Another day of blue skies and sunshine greeted me as I rolled out of bed. I decided I’d stay another night in the campground and hike Forillon National Park until dusk. It wasn’t long until my hiking boots were laced up and I took to the first trail of the day.
A walk through the forest had me climbing uphill along a rocky cliff, glimpses of the ocean revealing themselves through the autumn leaves that waved in the cool breeze. I had opted for one of the longer trails but one with plenty of lookouts. I wasn’t disappointed as the trail led to a massive wooden tower that I climbed to the top. Oh, what a view! With clear skies and sunshine all around, the landscape revealed itself in stunning splendor.
Despite my poor french, many people along the trail sparked up conversations with me. It was wonderful chatting with the various hikers, taking turns posing for pictures as we shared stories with one another.
With the first hike of the day being a decent workout at 9 km, I was debating if I wanted to do another longer hike before the sunset. A pretty epic view was waiting for me though and I simply couldn’t resist as I gave into the second lengthy trail of the day.
I managed to make it down the path beside sparkling ocean waters to a lighthouse at the end where I was able to take a seat in one of the famous red chairs and take in the views. The second lengthy hike had been worth it. I took a different trail back to the parking lot, one that weaved itself through the trees and down along the cliffs.
There wasn’t much time left in the day before the sun went down and I wanted to squeeze in one final hike. As I was driving to the destination I noticed a bunch of cars parked on the side of the road as a group of people with cameras out were trying to take a picture of something. I knew it had to be some kind of animal so I parked and pulled out my camera as well. Out of nowhere a massive moose walked out of the brush and onto the road. It towered over everyone there, a creature you have to see in person to truly appreciate its enormity. I snapped what pictures I could before it disappeared into the bush once more.
With the moose sighting taking the rest of the daylight I would’ve needed for the hike, I decided to call it a day. With over 18 km accomplished it had been quite an adventurous journey. I made it to a local store and picked up some food and marshmallows that I brought back to camp with me to roast over the fire. I’d tied Winnie up, away from the fire to avoid potential injury. She was sounding lonely though so I picked her up and and brought her by the campfire where she dozed off in my lap. It’s moments like these I know I’ll cherish when I think back on them, so I simply just enjoyed the moment as the glowing embers slowly faded.
Amazing trip.