Iconic Forms

Iconic Forms
            In the early days of getting my autistic son out in nature to walk, a hiking buddy took us on a wild, windy, rainy walk up a steep hill in Pacifica, just north of Devil’s Slide. Our outings were on a set schedule as therapy for my son, and our helper was as game to go out in bad weather as we were.
            We laughed as we worked to get to the top of the steep trail, leaning forward against the wind so as not to get blown away. We didn’t stay long at the top of the crest, but during that short time, I was captivated by the sight of a zigzag rock formation just offshore. The rocks jutted out in striped layers, triangles pointing up in parallel, like an abstract model of the back of a dinosaur, or a shark fin. I’ve never seen another rock formation quite like it.
            Once that shape was captured in my mind, I noticed it in the distance from locations north and south along the coast.
            Though it is fifteen miles away, I can see the signature zigzag triangle form of Pedro Point from near my house in San Francisco. This sculpture created by nature has an iconic form I’d recognize from anywhere.
            The trail to reach the bluff right above Pedro Point is steep, and the winds can be overwhelming there. We don’t make it a regular hiking destination, but it feels like an old familiar friend every time I see it.
            Is there an iconic structure that feels like a grounding guidepost for you? Keep finding comfort in the world around you!
            This week’s Hike Notes, Pacifica Pier, take readers to an easy stroll fishing pier in Pacifica, that offers views of Pedro Point to the south and a view of Mount Tam in Marin to the north.
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New this week:
Hike Notes 213: Pacifica Pier