetty, and discover a lighthouse.
Our dinners may have been best here in the Redwoods, This is the second day for seafood, I enjoy my Halibut quite a bit. Also, the clam chowder has been good.