giant redwoods

We drove away from the Pacific coast to see 

the huge redwood forests in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Once again our spectacular planet overwhelmed us.

Californians can surf one day, ski in the mountains the next, and hike in the forest on the weekend.

We could only spend one day hiking along side the giant redwoods of California. 

But still, after only this wee bit of time, there is need for words...

the town of Boulder Creek was quaint, and well, woody

workmen keep the trees trimmed for highway saftey

The Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a treasure - imagine the lucky people that get to work here!

as usual, park displays were lovingly created and cared for

there is a full program of park hikes led by knowledgeable park rangers

and these are just the pine cones (the seeds)!

hiking was so much fun even if sometimes challenging

A camp ground - park your car at the left and pitch your tent under the canopy of green- lovely.

dappled sunlight - dreamy

 But don't forget to look down; many creatures live here.

the 2nd largest species of slug, the banana slug can grow to be almost 10 inches long

our reward at the half way point of the hike

as trees die, moss and fungi help them to decompose

some lucky people live just outside the park on the mountain side

Many Americans love to keep fit and they happily bike up these mountains.

After a day with these gentle giants you feel it - peace, man!