The day after my wedding in the Redwoods, I also convinced everyone to go hiking again…in the rain. I didn’t have a lot of gear for this adventure since I had only brought a carry-on with me to California. I did have waterproof rain boots though which is actually what I wore with my dress when I got married!

I also brought some cheap ponchos for everyone in case it rained during the ceremony itself. It fortunately didn’t but we did use them the next day for this rainy, windy coastal hike. I try to avoid more disposable items like this but it was the best option for us at the time.

Continuing with the wedding theme, this trail led us to Wedding Rock Trail in Patrick’s Point State Park with “Wedding Rock” towering over the ocean. The rain and fog combined with fierce, crashing waves made for a truly spectacular hike.

The last photo is a group selfie with my officiant and maid of honor who are both close friends. It captures the excitement we all had for this amazing experience despite being cold and soaked. I was so grateful to bring these amazing women on this adventure with me.

You could camp anywhere in America but Lilly Pad Obed is special. Central to the Obed Wild & Scenic River, the primitive campground is a favorite for climbers who consider the sandstone boulders and cliffs the ultimate playground. The primitive campsite is a generous $5 a night, complete with a brewery on-site. Lilly Pad Obed is also within the park’s International Dark Sky designation that allows a broad scope of stars after the sun has set. 

I had previously camped during the solar eclipse but was happy to be back without the crowds that it drew. The laid back campsite is peaceful and home to Big, the large gentle dog who roams the grounds looking for belly rubs and a nice shady spot to hang out in.

During the summer, the woods can feel almost tropical with the Southern fauna that permeates the trees and footpaths. It never feels like we’ve been able to see enough or fully absorb the magical qualities of the area. At the same time, the promise of future exploring never gets old.