Gerstle Point Campground Hike 20 April 2008

All photos and text copyright Stephen J. Martin

Under the direction of Coastwalk, we hiked a spectacular California coastal trail.

Salt Point, Sonoma Coast, Gerstle Point Campground, Fisk Mill and Cemetery and Stump Beach, CA

As an advisory, should you choose to walk this trail; I would advise you to go with friends,
if possible ~ someone experienced. Dress in layers as the winds and weather are subject to
change. Bring water to drink and food to sustain your energy. When at ocean level you need
to remember that the California coast has undercurrents called rip-tides that are extremely
dangerous, are not always visible to the eye, and can pull you out to sea if you walk into the
waves. Wear sunblock. And the advisories and notes will keep being added-to as I think of them.

Among the flowers and grasses of the trail, we found not only coastal sage but Violet Lupin, Yellow Lupin, Nosegay.

Below is a shot of Stump Beach, easily accessed from the highway a few miles north of Jenner.

Below is an interesting shot of how the waves hit the rocks with enough force to carve them, gradually, over the centuries.
I love the thunder!!

Captured a shot of Shelley capturing a shot of the southern view from beneath the Coastal Redwoods and ancient Oak.

The views are simply spectacular and the ocean breezes are so refreshing.

Fisk family cemetery marker.

Fisk Mill Cove marker.

Watch the colors of the rocks and the deep blue sea!!!

Below is a shot of Dave sitting at one of the eye-bolts from the old Fisk Mill.

They used to cut the redwoods and then slide the timbers down to the ships below.

You can find information on it under the Gerstle Cove heading on Fort Ross Interpretive's website.

Now, the photo below just begs the question: What came first? The stick-in or the craig?

Below is a shot that demonstrates how close the trail is to the cliffs at some points,
but we found it generally safe as long as you keep your eye on your feet as well as your viewfinder.
And be sure to keep an eye on kids!!!

Below is a shot rich with the colors of the sea!!!

The California coastline is a different view at every bend in the trail.

The Coastal Redwoods and other conifers stretch to the sky with such majesty.
And as you can plainly see, the trail is rather easy to find and follow.

Look at how the waves crash!!! I love being on the cliffs and seeing these sights!!!

I'd like to thank my new friends at Coastwalk not only for a wonderful hike but for all of the
conservation they have initiated. Visit their site and get involved with a fabulous group of people.

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My hobbies include writing poetry about the faeries, elves, gnomes, mermaids and magic of the Sebastopol, Bodega Bay, Sonoma County area.

I wrote Nude Tea which is available at online bookstores like Barnes and Nobles.

My 44 Summer Stories are available at WildChildPublishing.com