End of the Trail Santa Monica

Historic Interstate Route 66 winds across the western half of the United States, connecting Chicago and San Diego.   US 66 is also known as the Will Rogers Highway, "Main Street of America," and the "Mother Road."   It was one of the original highways within the US Highway System, its first road signs erected in 1926.

It covers a total of 2448 miles and was a major path for those moving or just travelling west.   Its popularity resulted in growth of business and communities along the route.   The Route 66 subculture has even been immortalized in song and literature, although its use as the preferred travelling route has been replaced by the US Superhighways. 

The "End of the Trail" marker for Route 66 can be found at the end of a long steep slope which spills out onto the Santa Monica Pier.

Just about a year ago, we did a whirlwind tour of Santa Monica soaking up the sun, surf and super-cool atmosphere.   In this scene, two teens were hanging off either side of the Route 66 trail marker sign, hamming it up, while their picture is being taken.   I liked the relaxed, carefree, fun feel of the pier.   The warm southern California light tinted the wooden pier and the deep contrasting shadows were on the blue end of the spectrum.  I played with a lot of pure color for other elements like the hat kiosk, bicycle racks and umbrellas, in keeping with the carnival atmosphere.

I'm submitting this one for a Juried Show called "I Love Santa Monica."