Hike coordinator: Rheo Wheeler
Narration by Rheo Wheeler
We had a total of 12 for our hike from Floras Lake to Blacklock Point. What a beautiful day to be at the coast, no wind and sunny and cool. Perfect for hiking. The hike begins at Floras Lake, where we usually catch a glimpse of kite boarders or sails of some kind. Alas, on that day there was no wind to power these fun methods of play. The first ½ mile takes you through soft sand, which means after hiking 7ish miles, your return ½ mile is also soft sand. Once on the trail you are above the beach and in the trees for a shady stroll south to the first challenge, the “almost” bridge. Better than wading, but a balance test that everyone passed.
Then, it was on to the first overlook of the beach where Mother Nature has left a sandstone carving on the beach. Some see a ship, some see a castle, but still impressive. Next, on to the overlook above the waterfall for a spectacular view of the sandstone cliffs towering over the beach below.
It was time for lunch with this wonderful view before heading for our destination of Blacklock Point. And more shady trail before breaking out near the Point. Here, you can see the Cape Blanco lighthouse to the south, with the dark sand beach below and all the driftwood that accumulates here. Around the corner and a short walk takes you to Blacklock Point where a young eagle posed out on the rocks for photos.
Then we reversed our trip and headed back. Some opted for a stroll in the soft sand at the midway point on our return, but most enjoyed firmer footing of the trail back. This hike was about 8 miles total.
Pictures below by Rheo Wheeler
