Glines Canyon overlook is the site of the upper Elwha dam removal, the larger of the two dams. and the highest dam removed in the US. The overlook is nicely designed with interpretive signs on the bridge and a gorgeous view of the restored river habitat. Restoration was painstakingly done over many years with plants regrown in nurseries and planted by volunteers.
Unfortunately, the road to this overlook was washed out 5 yrs ago in a flood and is now only accessible by a 7 mi round trip hike. We walk past dense forest along the clear, wild Elwha River. In some areas, we see salmon flopping as they swim up river.
We stop for lunch along the banks and notice schools of salmon spawning in a gravel bottomed section, their fins popping above the surface and large splashes as males chase each other to claim territory.
We end the day by Lake Crescent, the largest most pristine lake In Washington. I play around with reflections.
Tomorrow we leave this area and head to the western coast and the Hoh River and rainforest. It appears we will be experiencing rainforest weather as well for the next few days. Tomorrow marks a full week spent in Cali-alto’s 100 sq ft of space.
We try for a small one-man and well -rated wood fired pizza place but alas he has decided not to open today.