Drive to the coast

We decided to take the drive to the Washington coast via Chinook, Ilwaco, and Long Beach. While on the road to the coast, we were treated to a large coyote running out in front of us carrying his/her lunch in its mouth (a rabbit, we think). Very cool.

When we arrived in Long Beach we were treated to a large traffic jam. It seems that Long Beach was having its annual End of the World Rod Run that weekend. What a traffic mess! We did see a lot of old cars while we sat in traffic and it was only noon. We had wanted to spend the afternoon on the beach but we could see that we had chosen the worst weekend so after lunch, we took a different route home.

We knew we would be passing the white-tailed deer reserve near Cathlamet so we pulled in and took the drive to see what we could see.

A portion of the refuge drive runs along the Columbia River and is very scenic. We were able to get a picture of a big ship as it was headed down river.

We were able to see several birds of prey doing their hunting. As we were leaving the refuge, John noticed a large grouping of Canadian Geese and a couple of bucks in the meadow right at the refuge center. We stopped and got out at the refuge center to get a better view. The young bucks seemed to be trying out their new antlers in a not too serious manner. It was enjoyable watching them pushing and shoving. It won't be long before their jousting becomes serious once rutting season starts.

In the picture below, you not only see the two young bucks but a couple of does near the trees.

We had a very nice time at the refuge and wouldn't mind going back.