We're in Oregon!

Our first day in the Beaver State had us exploring port towns, learning about sea trash, meandering through Myrtle Trees and camping along the Rogue River. A fabulous Day 1.


Armed with this amazing driving guide, we were informed of what not to miss Mile-by-Mile.
A fabulous discovery we found, through the guide, was the Myrtle Tree Trail.


The Myrtle Tree Trail explores one of the few old-growth groves of these unique and rare trees that only grow in southwest Oregon, northwest California and Israel. 

Emerald tree branches stretch and twist into a canopy dripping with the pungent smell of fresh bay leaves – reminiscent of Eucalyptus. This Oregon forest full of old-growth myrtle trees is a truly unique experience.
This tree is one of the world’s largest known myrtle trees: it is approximately 88 feet tall, 42 feet in circumference, and its canopy is nearly 70 feet wide (pre-2018 when a storm severed it).
On the way to the trees, Steve spotted this idyllic campsite at Lobster Creek on the Rogue River. It will be remembered as one of our favorites.
What a perfect morning cup of coffee.
Our first stop, on Day 2 in Oregon, was at Port Orford, the oldest town on the Oregon Coast and the most westerly in the 48 states.
Established in 1851, it's home to the only open-water port on the Oregon Coast and one of six 'dolly' ports in the world where recreational and commercial fishing boats are hoisted into and out of the water daily. It was pretty awesome to watch.



While in town, we learned about Coast Guard heroics at the Lifeboat Station Museum at Port Orford Heads State Park.




The Umpqua River Lighthouse at Winchester Bay towers over the beach where the Umpqua River empties into the Pacific Ocean. The 65-foot lighthouse was constructed in 1890 after the first Umpqua River Lighthouse, built in 1857, next to the river mouth, collapsed in a storm. 
The Umpqua River Lighthouse features a two-ton First Order Fresnel lens constructed from 616 glass prisms handcrafted in France.
"Just when you think you know the Oregon Coast, you think again. Take the South Coast, for example. Less trafficked than the north, the rugged southern region has a charm all its own — friendly little towns, miles of remote beaches and activities to suit all comers. In the seaside town of Bandon (pop. 3,055), enjoy the charming Old Town district, outdoor recreation and delicious local food and drink."
We stopped here for coffee and treats at the Farmers' Market.

And, oh man, the unique art.

A highlight in this little town was a visit to Washed Ashore. This nationally recognized community art project raises awarness of marine debris.
The entire place is an art gallery whose works are masterpieces, though constructed out of trash found on the beach or at sea. Wild, right?






Flip Flop Fish.


If we would have had more time, we would have helped in the building of a new massive sculpture, in process, in the open workshop. Next time.

Steve and I both left with a feeling of sadness and vowed never to visit a beach without a garbage bag with which to gather 'art supplies'. Such a very cool space.
We continue north on 101. What treasures we have left to discover!

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1 comments:

Four Points Bulletin said...

Love those bridges. Oregon is a wonderful state. Enjoy it all! Washed Ashore is an interesting concept. There is so much garbage and and so many valubales "lost" at sea. Also, if you have time, don't forget about John's Beachcombing Museum in Forks (for the same reason). https://fourpointsbulletin.com/2021/07/03/johns-beachcombing-museum-forks/

September 24, 2022 at 5:38 AM

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