Sunset at Ragged Point

Rolling green hills dazzled our view on the east side, larger mountains behind them, with a mist of fog at the summit. The last rays of sunlight cast slanted beams and long shadows onto the landscape. 

To the west we had spattered views of the coast. I drove around a curve in the road when I spotted an area just large enough to pull over. Amidst the trees and scrub, I discovered a slit in the growth. I sent Jenna to investigate. Two minutes later she returned with a thumbs-up. It was doable. 

We entered the growth of trees and hiked on what could only be considered half a trail. In many places it was wide enough only for one foot with growth from either side covering the path. 

But the smells were incredible! A sweet flowery fragrance prevailed, but also the pungent scent of bark and pine needles. The breeze that blew off from the ocean and up and over the cliffs added to the bouquet. 

The trail felt as if it was solely ours, as if it were once used as a secret hideout years ago, but then abandoned and now rediscovered by us. 

We found an old fire pit, built of stones beneath a canopy of trees. It reminded me of a wooden cave⸺a perfect place to roll out sleeping bags, build a fire and listen to the crashing waves. 

We continued on our newly-found trail, which now opened up into scrubland atop a seaside bluff. Purple and yellow flowers grew on bushes that came to my chest. I walked with haste, knowing exactly what was coming. 

Then we arrived. 

Nature's beauty unfolded before us. We stood atop a blustery cliff and below us the Pacific Ocean stretched eternally toward the horizon. 

Waves systematically crashed into the rocks below. Distant sea-stacks and cliffs appeared as silhouettes. The sun now sat perfectly on the horizon as if she were waiting for us before dipping down. 

Rugged mountains stood in the north, their steep slopes impressive, even at this distance. Every hillside was a different shade of blue. 

All around was beauty and all I wanted to do was gather it up and put it in a bottle. Gales of wind came up from off the ocean, bringing an uncomfortable chill. Within minutes the sun was gone and that uncomfortable chill became more poignant. 

We enjoyed a few more minutes, breathing in the fresh air and taking in a sight that was seldom seen. We returned the way we came, but left our hearts at the bluff-top. ♠ 

 

Jenelle's picture with her phone.