This One Destination Has The Absolute Bluest Water In Northern California
By Joanne Kraft|Published August 31, 2016
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Joanne Kraft
Author
Joanne is a fourth-generation Northern Californian. She knows good sour dough bread when she tastes it and understands the best parts of the Golden State are nowhere near Los Angeles.
Did you know the world’s favorite color is blue? As a matter of fact, research shows time and again that we respond to the color blue. It triggers serenity and peace. One source had this to say, “Strong blues will stimulate clear thought and lighter, soft blues will calm the mind and aid concentration.”
When was the last time you went where the water was blue – I mean incredibly blue? It’s not often we get away to enjoy some of the clearest water around. Lucky for us, in Northern California we have so many places to choose it’s hard to pick. Here’s a destination you need to go to appreciate some of the bluest water in our part of the state.
One source shares this about the bluest water and how Russian Gulch got its name, "The name "Russian Gulch" was given to the area by U.S. government surveyors, in honor of the Russian fur trappers who founded Fort Ross fifty miles to the south; according to a more specific local tradition, a deserter from Fort Ross lived at Russian Gulch." I just love that our blue water has a home so full of NORCAL history!
LOTS of spots in this state park have the most crystal blue water!
We'd like to introduce you to The Devil's Punchbowl. We're not exactly sure why the devil would ever make punch, but this is where he makes and serves it, apparently. A blowhole created from a collapsed cave, this is one spectacular image, especially in spring with wildflowers popping up all around.
In the early 1950s, schooners would dock in this cove, which was pretty dangrerous with all the rocks and crashing waves. They'd pick up coastal redwood and even passengers. You can still find iron rings in the headlands that held the schooners in place so many years ago.
What makes the blue water so magical is all the opportunity to enjoy it alongside other places--like hiking Fern Canyon Trails. This hiker said, "From the trailhead, it is a fairly flat 2 miles until you reach your next choice, which will be 1) to continue on the Fern Canyon Trail (.7 miles), 2) opt for the lengthier Fall Loop Trail (1.6 miles), or u-turn up to a third trail option. The first two will take you to the waterfalls."
This area is situated in such a paradise. Just a few miles from the town of Mendocino and Ft. Bragg, you can't go wrong. Water and nature? We're so there!
Take a picnic lunch and sit beside some of the bluest water Northern California has to offer. It's such a spectacular place. Remember to bring your favorite sandwich and your best buddy.
Remember to bring along your favorite camera or pull out your iPhone before you leave. It's always important to snap a few photos to show off...ahem...to show your family back home!
Take it all in. The beauty. The peace and quiet. The opportunities are endless around here.
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