A Journey Through Storms and Elk

January 2024 will forever be etched in our memories as the time when my wife and I, after 40 years of marriage, took on the wild and untamed beauty of Cannon Beach, Oregon. This trip wasn’t just another vacation for us; it was a testament to our enduring love and adventurous spirits. The aftermath of winter storms had left the beach access roads littered with debris and the beaches almost inaccessible due to runoff. Yet, this only added to the allure of our journey, making it an adventure like no other.

The Drive to Cannon Beach

The drive to Cannon Beach was nothing short of spectacular. As we made our way along Highway 101, the remnants of the storms were evident everywhere. Fallen branches and leaves cluttered the sides of the road, and occasional landslides reminded us of nature's unpredictable power. Despite these obstacles, the beauty of the Oregon coast was undeniable. The rain-washed landscape glistened under the rare glimpses of sunlight that pierced through the clouds, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow.

As we approached Cannon Beach, we encountered an unexpected and delightful sight: a herd of elk browsing the hedges and yards of local houses. These majestic creatures moved gracefully, seemingly unbothered by the storm’s aftermath or the human activity around them. We pulled over to watch them, captivated by their serene presence. It felt like a blessing, a sign that our journey was off to a good start.

Settling In

We finally arrived at our quaint Inn, a cozy place with a rustic charm that perfectly matched the rugged coastal surroundings. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of saltwater and pine, and the sound of the crashing waves was a constant, soothing background melody.

The Inn was a perfect retreat, complete with a fireplace that beckoned us to light a fire and settle in with a cup of hot cocoa. We spent our first evening enjoying the warmth of the fire, reminiscing about our past adventures and dreaming about the ones yet to come. The storm outside added to the coziness, making us feel even more snug and content.

The First Morning

The next morning, we woke up to a landscape transformed by the storm’s fury. The beach access roads were littered with debris – fallen trees, branches, and rocks that had been washed down from the cliffs above. The sight was both daunting and exhilarating. We knew that exploring Cannon Beach would be more challenging than usual, but that only fueled our determination.

We donned our waterproof jackets and sturdy hiking boots, ready to tackle whatever obstacles lay ahead. As we made our way to the beach, we had to navigate through the debris-strewn roads. It was slow going, but each step brought us closer to the beach and deeper into our adventure.

Reaching the Beach

When we finally reached the beach, we were greeted by a sight that took our breath away. The usually pristine sands were covered in a tapestry of seaweed, driftwood, and other remnants of the storm. The waves were still churning, powerful and relentless, crashing against the shore with a ferocity that spoke of nature’s raw power.

Despite the chaos, or perhaps because of it, the beach was incredibly beautiful. The dramatic sky, with dark clouds interspersed with rays of sunlight, created a stunning backdrop for the rugged coastline. Haystack Rock stood tall and proud, a steadfast sentinel amidst the tumultuous seas.

We spent the day exploring the beach, carefully picking our way through the debris. Each piece of driftwood and seaweed told a story of the storm’s passage, and we felt a deep connection to the natural world around us. We collected a few interesting pieces of driftwood, intending to turn them into souvenirs of our adventure.

Encountering Wildlife

One of the highlights of our beach exploration was encountering the local wildlife. Seagulls and other seabirds braved the stormy conditions, their calls adding to the symphony of the waves. We were also fortunate enough to spot a group of harbor seals lounging on the rocks, seemingly unperturbed by the rough seas.

As we walked further along the beach, we came across a tide pool teeming with life. Starfish, sea anemones, and tiny crabs went about their business, oblivious to the chaos above. It was a reminder of the resilience of nature and the intricate balance of life.

A Surprise Encounter

On our way back to the inn, we had another surprise encounter with the elk herd we had seen earlier. This time, they were closer to the beach, grazing peacefully in a meadow. We watched them for a while, marveling at their grace and beauty. It felt like a rare and precious gift, a moment of tranquility amidst the wildness of our surroundings.

Reflecting on the Journey

That evening, back at the Inn, we reflected on our day. The challenges we had faced only made the experience more meaningful. The storm had reshaped the landscape, but it had also revealed the raw, untamed beauty of Cannon Beach. We felt a deep sense of accomplishment and gratitude for having been able to witness it.

As we sat by the fire, my wife and I talked about our 45 years together. This trip was a celebration of our journey, a journey filled with love, adventure, and countless memories. The storms we had weathered in life had only made our bond stronger, much like the storm had reshaped and strengthened the beauty of Cannon Beach.

The Following Days

The following days were a mix of exploration and relaxation. We hiked through Ecola State Park, where the storm’s impact was even more evident. Fallen trees and landslides had altered the trails, making some parts difficult to navigate. But the views were breathtaking, and the sense of adventure was palpable.

We also visited the local shops and galleries in Cannon Beach, supporting the community that had been affected by the storms. The people were warm and welcoming, sharing stories of their own experiences with the winter storms. It was heartening to see the resilience and strength of the community.

A Final Adventure

On our last day, we decided to take one final adventure. We drove to Hug Point, a spot known for its picturesque beach and unique rock formations. The road was challenging, with debris and mud making it a treacherous drive. But the effort was worth it. Hug Point was stunning, with waterfalls cascading down the cliffs and the waves crashing against the rocks.

We spent hours exploring the area, taking in the beauty and serenity of our surroundings. It was the perfect way to end our trip, a final reminder of the wild, untamed beauty of the Oregon coast.

Continuing Our Journey

As we packed up and prepared to leave, we felt a mix of emotions. Our time in Cannon Beach had been transformative, a journey that had tested our resilience and deepened our connection to each other and to nature. We left with a sense of accomplishment and a collection of memories that would last a lifetime.

The drive to  Fork, Washingtonwas filled with quiet reflection. The storm had left its mark on the landscape, but it had also revealed the beauty and strength of the natural world. It was a powerful reminder of the resilience of life, a theme that resonated deeply with our own journey.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Cannon Beach in the aftermath of the winter storms was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It was a journey that challenged us, inspired us, and brought us closer together. As we look back on our 40 years of marriage, this trip will stand out as a testament to our love and our adventurous spirits.

In the end, it wasn’t just about the destination, but the journey itself. The storms, the debris, the wildlife – all of it was part of a greater story, a story of resilience, beauty, and enduring  Fork, Washington. And as we move forward, we carry with us the lessons and memories of Cannon Beach, a place where we found not only the wildness of nature but also the strength of our own spirits.