Lake Quinault and Rainforest- It Rained

There aren't many temperate rainforests in the world, but there are two on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State- west of Seattle. We spent the weekend at the Lake Quinault Lodge which is nestled within the Olympic Rainforest.

As you might expect, it rained and rained hard. But, we got out and checked out a nice chunk of the forest. Here are some pics from the trip:

This is the lodge, built in the 20's. We couldn't stay in the lodge because we have a mutt, but they do allow dogs in the "boathouse" which is really nice.

Just thought thse were kinda eerie. One has a little ladder built on it for some reason.

There are these broadleaf maple things that were everywhere. Spiney things, or as Sachiko would say "pokeys".

A little salmonberry- which was new to me. It was wet and I was happy to see this little drop hanging on. Of course, I unintentionally shook the branch seconds later.

Rainforest trail

The restaurant at the lodge had hummingbird feeders and I shot some pics as we ate breakfast...

As it rained, we drank wine on the porch and tormented Amos...

This whole natural wonderland is surrounded by the lumber industry, including vast areas of clear-cut forest. It's depressing, but I've come to see the trees as a crop- and I like wood- my house is made of wood.

This smokestack was visible in the distance so we drove towards it and got to the gate of the paper mill- check out the sign. How ironic under a smokestack.

On the way back, we passed through Aberdeen, boyhood home of Kurt Kobain. As everyone says... it's easy to see why he was so pissed-off.