After many years dreaming of walking the shores of Olympic National Park I finally found myself standing on Second Beach September of 2011. It was all I’d imagined and more.

Prehistoric scale fallen Spruce lined the shores forcing creative route finding immediately upon emerging from the trail’s steep decent through the woods.

We walked the shore for the morning marveling at tidal pools, the seeming infinitude of the Pacific Ocean, sea stacks and intricate patterns in the sand. The mist that accompanies the sea drifted to the horizon; a salty haze obscuring too distant a view, and providing ample atmosphere for what we could see.

When it was time to head back up the trail, hauling the camera and tripod encouraged slow motion. Stopping to catch my breath, I noticed something in the hole of the Sitka Spruce to my right. There was almost no light and at first I could barely pick out a shell towards the bottom. As my eyes adjusted they recognized a crab claw, some smooth stones and shells from the shore below and a few other natural items all seemingly laid in place with care. When I saw the glasses I realized: this was a some sort of shrine; an homage to Second Beach, where travelers laid their findings on the return from their visit.

I imagined for a moment these others who’d experienced the same peace, solitude and majesty I’d just beheld – and wishing to somehow thank or honor, or pay tribute to through this simple expression.

This image remains one of my favorites from the trip due to the communal sweetness of such an act, with people who’d have otherwise been strangers.

I left nothing, choosing instead to record this image.

Mamiya RZ67 Pro II
Mamiya M 1:4 ƒ’=65mm 1:4 L-A
Kodak TMY400-frame 05-069
30 sec. @ ƒ’32
Roll 119, frame 7, September 19, 2011