August 12, 2024 - Day 87

We got up early this morning to a somewhat soaked tent. It rained a bit this morning and the mist from the ocean compounded to a nice layer of water on our rain cover. Still, the morning was wonderful as we enjoyed hot coffee on a beach that we had to ourselves. It’s been such an energy boost compared to the crowded, Smokey, and monotonous Oregon section we just arrived from.

Our walk today was much different. We left the beach and began a 1,600 foot ascent up to some cliff edges looking out to the ocean below. The fog was so thick this morning that we had no views for the first hour until the rain stopped, the clouds began to clear, and the sun peaked its way out from behind the clouds.

We stumbled upon a WWII bunker and debated exploring the depths of the structure but given it was just Mackenzie and I at that moment, I was worried we would have no way of getting back out of the bunkers. The area also contained these old rustic bunk houses with ferns growing atop their roofs. It’s a true rainforest and were all so appreciative to be out here dodging the smoke and fires.

We kept walking down towards one of the best beaches I’ve visited in my life and we set up for lunch and a couple naps for the afternoon. We then strolled into Cannon Beach for some dinner. The town itself is wonderful with cedar shake stores and a true northern beach vibe. We’re set up at a campsite just outside of town.

Happy campers…