Geo 365: Feb. 9, Day 40: Dune Crest

Standing on the dune crest of the first dune, south of where the trail debouches into open sand, at Eel creek. The view is to the east, over the coast range, and there's some nice festoon cross bedding in the knobs in the mid-ground. This area is part of the John Dellenback Dunes Trail. I like getting out on the sand, but the idea of slogging through 2.7 miles of it to what is undoubtedly a gorgeous, secluded beach, then the same back, has just never appealed to me. On the other hand, I've stayed at Eel Creek Campground a few times- it's much closer to the dunes than the day use area, and like many coast campgrounds, the dense shrubbery gives each site a sense of seclusion and isolation. Some sites back right onto the dunes. I would have no hesitation in recommending this spot for an overnighter, if you're a camping type.

Photo unmodified. March 8, 2012. FlashEarth Location- cross hairs on day-use parking area.