Highlights of Garrapata State Park
Garrapata. Garrapata. It is difficult to understand how a noun that inspires all sorts of disgusting thoughts can be used to describe such a beautiful place. I am referring to the Garrapata State Park located in the northern part of Big Sur (about 7 miles south of Carmel). Garrapata means “thick” in Spanish. After some comprehensive research, I haven’t been able to find why this park bears this name. Different areas within the park are named after the families who owned the land before the state acquire it. However, there are no references to the garrapata origins. Since this land was used to raise cattle, I am assuming the current name has something to do with the little blood suckers infesting the livestock. But let’s forget about the name for a moment and focus on what it is important. In this place you can find a jagged coastline, white sands, redwood-filled canyons, 60 species of mammals and 110 species of birds. I do not know about you but this is what I call amazing!...