{ Paddling Whether you seek tide-ripped saltwater passages, challenging whitewater, or lakes big and small, Hood Canal is a kayaker, canoer, or paddleboarder’s ideal destination. Few places in the world can match the stunning scenery and easy access of the Hood Canal region. Sea kayakers can explore seemingly endless miles of pristine saltwater shoreline, cruise the reaches of Lake Cushman in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains, or glide with the gentle currents of the Skokomish and Tahuya Rivers.
Wet your paddle with these adventure ideas: Explore SKOKOMISH RIVER, using public put-in on Sunnyside Road, just north of the Skokomish Valley Road. Launch at Shelton Marina or Walker Park and paddle (with the tide) out HAMMERSLEY INLET to HOPE ISLAND. Ride the tide back for a little help with the paddle. There is a strong current in this passage that is difficult to paddle against but great to use to your advantage. It is necessary to be aware of the tides. If you miss the tide, head to the inlet shores to escape the prevailing currents. Hope Island can also be reached with an easy paddle from Arcadia Point boat launch. At the launch you will find plenty of parking and easy access to the water. HOPE ISLAND has sandy beaches all around the island for easy landing and plenty of trails to explore.
Paddle the lower reaches of the SKOKOMISH near Union, explore the shores of HOOD CANAL or explore any of the lakes. A great Mason County destination is LAKE KOKANEE, or Lower Lake Cushman; this scenic lake can channel winds, watch for weather changes. An interesting two-hour paddle starts at the boat launch at LAKE ISABELLA. At the far end of the lake, enter MILL CREEK through a patch of water lily pads. Glide through the willows for half a mile before the stream begins to drop and becomes too shallow to navigate.
Paddling Resources Hood Canal Kayaks
(360) 559-4270 | hoodcanalkayakrentals.com 4790 Northeast North Shore Rd, Belfair Pickup/drop off service fee depends on location. Multi-day discounts.
SummerTide Resort & Marina
(360) 275-9313 | summertideresort.com 15781 NE Northshore Rd, Tahuya Boat and kayak rentals as well as a boat launch. .
Hood Canal Events
(360) 710-7452 | hoodcanalevents.com Union| Designs experience packages for small and large groups including kayaks and catering.
Hoodsport Kayak Rentals
24380 N US Hwy 101 | (360) 970-0213 Hoodsport downtown location with recreational kayaks and pedal boats; organized excursions and drop off available at Lake Kokanee.
