On a recent family trip to the Olympic Peninsula, we stopped by Kalaloch Beach to visit the “Tree of Life.”
Also known as “The Root Cave,” the tree grows at the top of a small coastal bluff near the Kalaloch Campground.
The tree continues to grow despite having an exposed root system. Could it get adequate water from the foggy days and rain along the Washington coast? That’s my guess.
The sun had already risen above the horizon, backlighting the tree when we arrived at the beach. With clear blue skies, I focused on capturing the tree and its root system after waiting my turn at a photo.
Using the sun to add an element to the sky, I used a camera technique to create a sun star. This trick radiates beams of light from the sun, adding more interest to an otherwise blank sky.
The tree is in a fragile location along the coastal section of the Olympic National Park. One severe winter storm could mean the end of this unique and wonderful marvel of nature. I’m hoping it stays with us for many more years.
