Chimney Rock at Point Reyes National Seashore

Chimney Rock is a popular destination in Point Reyes National Seashore. It's best to go see it in the spring, when it is covered in wildflowers; however, this easy in-and-out hike (2 miles roundtrip) is fun year round. I went on a summer day that was split between fog and sunlight. There was a dense fog rolling in, hitting closer to the historic lighthouse, while the sun was still breaking through and lighting up the white sandstone cliffs of Drakes Beach. The light made for really dramatic photos of an already dramatic landscape! To top it all off, I was treated to the sight of a few elephant seals even though it was not the season for them. I definitely want to come back to this wonderful spot!

The image below is a better shot than what I was able to get from the same spot with the camera lens that I brought. I am kicking myself that I didn't bring a lens that could handle a wider angle. I am already planning another trip back here, hopefully in the next year or so, so that I can get my own shots.

Image from Wikimedia Commons; image is in the public domain

In the spring, when the crowds are at their peak, for both the wildflowers and the whale watching, there is a mandatory shuttle. On the summer afternoon that my family and I went to Chimney Rock, we had no problem finding a spot to park even though there were plenty of people at the park.