Torrey pines, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Torrey Pines

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and adjacent protected areas encompass only 3,000 acres but include a lagoon, beach, and coastal headlands.  Renown as home to North America's rarest pine, the Reserve's biological diversity is extraordinary.  When working on the book, Torrey Pines:  Landscape and Legacy, I wanted to limit evidence of human presence, a challenge since three million people live just beyond the Reserve's borders.  I preferred to let the natural world speak for itself.  Today this environmental treasure is under immense pressure.  More than ever, I believe that Torrey Pines is a place for walking slowly.  Very slowly.