Winchester Bay, Oregon

Before we left for Winchester Bay, we went to the beach one last time this morning. Michael had the bright idea to climb the gigantic sand dune to take some video and stills from the top. As is typical with coastal areas, there was, however, a veil of mist that enveloped us this morning so that we could not even see Haystack Rock. 

But even as we approached the gigantic sand dune, the sun was penetrating and scattering the mist. 
I took a deep breath, and proceeded to bravely ascend that gigantic dune. Let me just say that this was better than any workout at the gym, better than any stair-step machine. I had brought my walking poles along and quite frankly, without the aid of those extra "legs" I doubt that I would have been able to make it to the top. I huffed and I puffed my way, plodding three or four steps, sliding back two, in the deep soft sand that spilled over my sneakers, stopping to catch my breath before continuing. There was a mother with her three young sons already up there and they were taking turns sledding down on a boogie board, their excited dog chasing after them. I persevered and crested the 230 foot high dune(with a little final encouragement and help towards the end, from my uber-buff Hub who had already reached the top) . 

Made it!

The mist stubbornly hung on but we were now able to make out the cars below and the Dories preparing to launch out into the waves.

a selfie at the top of the gigantic sand dune

Around 11AM, we were on the road, heading south along coastal route 101. Winchester Bay was only about 120 miles away, but it took about three hours along this very scenic but also winding road that hugs the coastline and passes through several towns. 

Though we have traveled this route a few times, it was a first in Alpine. The scenery remains spectacular with breathtaking ocean views. The road took us in and out of the Siuslaw National Forest and then hugged the edge of the cliffs as we twisted and wound our way along. 

As we left, the mist still hung over waterways

part of the route took us through the Siuslaw National Forest

an eerie scene with the lingering morning mist over the water

back in the Siuslaw National Forest

driving along the very edge of the west coast

boat returning to marina in Depoe Bay

more forested road as we veer slightly inland again

sheer drops below.... on the passenger side of course!

miles of golden sand

folks enjoying the beach as we drive on by

that lingering mist in some spots

sand, boulders and ocean

hugging the coastline

Devils' Punch Bowl area

more sheer drops

magnificent cliffs

that's rather faaaar down

breathtaking scenery

and some more

Heceta Head lighthouse

approaching Oregon's famous coastal dunes 

Eventually we arrived at Winchester Bay RV Resort and fell in with the other Alpines that had already arrived and set up. We were eager to meet our fellow Northwest region Alpine buddies. The next several days will be busy with various planned activities. I will post again as time allows.

Winchester Bay is the dot below Reedsport, marked as number 5