🌾🍂 California Autumn: The Reeds on the Beach 🌾🍂
Looking to embrace the autumn vibes in California? Go hiking and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the reed fields! Picture an entire valley covered in fields of swaying reeds, resembling waves of feathers. It's a truly magical and romantic experience. Here's everything you need to know about finding and enjoying the vast expanse of reeds on the beach:
📍 Location: Pacifica Quarry Running Trail, 4600 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacifica, CA.
🅿️ Parking: There is a small parking lot at the trail entrance, but it tends to fill up quickly on weekends. Alternatively, you can park across the street at the plaza.
Finding the Reed Fields
- Upon arriving at the trail entrance, you'll see a large iron gate. Behind the gate, three paths await you: a dirt road to the left, another dirt road straight ahead, and a bike lane to the right.
- Take the wide dirt road straight ahead, and within a 5-minute walk, you'll find yourself surrounded by a sea of reeds (see pic 1). These tall and dense reeds are perfect for capturing stunning portraits. The path here is spacious and flat, making it easy to walk even without athletic shoes.
- On the right-hand side, there is a paved road suitable for biking or jogging. This path also features a charmingly arranged roadside garden.
Exploring the Trail
- As you continue along the trail for approximately 15 minutes, you'll reach a fork in the road. Taking the right turn will lead you to a steep uphill path, where reeds beautifully cover the slopes. Be sure to wear proper athletic shoes for this section.
- Continuing straight ahead will take you to a small hill leading to the beach. The reeds along this part of the trail are less dense, so photography opportunities may be limited.
Trail Summary and Tips
- The entire trail is approximately 0.7 miles long and can be completed in about 30 minutes.
- Along the way, you may encounter several junctions. If you have the time, feel free to explore all of them. However, I recommend starting by taking the dirt road straight ahead to enjoy the stunning reed fields. After leaving the fields, venture onto the steep uphill path for a different perspective and breathtaking views.
- Currently, the reeds are not in full bloom yet. They appear as a purplish-brown color with a fuzzy texture. When in full bloom, they turn a pale white and become even more fluffy.
Tips for the Visit
- Plan your visit during the afternoon when the weather is generally warmer and more pleasant. Keep in mind that the trail is mostly surrounded by shrubs and reeds, offering little shade. Additionally, the beach is windy, so it's important to protect yourself from the wind and sun.
- If you're interested in capturing stunning portraits, consider arriving about an hour before sunset. The backlighting combined with the golden hues of the sunset creates a dreamy and radiant atmosphere within the reed fields.
📍 Don't rely on the map, as the trail remains open all day.
Remember to follow any safety guidelines and enjoy your peaceful and picturesque adventure at the reeds on the beach! 🌾🍁
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