Salt Point Trail

Grassy bluffs run above jagged sandstone along the Salt Point Trail as it traces the coastline just north of Jenner. If look closely at the rocks near the waterline and you will find tafoni, a honeycomb pattern carved into the sandstone by salt and weather over centuries. Depending on the tides and how rough the waves are you can usually work in close on these formations with a macro or standard lens for something unique to capture. Wide shots are amazing here, especially where the trail rounds the bluff just south of Stump Beach Cove and opens onto long views up the coastline. Fog rolls in often here, and it softens the light nicely and sometimes adding a moodiness to the shot. Midday sun can flatten the sandstone detail, so early morning or late afternoon light brings out the texture and water colour the best. The southern end of the trail starts from the Gerstle Cove parking area with a short, steep detour that drops down to a cobblestone beach if you want to capture the water at eye level. The Salt Point Trail also has a northern trailhead right by Stump Beach Cove, a good alternate starting point if you want to work that section of coast first. Since this trail is part of the Salt Point State Park, there will be a day use fee in order to access this shooting location and dogs are not allowed on the trail. Ideally aim to give yourself a couple of hours to slowly explore the whole trail and the coves at either end. (Jenner, California, United States)