La Push, WA (Part 2) – Rialto & Ruby Beach, Hoh Rain Forest & the Tree of Life

RIALTO BEACH – Our main goal was to take pictures of the “Hole in the Wall.” We arrived at the beach during low tide to explore the tide pools. Getting to the rock formation housing the “Hole in the Wall” was slow going as the beach was covered with stones. The large rocks before the formation were slippery and jagged, with the tide pools nestled among the crevices. The pools were filled with various sizes of sea urchins, barnacles, mussels, and the occasional starfish. Our leisurely walk back was spent collecting unique rocks and listening to the sound the pebbles made as the water receded into the ocean.

It was chilly that morning, and I always wondered if a catch had been made for this die-hard fisherman.

HOH RAIN FOREST– The rainforest is a heavily visited area. This forest gets around 140 inches of rain yearly —perfect conditions for moss to grow and cover trees. One can take several hikes, but the Hall of Mosses Trail is the most popular. One can meander through old-growth trees covered with lush moss and overgrown ferns. We ventured on the Mineral Creek Fall Trail, a 2.7-mile hike through more of the moss-covered trees that led to the falls.

RUBY BEACH—When researching this beach, we learned the name was given because of the reddish sand. However, when we arrived, the beach had no red sand and was made of more rocks than sand. We enjoyed a stroll on the beach and canvassing the abundant driftwood.

TREE OF LIFE—This is a mystery no one can explain. Due to erosion, the root system cannot thrive in the soil, but it does.  The roots meet in the middle, creating a cave. The tree has survived through heavy winds, whereas healthy trees with root systems do not. This is unnatural, and many have dubbed the tree with magical powers.  Magical is unverifiable but definitely worth a visit.  Afterward, we quickly rode to Kalaloch Lodge and had a delightful breakfast overlooking the beach.   

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