Here are some pictures from a new trip we did in July. The trip took us in a circle from San Francisco up the North Coast, through the Trinity Alps, around Mount Shasta and finally to Lassen Volcanic National Park.

After leaving San Francisco, we reach the Humboldt Redwoods, which are as beautiful as always. We do many hikes and spend time on the Eel River, swimming and watching birds.

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This place is called the Women’s Federation Grove. It has this beautiful fireplace that was built renowned San Francisco Architect, Julia Morgan who also designed the Hearst Castle. Julia Morgan studied at the Beaux-Arts of Paris and was the first woman architect licensed in California.

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On the Eel River, I spot this huge bird, some kind of Heron.

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This is our swimming spot!

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You notice very fast that you are in Big Foot country…. or that gifts usually involve wood, and something very weird or different.

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The next day, we head out to Ferndale, near Eureka. Ferndale is a very pleasant little town where you can a lot of historical Victorian buildings. It has a main street with lots of good places to eat. You feel you have stepped back in time when you are there.

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After Ferndale, we set our path to Arcata, North of Eureka, which is another very nice little town with a very vibrant artist community. The Farmers Market is happening on the main town square. Lots of food and bluegrass bands playing.

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After the Farmers Market, we take a stroll at the Marsh next to the Arcata Bay which are a refuge for a lot of birds and insects.

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This concludes the first part of our trip. Next, the Trinity Alps…