Drive along California’s coast and you’ll catch glimpses of lighthouses. Some are just a few steps away…others require a hike. All provide spectacular views of the coast.
Point Reyes is the windiest place on the Pacific Coast and the second foggiest place on the North American continent, according to the National Park Service. Built in 1870 it was retired from use in 1975 when the Coast Guard installed an automatic light.
The lens and mechanism were crafted in France and shipped to the US on a steamer around the tip of South America.
Since our National Parks turn 100 years old in 2016, plan a visit to this part of the National Seashore Monument. Be prepared for a winding drive to the observation parking lot. Then…308 steps lead you down the side of the cliff to the lighthouse. It’s worth it…even the 308 steps back up to the top.
For more information, directions, and hours of operation visit the National Parks website. http://www.nps.gov/pore/learn/historyculture/people_maritime_lighthouse.htm