Old logging road trail has its ups and downs

A full-size sitka spruce that has grown out of a redwood stump farther north. (The Daily Triplicate/Richard Wiens)

We were just getting into the up-and-down rhythm of Rellim Ridge Trail, massive redwood stumps bearing witness to its logging road past and sprawling branches of sitka spruces highlighting the look of its newer woods.

Then the Coast Guard helicopter buzzed us.

At least that’s how I irrationally perceived the startling first moment, although that “whup whup whup” of its rotor blades seemed awfully close overhead.

Use fresh ones for classic Eggs Benedict, Potato Torta

Butter simmers in a sauce pan. (The Daily Triplicate/Bryant Anderson)

Eggs don’t have to be just scrambled or over-easy for breakfast. They can be poached in a classic dish like Eggs Benedict or used as a binder in a Potato Torta.

These dishes are great for a weekend brunch or just  a late breakfast, said Devon and Michelle Morgante, the owners of Vita Cucina in Crescent City.

Eggs Benedict is “one of the those special treats,” Devon said.

A warm meal made of protein-rich eggs is especially great during the type of weather Del Norters have been experiencing lately.

“On a cold, rainy day, brunch food is nice to have,” Devon said.

Nearby trail is surprisingly remote

Below the Enderts Beach overlook, the Crescent Beach section of the Coastal Trail traverses lush ocean bluffs. (The Daily Triplicate/Richard Wiens)

Almost everyone has been to the overlook at the end of Enderts Beach Road, the one with the stunning view of majestic rows of waves in the foreground and Crescent City in the background.

And most folks have probably also been to the oceanside picnic area off of Enderts Beach Road.

But how many of you have walked the two-mile section of Coastal Trail between the two points? I’d guess not many. That’s partly because I’ve done it twice and encountered no other humans, but mostly because the stretch has an eerie remoteness, as if deep in the backcountry even though it’s only a few hundred feet from the beach and actually crisscrosses the road.

January thru March schedule

Smith River Days will be held on Saturday, Aug. 21, this year and will once again include the Fireman’s Pancake Break­fast, parade, lots of free children’s activities, live entertainment, Fireman’s Waterball Com­petition, many vendors and local artists, Shopping Cart Races,  Smith River Historical Assoc. Booth, Lib­rary Book Sale, the always exciting Lawn­mower Races, and much more. 

For more information call Colleen at 487-3025.