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California Redwoods….Man Those Are Big Trees!

What would a trip to the National Parks be without at least one stop in a grove of giant redwood trees?  This particular grove was called the Pierce Creek Redwoods and is actually part of the California State Park System.  The Drury Scenic Drive through the park was much different than when we rode our bicycle down this segment.  It used to be the coastal route 101 but in our 10 year absence, the state ran the highway around the park leaving this wonderful road for us tourists.

As we parked the truck next to this giant we knew it would be a special day!
This was the “other side” of the same tree that is pictured above.
This signage was a bit unnerving as we stepped into the forest!
Even more unnerving was seeing this pile of cat scat right after we entered the forest!
Which way to explore first?
This way for more amazing trees!
This poor tree was one of the unlucky redwood trees not to survive the many fires that scorch them from time to time.
Can you believe that those huge trees generally come from a pine cone this small?
Check out this root reaching for moisture. Sometimes redwoods regenerate themselves from the big burls at their base. When the tree senses danger it releases a chemical that spurs new growth. A clone you would say.
Wonder how long ago this tree became a bridge?
We could not imagine being the maintainer for this trail. Finding a sawyer with a long enough blade to handle this downed tree would be tough!
I was feeling lucky this day. Look at the crack in the parent tree that is hosting the new growth.
Laurie cannot believe these two giants parted a bit so she could walk through. Check out her pose as she tries to become the Vitruvian Woman!
These two trees fell in love a long time ago.
What an awesome root system this little redwood has. Hanging on for life to its giver of that life.
Ain’t nature grand???!!!
This specific tree was named the “Corkscrew Tree”. We think it looks a bit more like a praying mantis.
The root systems for these giant trees are very shallow but can spread hundreds of feet horizontally.
The sign said “trail closed due to a bridge issue”. No issue for us?
Hope I can fit under that giant?
I am not 16 anymore am I. Still limber enough to do the limbo though.
Where is Dando now?
Not sure this is the spot to be resting?
Can you find the 4 leaf clover? Although we did not find it we seem to be running into all sorts of good luck on our adventure!
Which way do I go now?
These trees are absolutely amazing!
The teacher in me has not disappeared. I will spare you most of the details of the lecture I appear to be giving here but C=Pi*D and A=Pi*r^2
What an awesome hike we had here among the coastal redwoods.

 

2 Replies to “California Redwoods….Man Those Are Big Trees!”

  1. That looks really awesome. A mountain lion picture would have been epic, but from what people tell me they are pretty common.

  2. When considering the magnificence of all things living you have to feel insignificant whilst hiking
    amongst these giants!

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