welshkate

This weekend saw quite an impressive weather pattern in coastal Oregon. Sun, hail, snow, wind, 35 ft swell, lightning all figured into it. Few times have I observed snow on the beach in Oregon, but as my friend Joe and I headed to the Lake Creek put in, along the coast road, we were treated to just such a rare occurrence. This, combined with pendulous thunder clouds and the peeling15 ft (15 sec period) swell rolling in, the senses were certainly awakened. Below we see Haceta Head and snowy dunes in Florence

With no sign of the  Corvallis crew at the take out we assumed (later confirmed) they couldn’t make it because of downed trees and snow. The Eugene crew were also out because of a landslide blocking the road. With this in mind, Joe and I opted for the Grassy Lawn park and play option. It was, shall we say, a brief excursion into the chilly waters. The photos below show Joe clearing woody debris off the road, launching at the boat ramp and playing.

However, surfing this feature was not our only prerogative during this trip. Prior to setting out I’d been charged with partaking in a very important, honorable mission. I’d been entrusted with recovering a pair of shuttle shoes belonging to Ryan. It was a mission which i’m pleased to say, we accomplished. Here’s a picture of the article in question.

Joe and I chilled (literally) at Grassy Lawn until it started snowing and the fog started to roll down from up-stream. Another great, allbeit short day on the river.