California Redwoods

Leaving Mendon, we continued our westward journey by heading over the border into California to the Redwood Forest.  Our kids were delighted to experience these magnificent trees for the first time!  Annika in particular was thrilled to visit California.  She kept telling us how being in California made it the best day ever.

We hiked the Simpson-Reed Discovery Trail in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.  We had reservations to camp there earlier in the summer but had to cancel the trip, so it was exciting to see the place in person at last.

The trees really are incredible.  Interesting fact: since water is readily available, their root systems are only six feet deep but spread out extremely wide.  Like the firs that fell in our neighborhood, this makes them susceptible to strong winds.

Talia and Eli, swallowed by a tree stump.

Look at Talia to put this root ball into proportion.

Annika's very favorite discovery was this banana slug.  She was delighted when it slimed her hand.

This arched tree branch was fantastic.  I can't explain how, but it was rooted on both sides with branches growing like trees.

Our youngsters also had some epic battles with their imaginary bows and arrows.

Only one complaint about our visit to the Redwoods: it was far too short!  In the end Annika only got a few perfect Californian hours.

Not to worry: we'll be back.