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Oswald West State Park
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Oswald West State Park in Oregon is such an awesome place! I believe it’s also called Smuggler’s Cove due to the fact that pirates used to hide in this area.
There’s a short hike from the highway to the beach. I’ve seen surfers here each time I’ve visited.
To the left is a photo of what you see as soon as you reach the water. Isn’t it beautiful?
Above is my attempt to capture the scene with chalk pastels.
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During the hike to the beach, there is lots to see. It’s a one mile round trip hike through old growth forest. Take your time and enjoy your surroundings. This rumbling creek and a wooden hanging bridge give an explorer lots of reasons to stop and enjoy.
A word to the wise: Pay attention to the path you are taking so you are knowledgeable about your return. I took the wrong fork in the path and ended up in a totally different parking lot. It added about another 45 minutes to my hike.
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The cove is part cobblestone and part sand. There’s also an immense shallow area which makes it great for wave skimming. Further out you can often see surfers.
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One of the main reasons for visiting this area was for me to find interesting rocks. I never found any. Not even one. The scenery made up for the lack of gravel, I suppose.
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