[Paddlewise] trip report

      Two of us drove to the south jetty of the Columbia River in Oregon.
We did not bring kayaks. Our attire was standard cross-country skiing garb.
(There had been a Pacific storm the night before, with high winds and
drenching rain. The power went out just after 3 am.) We climbed the
observation tower that overlooks the south jetty. The view was stunning.
Winds of 40+ knots buffeted us. The tower, which is constructed of
heavy timbers, was swaying back and forth. The scene was nuclear.
Large breakers could be seen everywhere, and extended virtually to
the horizon. Water was exploding over the jetty in majestic plumes.
There were no surfers to be seen. It was difficult to see salt water,
as 99.99% of the water's surface was breakers and sea foam. I had never
seen anything as wild and dynamic as we did this weekend. After some
time spent on the platform, we were driven off back to the parking
lot by a rain squall. It was very comforting to be able to retreat
into the car. On the way back to town we noticed many downed trees
and much standing water. We saw no kayakers or surfers anywhere.
Just as well, since they would have needed rescue in short order.
I think my next trip will be across the living room to the TV remote
control and a few football games. I've had enough excitement for now.

BRC
***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed
here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire
responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author.
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************