davesenesac
Trail Wise!
Our precious life is short within eternity, don't waste it!
Posts: 1,710 
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Post by davesenesac on May 10, 2017 21:06:18 GMT -8
Looks like my day count in the field for 2017 is up to 35 days:
www.davidsenesac.com/2017_Trip_Chronicles/2017_Trip-Chronicles-0.html
This week twice visited a state park at about 70 highway miles distance from where I live that I've been to many times over the decades. California now has 8 national parks, several world famous with Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park arguably the crown jewels. However there is a small state park with a land area of less than one square mile that is also arguably at the same scenic level as that famous valley. An odd thing about Yosemite Valley is at a mere 6 square miles it seems to have as many world class scenic features as the whole vast rest of the Sierra Nevada range.
In like manner Point Lobos State Reserve, just south of Carmel and the Monterey Peninsula arguably has as many world class coastal features as the rest of the entire California Pacific Coast. Again mere coincidence?
www.pointlobos.org/wonders-point-lobos/breathtaking-beauty
Another odd thing about Point Lobos is it does not seem to be particularly well known in part because it is overwhelmed by nearby powerful commercial tourist areas where it is usually offered as just another local destination for visitors to queue up. The Monterey Peninsula is of course home to some of the worlds most expensive real estate including golf courses. And many rich in this era are not too excited about places they might have to hike on trails for views. How many of you have even heard of Point Lobos?
The following page on my chronicles feature has a few images of subjects I worked this last week at Point Lobos State Reserve:
www.davidsenesac.com/2017_Trip_Chronicles/spring_2017-9.html
David
And a page for an image taken with my 4x5 view camera in 2005:
www.davidsenesac.com/images/print_05-W-8.html |
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balzaccom
Trail Wise!
Waiting for spring...
Posts: 4,551
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Post by balzaccom on May 10, 2017 21:23:25 GMT -8
Lovely photos, as always, David.
Point Lobos is, indeed, a real treasure. I've ridden my bike there many times--one of the truly great bikes rides in the world.
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toejam
Trail Wise!
Hiking to raise awareness
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Post by toejam on May 11, 2017 4:25:28 GMT -8
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Post by Lamebeaver on May 11, 2017 5:55:26 GMT -8
Very cool. Thanks for including the geology links!
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davesenesac
Trail Wise!
Our precious life is short within eternity, don't waste it!
Posts: 1,710
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Post by davesenesac on May 11, 2017 17:12:32 GMT -8
Yeah Lamebeaver, tis a wonderful place for we rock folks. The below geology link has lot of pictures. Arguably one of the best non-technical geology articles for visitors one might find at any park.www.pointlobos.org/sites/default/files/u924/Rocks%20of%20Point%20Lobos%20for%20Website.pdfThe below TripAdviser dot com website reviews say much about how people react when they visit this special place. I just went through a few recent pages out of 3528 reviews listed. Of 108 listed things to do in Carmel, it rates #1 though as noted in my OP that is mostly word of mouth because it tends to be a distraction for customers of regional commercial interests. A few snippets from below link reviews. I cut out sentences about the parking that were common. www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g32172-d102545-Reviews-Point_Lobos_State_Reserve-Carmel_Monterey_County_California.html"Spectacular shoreline hking”
I've lived in Silicon Valley for 30 years. This was my first visit to Point Lobos. I've been to Monterey many times. This is unquestionably the best shoreline hiking I've encountered in CA. This is must see. The hiking trails are excellent and easy to follow. These follow the shoreline around the point. There are many beaches with baby seals. It is incredible. Visited April 2017
“Beautiful spot to spend the morning”
Point Lobos was so beautiful, and the best part were the seal moms and pups (pupping season in April/May)! The best place to view them was from the trail to bird island. Come early in the day to avoid crowds. You could spend hours wandering the many beautiful trails. Visited April 2017
“DO NOT MISS THIS SPECTACULAR PARK”
Our stop at Point Lobos was the highlight of our entire PCH trip. A chance to see tons of seals, otters, and other wildlife up close. Easy hiking, mostly flat terrain - big bang for the buck, as literally around every turn are jaw dropping, postcard-like views. Truly, do not miss this stop. Visited March 2017
“Don't leave the Carmel area without seeing Point Lobos!”
This has to be one of the most beautiful walks in the world on a sunny day! You can crawl out to rocks at the water's edge, see a natural bridge, and watch families of seals. You can park once and walk the entire trail, or you can drive to various areas, then park and walk. Plenty of restrooms. Most trails are very easy. Visited February 2017
“My Favorite Coastal Reserve!”
I consider the Point Lobos State Reserve to be the best one on the lengthy California Coast bar none. The walking trails and the preserved historical venues are so interesting and soothing. Experience a docent explanation of its remarkable history, including how close it was to becoming a housing development, the whalers, abalone divers,etc.. The inlets with crashing blue waves is a sight to behold. There are quiet places, seals, sea otters, and even a hidden beach where many a wedding has taken place. You won't be disappointed! Visited October 2016
“Point Lobos State Reserve Park”
Family or couples or solo, this is a place u will never regret if u r an environmental and hiking enthusiast. This is also an ideal place for u to propose to your girlfriend if u r a romantic person. Visited November 2016
“A jewel on the Pacific”
We have visited Point Lobos many many times over the years. It is one of our favorite places on the planet. Doesn't matter when you go, it will be a transformative experience. Plan to spend at least two hours. The abundance and variety of nature's beauty is spectacular and good for your soul. Visited March 2016
“It lived up to the reviews and then some”
I'm not always the most appreciative of nature, but Point Lobos does not disappoint. The reviews I read prior to going were almost too good to believe and I assumed it was geared more to those really into nature. This place is just amazing. Easy enough to walk a short distance to enjoy, but also plenty of hiking along the water and even on the beach if you'd like. This is 100% a must see, even if you've never thought you would like to... Visited October 2016
"Epic views and worthwhile experience”
We loved Point Lobos and found the views were much better than stopping at lay-bys for views around Big Sur. The coastline is dramatic and beautiful, with added benefit of well organised trails to walk with different levels of time. We were only able to fit 3 trails in from car park 1 as we arrived about 2pm. We saw the sunset and got some amazing photos. Definitely worthwhile... Visited October 2016
“Point Lobos a must stop, go first thing when they open!”
Point Lobos is a must stop every time we are in Carmel - about twice per year. It is one of the most beautiful spots I have ever seen... Great birding and viewing of sea life. Simply stunning. Visited June 2015
“Love Point Lobos State Reserve in Carmel, CA”
Point Lobos State Reserve is just awesomely beautiful. Gorgeous waters, fabulous trees that are wind-swept. Peaceful. White sands. A wonderful place to stop and see - or take a picnic - step into the water and enjoy. I love it. Visited July 2015
“Favorite California state park by a long shot!”
I feel like I'm constantly telling friends to come here! Less well known than other state parks, Point Lobos in Carmel is the epitome of breathtaking California coastline. Arrive early to park inside, or else it's about a mile out to the highway each way through the redwoods. I love heading south on the coastal trails, and heading down to Gibson Beach. The beach feels like it's pulled off of a tropical island and is generally not crowded due to the steep set of stairs used to access it. If you're lucky, you'll be able to see seals on China Beach -- it is such a picturesque sight! Point Lobos is also a favorite of mine for photography buffs: you can get incredible shots of the ocean hitting the rocks and cliffsides. Visited July 2016
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toejam
Trail Wise!
Hiking to raise awareness
Posts: 1,795
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Post by toejam on May 12, 2017 4:34:36 GMT -8
No mention of faeries, little people, or vibrations? Huh. Maybe Lobos is ready to make friends.
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