In the meantime, the loved one (who is also retiring ) and I could only find time for a quick, but visually appealing, hike out and back to Warrior Point on what was a very crisp Fall day.
We were surprised to find the parking lot pretty full when we got there fairly early and then - after a fusillade of shots - realized that it was duck hunting season. They're supposed to be shooting up but it seemed extra good that we were wearing bright colors. It also seemed equally good to stick to the beach for a bit as we headed toward the Warrior Point lighthouse (arrow).
Where we were it was cold but calm, and the most bluebird of days,
which allowed for some expansive views of St. Helens.
The loved one's interest in being photographed is always a bit chancy and today was not one of those days, as I took this unique arm signal as a "NO!" Sigh.
This refusal to be immortalized by photons forced me to turn to nature for photographic inspiration, which was not in short supply along the beach, as it offered sundials,
abstracts,
and navigational reflections.
The night's cold had also created an amazing array of iced imagery.
The river seemed lower than usual, so we were able to make it a long way up the beach before some muddy, slippery spots suggested we go inland to connect with the road, where I was able to catch a receding shot of the loved one (who, fortunately, didn't hear the shutter click).
There were several more St. Helens photo ops from viewpoints along the road,
and then we reached the lighthouse.
A little more forest and beach walking,
brought us to the N tip of the island, with its view of the town of St. Helens.
On the way back, both St Helens and Adams came into view,
and then we reached the end.
An exceptionally pleasant 7 mi RT stroll along the beach and through the woods. We're taking it as an omen for more great hikes to come.
Makes for an exciting day!