Sunday, September 2, 2012

Russian Gulch State Park


View Russian Gulch State Park - September 2012 in a larger map

What
  • Hiking
  • View of Pacific Ocean
  • Devil’s Punchbowl
  • Waterfalls

More Info
  • $8/car parking fee
  • Multiple parking spaces in the park

As soon as we entered the park entrance, we took the trail to the first right and started walking on the trail surrounded by redwood and other tall trees. There are several places along the trail that offer a magnificent view of the bridge about the Russian River and several natural hole-in-the-rock formations. The waters displayed a deep green color. There were several picnic benches and BBQ pits along the trail.

Bridge above Russian River

We continued walking until we reached the thing that I so desperately wanted to see – Devil’s Punchbowl. The 100 foot diameter Punchbowl was formed by the formation of a natural tunnel from the ocean. The view of the fierce waters making its way through the tunnel into the Punchbowl was both freaky and fascinating. Ropes and poles have been placed along the circumference for safety. We walked around the Punchbowl and continued walking on the trail along the ocean. The trails are not well marked and parts of the trail are narrow and have tall dry shrubs on either sides.

Devil's Punchbowl

The Russian Gulch State Park also has a beautiful waterfall that one can hike to. We were completely enervated after the long day and the park was going to close in 30 minutes. Hence, continued on the trail to return to the parking lot.

Natural hole-in-the-rock formations

Useful Resources

Nearby Locations

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