Review: Point Cabrillo Light Station by Hairy Putter

14 03 2012

My dad at the lighthouse

Well “shiver me timbers” if I did not receive a piece of bark-mail from my good friend, Dillon the Docent Dog, of Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park, reminding me that it was Whale Festival time in Mendocino County. He was barking the fact that the lighthouse is one of the best places on the Mendocino Coast to view the migrating whales and the park was going to be having lots of fun activities celebrating all things Whale. I have been meaning to talk about the wonderful State Parks that Mendocino County has, so this was a perfect opportunity to revisit this park and join in the whale watching fun.

Located between the villages of Caspar and Mendocino, Point Cabrillo State Park is situated on 296.5 acres of open space and unobstructed shoreline with plenty of hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The park welcomes canine visitors but requires us to be leashed for our safety as the cliffs along the ocean are steep , the trails full of interesting smells that may distract us from paying attention to our uprights and some of the wildlife that share the park are not always friendly to us. Please bring disposable bags and water for us, as the park does not provide these and we can get thirsty. (You can get some awesome collapsible doggie bowls that fit nicely in a pocket, purse or backpack for just such occasions.)

Lighthouse Keepers Home

The first inhabitants of the area were the Pomo Indians who used the land for summer hunting and gathering. By the 1850s settlers and lumbermen began using the land for grazing and harvesting lumber; as the settler’s population increased, the Pomo tribes’ use dwindled. In 1850 it was the shipwreck of the brig Frolic along its shores that alerted a San Francisco lumber dealer, Harry Meiggs, to the vast redwood groves concentrated along the Mendocino Coast. Consequently with Meiggs’ construction of a lumber mill in 1851 at Big River, Mendocino as we presently know it began.

After the 1906 San Francesco earthquake damaged the Point Arena Lighthouse the need for a another lighthouse between Cape Mendocino and Bodega Bay was apparent as much of the wood being used to rebuild San Francisco was shipped from Mendocino County. Construction began in 1908 and the lighthouse at Point Cabrillo was completed one year later. It was first managed by the U.S. Lighthouse Service until 1939, then by the U.S. Coast Guard until 1991 when it was taken over by the California Coastal Conservancy and finally the California State Parks system acquired the park in 2002.

The park today has several original circa 1900’s structures on it; four are open to visitors including the Lighthouse, Lighthouse Museum and one of the original Lightkeeper’s cottages. The Head Lightkeeper’s cottage and two additional cottages are now vacation rental. The main vacation rental house is not pet friendly but one of the guest cottages is and rental information is available at www.mendocinovacations.com. The rehabilitation of the park and its structures has been undertaken by the nonprofit Point Cabrillo Lightkeepers Association. We are allowed into all the other buildings. Dillon tells me that if we are really well behaved and charm the docents that a treat at the lighthouse Gift Shop will be forthcoming. The tower of the lighthouse itself is not accessible to us as the stairs are very step and narrow. There are, however, benches dotted in and around the park, where we can wait, chaperoned by an upright while the other uprights tour the lighthouse. The benches are also great place for a picnic.

The fun of the park begins at the entrance, which is approximately ½ mile from the lighthouse. There are various trails to the lighthouse and a paved road, so comfortable walking shoes for the uprights are recommended. Those uprights with disabilities can drive (very slowly) to within a couple of hundred yards of the lighthouse and make their way from there. Point Cabrillo is also a great park to explore by bicycle. Along the paved road to the lighthouse are various signs that have statistical information and fun facts about whales and other wildlife in the park to amuse the uprights on their journey. We will be far too busy sniffing and marking to read the signs, but it is a good time when the uprights pause for a more intense nose-to-the-ground investigation.

The day that I visited it was a perfect weather day on the Coast. No wind, clear skies, plenty of sun and a calm ocean, all optimum conditions for whale watching. A giant jigsaw puzzle of a Grey Whale was laid out on one of the lawns and many young and adult uprights became engrossed in trying to put it together; it wasn’t as easy as it looked. I paid close attention as the puzzle was not too far from the refreshment stand where hot dogs and popcorn were being enjoyed. I shared some of my dad’s Bratwurst and it was yummy delicious. The Coast Guard were also on hand showcasing one of their search and rescue craft as well as giving an operational tour of the lighthouse to those brave enough to climb up to the top. There were plenty of docents and whale/marine experts on hand to talk to the uprights about the history of the park, how to best observe the whales and walking/historical tours were available of the park and lighthouse. During the Whale Festival there was a $5 charge to climb the lighthouse and a $5 suggested donation for parking. Otherwise, parking at the park is free and suggested donation(s) are requested for the lighthouse tour.

Dillon & I at Point Cabrillo Light Station

Point Cabrillo Light Station is still a vital, functioning part of the safety of the Mendocino Coast and is operational 24/7, 365 days of the year, reflecting the light every 10 seconds to signal marine traffic. The park has been lovingly maintained and restored by volunteers and the generosity of visitors and donors. My friend, Dillon the Docent Dog, is an advocate for the protection of Point Cabrillo and several other of Mendocino County’s State Parks that have been threatened with closure this year. Please take a moment to check out his blog, www.dillonthedocentdog.wordpress.com, and join him in his quest to “Save Our Parks”. For more on this important subject you can also visit my comment blog, www.hairyscomments.com .

Whether the ocean be full of whales or not, Point Cabrillo Light Station Historic Park is a must-go-to-attraction while visiting the Coast. Bird watchers, marine watchers, wildlife watchers, architecture buffs, history and maritime enthusiasts will all get something wonderful out of a visit to Point Cabrillo. If you see Dillon the Docent Dog when visiting and his upright Kevin, bark that Hairy sent you.


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Review: The Skunk Train by Hairy Putter

7 10 2010

I did not get to Hogwarts, but I did ride the Skunk Train

Whistles are blowing, engines are churning, steam is bellowing, passengers are gathering and ‘All Aboard’ is sounding.  My excitement is building as the activity on the platform increases. Suddenly I am being lifted and carried up the steps, then gently placed down at the entrance to my carriage. I walk (well – excitedly strut) into the car and acknowledge the pats and words of welcome from my fellow passengers. I find my seat and after my uprights have placed my travel cushion into position, I hop up and prop my paws on the window ledge for support and stick my head out of the window. With a final cacophony of sound; whistles, bells and engine noise, we are off and full steam ahead on a glorious North Coast day for my first steam train adventure aboard the California Western Railway’s Engine No. 45, with service from Fort Bragg to Northspur and Willits.


The Skunk Train is celebrating 125 years of operation this year, and as part of the festivities, I have been invited by the Chief Skunk and my very good upright friend, Robert Pinoli, to be a part of this magical piece of history.  Skunk Train travel for pets is a new endeavor and one that I am exceedingly enthusiastic about; however, there are some very important guidelines and safety issues to impart to your uprights.  First, you must be a very well behaved and a people-friendly pooch.  If you are small enough to travel in a carrier, that is a good idea, and for those of us traveling on leash, a soft muzzle is preferred. We must remain on leash at all times but we are as free as our uprights to travel from enclosed cars to the open air observation car. This winter the Skunk Train will be building an off leash play and potty area at Northspur for our convenience.

 

The Train Singer

From the moment we picked up our tickets at the Skunk Train Depot office in Fort Bragg to our return, every member of the Skunk Train crew made me feel so very welcome. I was even serenaded by the Train Singer (Greg Schindel) with a delightful song about a dog called “Boomer Jack” that traveled the C.W.R. long ago. Jessie, our host in the 1st class carriage, served her guests sparkling wine and hors d’oeuvres. Jessie always made sure I had plenty of water to drink and the uprights had plenty of opportunities to try a variety of Mendocino County wines throughout the trip, accompanied by mini quiches, cheese and crackers (yum, cheese – my favorite) and finally chocolate (sadly – never for canines) and biscotti.

C. R. Johnson (Steve Worthen)

On this trip we were joined by “C.R. Johnson” the original owner of C.W.R, authentically brought back to life by actor Steven Worthen, who regaled the passengers with entertaining tales and factual insights of the Railway.

Hairy in his seat

So picture me, comfy on my cushion, head catching the breeze from the open window, watching the giant redwoods, sparkling river and the chance sighting of a human inhabitant of the cottages located close to the tracks as we traverse into the thick of the countryside. I’ve been lulled to contentment for 1 ½ hours with the rhythm of the ride, the delicious food, attention, songs and tales until we arrive at Northspur. There is a 45 minute stop over which gives passengers an opportunity to stretch legs and paws, partake in great BBQ food, beverages and desserts – the entertainment just continues and you can even do some shopping. Then it’s all aboard again for the return trip to Fort Bragg. I spent most of the return in the open air observation carriage meeting my public and being the center of attention, as is my custom.

Whether you are a visitor to Fort Bragg or a resident of the area, a ride on the Skunk Train is a wonderful historical experience that gives a wonderful sense of what and how transportation was before the invention of the automobile.

The Skunk Train offers a variety of trips and visiting their website at www.skunktrain.com is the best way to find out all about the various excursions and exciting themed trips. Hopefully soon you will be full steam ahead yourselves and remember your water bowl, waste bags and treats.

This full- steam- ahead- locomotive canine fan gives the Skunk Train four very enthusiastic Paws.


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Review: Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens by Hairy Putter

10 05 2010

Before I begin to tell you about the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, I have an important message for all of my canine friends:  

“YOU ARE NOT GOIN’ TO BELIEVE THIS PLACE!!!!   

First of all, when you go through the entrance to the Gardens, guess what they have sitting there?  A treat jar!   But wait, when you leave the gardens, guess what?  The treat jar is still there!  You can have another treat!  You might be thinking – can this get any better?  Yes, it can.   

As you enter the gardens themselves, if you turn to your right there is Cowlicks Creamery.  Cowlicks gives us FREE ice cream!!!  So, at the gardens it is a beautifully simple concept: door, treat and then ice cream!!!  And repeat.  I don’t just call this place the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens; I call it HEAVEN!!!”  

From the moment we pull into the parking lot, I know what to expect and my excitement increases.  After we enter the Visitors Center, on the left is the gift shop where visitors to the gardens pay their admission and get a brief orientation and map. Your uprights should spend some time here as the store has some cool books, gifts and gardening items.  Then – guess what my canine brethren? We get into the gardens for FREE!!  Yes, dogs get to romp in this garden paradise for free.  

After receiving the docent’s warm and inviting welcome, it is time for my first treat.  There it is, on my left, a cookie Jar in the shape of a perfect bone. It is in my sight, but holy dog breath, way out of reach for me.  Even though I try to stand on my hind legs to retrieve it, this is just too tantalizing, but I’m too short.  “Hurry – hurry dad”, I say with my-oh-so-humble-have-pity-on-me eyes. “Yes, oh yes”, at last he is opening the jar;  “I’m sitting dad, look I’m sitting” and just as I am about to pass out from anticipation here comes the hand with the treat in it.  I take it eagerly and appreciatively.  

In the Sculpture Garden

Now that I have had my first treat, I’m ready to start my adventure in the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.  

Conveniently located just by the door that leads into the gardens are umbrellas for inclement weather and disposable bags your caregivers can take so they can pick up after us. Just through the doors on your left as you enter the gardens are water bowls for us.  

This one-of-a-kind coastal botanical garden incorporates 47 acres of assorted horticulture; from formal gardens to the natural and wild.  There is even a vegetable garden and orchard and they all await your exploration.  You will also marvel at the sculpture and art installations that appear throughout the garden.  No matter what time of the year you visit, the gardens will satisfy all the senses.  

My fellow canines, you will be so glad when your caregivers share the garden experience with you.  We get to walk safely on a leash while traversing a multitude of different terrains; we are never without a good place to sniff.  We get to stroll through all the various gardens, woods and coastal headlands, pausing at will to take in a close up of a particular plant, sculpture or stunning view; these become great opportunities to explore where other critters may have been before taking dog notes as we go.  .  

Now some information for your caregivers: All year there are amazing and interesting plants to see. Most have identification markers so the uprights can educate themselves (bringing a notebook to write down the names of your favorites might be a good idea). Seasonal blooms include rhododendron, magnolia, dahlia and heather.  Plants bloom in a beautiful canvas of color for the eyes to appreciate; many of the blooms fill the nose with their delightful perfume.  The diverse foliage on the magnificent species of plants, just makes you want to reach out and caress them, so your hands (that would be “paws” for me) can discover and explore their unique textures. You will be serenaded on your walk by the cheerful chirping and buzzing of several species of birds and insects that call the gardens home. As you near the coastal headlands, listen for a cascade of running water as it travels towards the sea.  Culminating at the ocean’s edge, it may even include the accompaniment of baying sea-lions.  Be sure to tip your eyes skyward occasionally, to witness the formations of flying elegance displayed by Pelicans and Canadian Geese, not to mention the aerial acrobatics of seagulls. You may time your visit during whale watching seasons and experience the thrill of a sighting as some of the largest creatures on earth make their way ‘from sea to shining sea’.  

Ocean view from the gardens

Throughout there are great opportunities to pause and connect with this amazing environment. The gardens offer several delightful places to enjoy a picnic lunch (visitors are welcome to bring a picnic).  Cowlicks Creamery also sells sandwiches, coffee, tea, soft drinks and other light fare.)  One especially magical setting is the Dahlia Garden, especially when it is in bloom.  It features every type and color of dahlia imaginable. This enchanting oasis makes  a beautiful backdrop for a very romantic wedding/commitment ceremony, in fact, for any special  occasion; the gardens are a beautiful location.  

Throughout the year the Botanical Gardens offer workshops, educational programs, concerts and many cultural events. During mushroom season the gardens offer free mushroom identification tours. For all activities and events visit www.gardenbythesea.org.  

"Good ice cream!!!"

As you meander back to the main building you may find the temptation of purchasing a plant or two from the gardens nursery irresistible. I, however, find that a stop at Cowlicks Creamery (April through September) is a necessity. All lovers of handmade, delicious ice cream must not pass up the opportunity to round off a visit to this magical place without indulging the last of the senses, taste. Again, my canine brethren remember we get FREE, yes I mean free, dog-sized tastes of Cowlicks’ delicious vanilla ice cream.  So my fellow canines, how many places can you name where you can meander for hours, safely in the company of your caregivers while exercising the mind and body? Enjoy nature in an unspoiled setting with all its tantalizing smells, gaze at the wonders of nature’s own sculptures and human artists’ ornamentations, all for free?  Now that you and your caregivers have enjoyed your visit to the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens why not become a member? Even if you are a visitor to the Fort Bragg area, becoming a member will get you free and discounted admission to over 80 gardens throughout the USA, as well as supporting the development and maintenance and of this coastal gem for generations to come.  

Your attention again my canine brethren! “Don’t forget that the cookie jar is now located on your right as you exit, don’t let your caregiver just walk by it, because I surely don’t.”  

Hairy excitedly gives the Mendocino Botanical Gardens, for dog friendliness, exercise opportunities, quality time spent with the uprights, free treats and ice cream – four very enthusiastic paws.  

  

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
18220 North Highway 1
Fort Bragg, California 95437
707.964.4352


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Review: Liquid Fusion Kayaking by Hairy Putter

17 12 2009

Adventures in kayaking with Liquid Fusion Kayaks
Hairy discovers his sea legs

In anticipation of a Thanksgiving visit from my best canine buddy, Jai-Ram, and his caregiver mother, Carol, my dad’s decided to see how I would take to messing about on the water. It was about time I got to use my life preserver (I have only worn it modeling for a segment on TV) and if I liked the experience, I could then take my visitors for a new and unique canine/human shared adventure while they are on their vacation.

Dog-friendly Liquid Fusion Kayaking is located in Fort Bragg, Mendocino County, California in south Noyo Harbor on Dolphin. It is owned and operated by my good human friends, Jeff and Cate, along with their canine children, Bear and Aften. Liquid Fusion Kayaking specializes in river and sea kayaking, with adventures and classes for all levels and proficiency, from beginners (like me), to seasoned and professional kayakers. To view the full range of services and pricing, please visit their website at www.liquidfusionkayaking.com.

The sun was shining and I was feeling very energetic as we arrived. Immediately I was greeted by Bear and Aften. There was lots of sniffing and tail wagging as introductions were made. Liquid Fusion provides everything for your kayaking trip: they have various kayaks, outerwear, life preservers, etc. Do dress warmly and appropriately for the water as it can get cool in areas and water (outside of the groomers) I have found is very cold as well as wet when encountered. Once I was dressed in my life preserver we walked a short distance to a sheltered cove on the banks of the Noyo River were a kayak was waiting. Having never been in a kayak before, my dad’s felt more comfortable having a professional instructor take me out on the river for the first time. Cate got into the kayak and when she was in position, I was gently handed to her by Jeff and placed in her lap. After a few kisses from me, I placed my front paws on the bow of the kayak and Jeff gently eased Cate and I away from shore. 

Cate and I kayaking

I was captivated immediately by the motion, sights, and sounds. We saw all sorts of birds, even the lazy sea lions on the bank of the river raised their head in curiosity and one even swam close to us, taunting me. I have to say that most of all, my reflection off the side of the kayak when I turned my head held the greatest fascination. Cate had no trouble paddling as I did not wiggle. I did turn around to give her a few more kisses occasionally, but for the most part, I just cruised with Cate on the river as if I had always been an old seafaring dog. I took to kayaking “like a fish to water”, as my new kayaking postcards attest. You can view them on my website.

With my sea legs firmly established, I was now ready to take my friend, Jai-Ram, his mum, Carol, and one of my dads, Alan, on a Liquid Fusion Kayaking adventure for themselves. This time it was Jeff’s turn to instruct and chaperone us. Arriving promptly, the four of us got dressed in our life preservers and our caregivers opted to wear water protective outwear also. Once we were all dressed, Jeff went over the route we would take, general safety tips and guidelines as well as the correct ways to use the paddle. We then proceeded to a different starting point from my previous trip, this time it was in the harbor with all the “big” boats. To reach the kayaks we walked through the harbor’s restaurant outdoor seating area, patrons were very excited to see us all parade by and lots of attention was bestowed upon Jai-Ram and me. Jai -Ram as usual wanted to stop to check for food.

Once we were at the launch jetty, Jeff asked which of our caregivers wanted to be in the front or back, as this time we were going in a two-person kayak. Carol chose the front end for her and Jai-Ram, while my dad and I were to ride in the back. Alan would be operating the rudder. Jeff showed Carol and Alan the proper way to enter the kayak and where Alan should put his feet to reach the peddles that steer the kayak. Once Carol and Alan were securely seated, Jeff helped Jai-Ram and me get aboard. Jai-Ram was a bit anxious at first, but with some reassuring from Carol, he soon settled down and we were ready to go.

The tranquility of the trip

Jeff instructed us how to steer ourselves out into the harbor, as he settled into his kayak. The water was calm as we exited the harbor joining the Noyo River. It did not take long for Alan and Carol to get into the rhythm of rowing, mastering the steering and for Jai-Ram to relax. As we meandered gently along, Jeff directed our gaze to various spots along the river bank that held a treasure trove of bird life: King Fishers, Herons and several varieties of ducks. Jeff also pointed out Osprey nests and shared his and Cates previous encounters of other wildlife sightings. We exchanged greetings with the people fishing from a bridge that were just tickled to see two adults and two canines passing them by in a Kayak. As we progressed further the river became crystal clear and we paused to take in the breathtaking beauty of the mirror reflection of the overhanging tress and ourselves perfectly reflected, even the usual wiggle worm Jai-Ram, became as motionless as the water.

Noyo Harbor, Fort Bragg

Kayaking is a wonderful way to have more quality experiences and time with your pet. It was a magical time being in an environment where the only sounds were the conversations of nature. The time passed by effortlessly and with Jeff at our side navigating the odd branch and natural obstacle was a breeze. Jeff was even kind enough to bring his water proof camera along so he could take mementos of the trip for us. There is something so special and enchanting about sharing this experience with our human caregivers. We are safely secure in their laps, front paws resting on the surface of the kayak, the flow of air as we glide over the surface of the river gently caresses our fur and the odd drop of water that drips off the paddle gently reminds us that staying put safely in the kayak is very wise.

I strongly encourage you to check to see what kayaking opportunities exist in your area and especially if they are pet friendly. White water rafting and sea kayaking require much more experience and expertise. PLEASE do not take us out into water that could be unpredictable. The trips I have recounted to you were with trained and licensed instructors on a very gentle and shallow part of the Noyo River. There is something to be said “for messing about on the water” kayak style.

I give Liquid Fusion Kayaking four very enthusiastic paws.


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Review: Seaside Beach by Hairy Putter

23 11 2009

Seaside Beach is approximately 6 miles north of Fort Bragg, California on Highway 1.  This beautifully picturesque stretch of sand was shown to me by my great dog friends, Polly & Ruddy.

It is a very pretty drive and takes no more than 15 minutes from Fort Bragg to get to and it is like stepping into another world. Parking is limited with a few spaces at the foot of the beach entrance so cars often park on the narrow verges alongside the road. Be very careful to make sure that all canine children are leashed before allowing them out of the vehicle. The road can often be busy with traffic.  
 
Once you have crossed the road with us safely leashed, proceed onto the beach several feet to make sure there can be no double backing by us onto the road. Now you can safely let us off the leash and watch as we excitedly frolic to our hearts content on this pristine and sculptural treasure.
 
This beach is a great place for the chucker, as you can send the ball for great distances and we can chase, chase, chase for what seems like miles. The beach has vast towering rock formations some with hollowed out arches formed naturally by years of crashing waves. When the tide is low, we can go through many of these ocean made arches and sniff out the interesting sea smells.  As you walk along the pristine sand look out for sand dollars and washed up treasures of shinny jewel-like sparkling stones and shells.  You may come across a carcass of sea life, so be diligent that we don’t investigate those too closely.  I like to eat seaweed and too much can upset my tummy so I often hear “NO!” from my human caregivers and when I respond to their liking a treat can be my reward for paying attention.

Seaside Beach is a great beach to bring a picnic too and sit and enjoy the majestic beauty of this northern California gem of a dog friendly beach. Make sure you bring fresh water and a collapsible traveling drinking bowl; we get very hot running and chasing and need clean water to hydrate no matter what the temperature is.
 
Also, bring your cameras as you will want to take lots of pictures of us having the time of our lives. All humans I encounter either have pets with them or are very willing to share the magic of nature with us. Be advised that the natural river that is at the south end of the beach separates Seaside from the beginning of Ten Mile Beach. Ten Mile is not accessible to pets due to the wild life nesting and migration so PLEASE make sure you keep us to the main body of Seaside beach. By all means let us swim and cool off in the river but don’t take us over to the other side.
 
Seaside beach provides NO dog waste bags or trash receptacles so all dog owners must carry disposable waste bags to pick up after their dogs, along with any other trash you generate, PLEASE carry it all out with you.
 
In public spaces please be respectful of all other humans and animals so we can continue to share and enjoy what are unfortunately increasingly becoming less and less public spaces that we can all enjoy together. I rate Seaside Beach three paws out of four.


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