Vander Naald Family Vacation, Part II: Sol Duc Hot Springs & the Hoh National Rain Forest

Once we left Sequim, we headed to Kalaloch, WA to round out the trip in a quaint cabin at the Kalaloch Lodge.  On the way, we stopped off at the Sol Duc Hot Springs to enjoy a good soak (or as Kevin preferred, another hike instead) and then the following day we went to check out the Hoh National Rain Forest in Olympic National Park.

Tracey, Brian & Anne, somewhere in the Olympic National Forest, en route to the hot springs.

Anne found out the hard way that sterling silver jewelry really does tarnish in the hot springs water.  Yes, even an engagement ring isn't immune to the sulphur :(  Thankfully, it can be fixed and after a good cry, she realized that no matter what the memory still holds of Brian's proposal :)  

We had the pleasure of soaking with what appeared to be a Russian family reunion in process.  This only added to the touristy-hot-springs scene.  Even though it was crowded with tourists, the water was still relaxing!

And another gorgeous view

Are there even words for this peaceful view?

Later in this portion of the trip, we went to check out the Hoh National Rain Forest, which was spectacular.  Prior to our guided walk through the rain forest, Anne & Brian wandered off on yet another pretty trail.

Hoh National Rain Forest sights:

This is Bob, our 71-year old guide.  He's been a National Park Ranger for many years in several different parks, and didn't miss a beat. He was a wealth of information and obviously had a passion for what he does and a strong connection with nature.

One of the fun facts we learned is what a "nurse log" is, which is basically a fallen tree that ends up being the foundation for other growth to occur.  

This is what happens over time when full-on trees grow out of what was once just a fresh nurse log.  The trees grow interconnected, sharing the "nurse log" as their bases.  

love the vibrant green, everywhere

It's not called a rain forest for nothin'!

We really did learn a lot from Bob on our guided walk, and while I can't remember all the details, I can remember how I felt about it, and it was energizing for me to watch him share his gift of teaching and love of nature.

Up next...a really big cedar tree and lots o' starfish!