What a super, summer day it was here in the Puget Sound Region…plenty of warmth and sunshine! It doesn’t get much better than this! And what a great day to head to a beach, which was exactly what I did. I took a short drive to Chambers Bay in University Place and drove down the hill to the recreational meadow to stroll along the walking paths along the shores of Puget Sound. The locals use the walking paths for their daily walks above the golf course and along the bottom, near the water. The only thing separating the walkers from the water is the Burlington Northern railroad tracks. But that is overcome by a bridge walkway, whereby one can walk down steps to the beach.

From the bridge one gets an eyeful of scenic views of islands and the Olympic Mountains to the west.

The bridge walkway slopes gently downward and gives one a couple of choices. One is to walk down to the beach via stairs, and the other is to take in the sweeping view from a platform that extends out over the water.

If you’re a train enthusiast, this is a great spot to capture photos of freight trains, as well as Amtrak trains that use the tracks. Trains come and go very frequently here.

It’s unfortunate that, starting in 2017, Amtrak will no longer be using this scenic water route when traveling through Tacoma. Burlington Northern Railroad has been after them for years to use an alternate route so as to free up more track for its freight trains. Starting next year, Amtrak will run directly through the urban areas of Tacoma and Lakewood. I, for one, will sorely miss the scenic water route.

Down along the stony beach, one can collect colorful stones or gaze at them through the clear water. As well, there is plenty of driftwood to play around on. One thing to keep in mind is that most of the beaches along Puget Sound are stony, since these deep waters were carved out by glaciers. Wear well insulated footwear if you don’t want to stub your toes. It would be wise to protect your feet from the uneven, wobbly, rocky surfaces.

Ah, what a sight! I’ll be back, again.

Photos property of Peggy A Thompson