La La Push

Celea McInerny
Mar 26, 2016
3 min read

With the seasons changing, it was finally time to pull the gang in and go on an adventure. My best friend, Sara, had just completed her undergraduate school from Western Washington University and she asked me to take some graduation pictures for her. I wanted them to turn out as well as possible, so I knew an amazing destination was in order. I decided to pick La Push because their accommodations are spectacular and we can stay right on the beach, in the middle of all the beauty.

I reserved a classic A-frame cabin with hot water and a shower, and Mac was of course able to join. We left early in the morning to catch the 7:05am ferry to Bainbridge Island. This wasn't a popular time so we boarded without any problems. Once we got on the ferry we grabbed some coffee and snacks from galley and watched as we approached Bainbridge Island.

The weather forecast was not ideal. with predictions of 100% rain. But the Olympic Peninsula has such a variable climate that I just urged everyone to keep positive thoughts. We then came across Lake Crescent and decided this would be a great spot for some dock and umbrella shots. I even got a cheap portrait reflector off of Amazon and was so eager to use it. We had so much fun running around the small lakeside location. And it was just starting to sprinkle with some blue sky so it was perfect for the clear umbrella prop.

We then decided to make carne asada tacos for dinner, so we stopped by Walmart to pick up some supplies. $100 later we left with snacks, drinks, and an Easter cookie kit. I dragged the group down to La Push to show them the hotel and then to Second Beach for a short hike. At this point, the rain and wind had picked up and we were drenched. Eager to stay in the forest, we eventually came to the beach and enjoyed the view. Mac had been having a blast through this all, he loves climbing muddy hills and across the fallen beach driftwood.

We eventually checked into our cabin, warmed up, and started making food. It was so great being surrounded by such fun and loving company, I couldn't have wished for a more perfect trip. We eventually passed out early and woke up to blue skies on the beach! Sara and I went to the beach and every shot was just stunning. I curled Sara's hair and put some metallic temporary tattoos on her. It was the most perfect scene and everyone was so impressed. At this point we decided to let Mac roam free on the beach-something that has never occurred before. We figured because there were so many of us and only a flat beach to run, the risk was minimal.

The experience of Mac free was equivalent to freeing the whale, Willy. Mac had total control over his physical conditions and was running faster than ever. He scoured the land, taking him wherever his nose felt. I am so happy to have given my little crazy mutt that experience. After La Push, Rialto Beach was next on the itinerary. We traveled to the parking lot, only to find the road was closed. We decided to skip the six mile round trip journey and headed to Sul Duc Falls instead. Some of the trail had snow on it which made me excited for the final destination. The falls weren't snowy, but gushing with water-yes. It was a beautiful lush forest to walk and always one of my favorites.

Last on our agenda was a pit stop at Sonic for some food and shakes. We then took the 8pm ferry back to Seattle. It was an adventurous and relaxing trip and one to top in the future-happy exploring!