After enjoying the view of downtown and the Golden Gate Beach from Hawk Hill in the Marin Headlands, peering out at the Pacific from Muir Beach Overlook and getting sandy in the quiet cove of Muir Beach, my boyfriend and I took our San Francisco outdoor adventures to Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve to take in the beauty of California’s majestic coast redwoods. Here in the Russian River Valley, we found peace and quiet among 805 acres of serene redwoods and spent some early morning time walking the well-kept trails and exploring the forest. Unique features of the forest include the Parson Jones Tree, the tallest tree in the grove, measuring more than 310 feet in height, and the Colonel Armstrong Tree, the oldest tree, estimated to be more than 1,400 years old. Standing under these inspiring giants, enjoying their piney scent and hearing nothing but the occasional faraway animal sound in a peaceful environment was relaxing and rejuvenating, a much-appreciated break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It was difficult to see, but we learned the drought California has been experiencing for the past four years is having an impact on the coast redwood range. According to Todd Dawson, a UC Berkeley Professor of Integrative Biology who has been studying redwood ecology and physiology for more than 25 years, young redwoods are losing their leaves and not growing very much due to the severity of the drought. “Many trees are experiencing the highest levels of water stress we’ve ever measured. We’ve not seen much mortality, but many trees have thin crowns and do not look healthy,” said Dawson. “Our biggest question is just how far these trees can be pushed?” My hope is that protection efforts such as the endeavors of the Save the Redwoods League are successful enough to ensure a healthy future for these incredible trees, allowing myself and others to enjoy their beauty for years to come. — Monique Barrett, eFlyer editor/associate editor