Fall Fjord 2025

Care for Our Patients and Community Since 1968

Aditya Mehta, MD, Eye Care; Board of Hospital District Commissioners Darrin Moody; Don Welander and Lori Brady; Jewel Park, MD, Pediatrics; Rodney Badger, MD, Cardiology

Fall for the Fjord

As the air turns crisp and the trees trade their greens for gold, I’m reminded of how deeply this place and its people are intertwined.

This summer, as the Bear Gulch Fire burned in the Olympics, our community once again showed what it’s made of — grit, generosity, and a deep respect for the land we call home. From volunteers who made thank you signs and served meals to exhausted firefighters, to neighbors sharing updates and encouragement, it was a powerful reminder that we are strongest together.

I am so grateful for the voices that help tell the story of this special corner of the world in Tracing the Fjord. This issue features two meaningful contributions: guidebook author and long-time friend of the magazine, Craig Romano, takes us on a journey to Spider Lake; and underwater photographer and writer Thom Robbins, invites us to peer beneath the surface of Hood Canal for a fascinating, intimate look at the crabs who scuttle and thrive in its hidden world.

Thanks also to author Lisa Nichol who provided an endearing look into the Olympia harbor icon, Sand Man. Maybe her book will inspire a new vision to restore this historic tug to its former glory.

Fall is a season of transition — shorter days, cozier evenings, and a rhythm that feels both slower and more purposeful. It’s also one of the most exciting times to be here on the fjord, with OysterFest just around the corner! This year marks the 44th year of the West Coast Oyster Shucking Championship and Washington State Seafood Festival. It remains our region’s largest celebration of seafood and community.

As we move into this new season, I want to take a moment to thank you — readers, advertisers, and supporters — for standing behind Tracing the Fjord for eight years. Your enthusiasm, stories, and trust keep this magazine thriving. Here’s to a bright autumn filled with good company, good food, and the wild beauty of Hood Canal.

ISSUE 35 | YEAR 8

EVENTS 4

SPIDER LAKE HIKE 16

Family friendly, year round, no fees

SAND MAN 16

The little tug that did.

QUILCENE 21

Pearl of the Olympic Peninsula

QUILCENE FAIR + PARADE 22

MEET SOME LOCAL CRAB CHARACTERS 26

BEST FRIEND FRIDAYS SHOP SHELTON 39

STANDING TALL 42

The story behind two local lumberjacks – Paul & Babe

SPOOKTACULAR 61

OCTOBER 31, SHELTON

THE FJORD IS PRODUCED BY RACHEL HANSEN IMAGE IN ACTION DESIGN rachel@nwevent.org

(360) 427-5599 PO BOX 622, SHELTON, WA 98584 © 2025 No reprint without permission

WHAT'S HAPPENING?

ONGOING EVENTS

Shelton School Board Meeting

2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 6 PM Mt. View Elementary School

Hood Canal Kiwanis Sewing Club

Tuesdays, 2 - 4 PM, St Germains 600 Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport

Builder Tuesdays

Tuesdays, 10 - 2 PM, Shelton Library

Cribbage at Bent Bine Brew

Tuesdays, Sign-up begins at 5 PM tournaments at 6 PM with cash prizes. 23297 HWY 3, Belfair

Open Mic Night at El Serape Cantina

First Tuesday of each month 318 W Railroad Ave, Shelton

Bookmobile in Brinnon & Quilcene

Tuesdays, 10–12 PM Brinnon Comm Center Tuesdays,1:30 – 4 PM Quilcene Comm.

Trivia Night at Alderbrook Resort

Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8 PM, Union

Open Mic night at Hood Canalé Wednesdays, 6871 E SR 106, Union

Darts at Bent Bine Brew

Wednesdays, 5:45 PM registration with cash prizes. 23297 HWY 3, Belfair

Open Mic at Bent Bine Brew Thursdays, 5 PM , 23297 HWY 3, Belfair

Sheriff Lunch at Fjord Oyster Bank

1st Friday of the month, 11:30 AM 24341 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport

Fiber Art Fridays at Marmo Caffè

Every first and third Friday, 3-6 PM 217 W Cota St, Shelton

Bring a fiber art project to work on (FREE).

Shelton Family YMCA FREE Teen Night

Fridays, 5 PM - 8 PM 3101 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton

Trivia Night at Bent Bine Brew Co. Fridays, 7 PM, FREE 23297 HWY 3, Belfair

North Mason Eagles Karaoke Fridays, 7 PM, 80 NE Alder Creek Ln, Belfair

Shelton Film Society

Second Friday, 5:30-7:30 PM Movie screenings at Marmo's Shelton (FREE).

Saturday Night Bingo in Brinnon Saturdays, 6:45 PM, 151 Corey Street, Brinnon

Bookmobile in Brinnon & Quilcene Saturdays, 10 – 12 PM Brinnon Comm Center Saturdays, 1:30 – 4 PM Quilcene Comm Center

Bingo at Brinnon Booster Club

Bingo Saturday night at 6:45pm 151 Corey Street. Brinnon

Halloween Spooktacular 2025

Thursday, October 31, 4–6 PM

Railroad Ave, Shelton (5th - 1st St)

A wickedly fun evening of trick-or-treating with local businesses and organizations! Bring the whole family downtown for a safe, festive evening full of treats, community spirit, and Halloween fun.

Craft Club at Marmo Caffè & Gallery

Every 2nd and 4th Sunday, 11 - 2 PM

217 W Cota St, Shelton

Live Music at Bent Bine Brew Co. Saturdays, 5PM, 23297 HWY 3, Belfair

Sewing Classes at Annie's anniesquiltshoppe.com

Mason County WSU Master Gardeners

Catalyst Park Garden Workshops

2nd Saturdays, 10 AM-12 PM 799 W Harvard Ave, Shelton Register: 2025cgworkshops.cheddarup.com

Seed Saving 9/13

Bulb Lasagna 10/11

Native Plant Propagation 11/8

Full Moon Yoga Classes Presented by Joonbug Yoga at Alderbrook Resort

10 E. Alderbrook Dr. Union

HARVEST MOON

September 7, 7– 8:30 PM (waterfront)

HUNTERS MOON

October 6, 7 – 8:30 PM (indoors)

BEAVER MOON

November 5, 7 – 8:30 PM (indoors)

COLD MOON

December 4, 7– 8:30 PM (indoors)

$25/person, email joonbugyoga@gmail.com to reserve space and pay at the class. Pre-register at joonbugyoga.com.

SEPTEMBER

The Lady Drinks Whiskey Live

Friday, September 5, 7PM

Lake Nahwatzel Resort, Shelton Americana and roots music by The Lady Drinks Whiskey. All ages, free

Becky Robinson – Comedy at Little Creek Casino Resort

Friday, September 5, 8 PM

Little Creek Casino Resort, Shelton Viral comedy star Becky Robinson brings her hilarious characters and stand-up to the stage. 21+ only.

Sund Rock At Night

Friday, September 5, 8 PM

Sund Marine Preserve, Hoodsport Exclusive night dive at Sund Rock.

Lake Cushman Firewise Council Disaster Preparedness Day Event

Saturday, September 6, 12-4 PM

600 N. Lake Cushman, Hoodsport Are You Prepared for a Disaster. Come to Disaster Preparedness Day, September 6, 2025 Noon to 4. Learn to prepare an initial response, as well as any ongoing long term after effects. Speakers, demonstrations, and giveaways.

Humane Society Golf Tournament Fundraiser

Saturday, September 6, 9 AM LakeLand Village Course, Allyn; includes prizes, lunch, and swag

Dahlia Days

September 6-7, 10-4 PM 1880 SE Lynch Rd., Shelton Shop local vendors and food trucks, capture photos of favorite blooms, pick fresh dahlias, or take home a bouquet!

Rain Or Shine Show & Shine

Sunday, September 7, 10 –3 PM W 180 Hulbert Road, Shelton, WA

Car show benefiting veterans. Enjoy cars, tacos, raffles, and more.

From Soil to Shore | An Evening with Ed Hume

Tuesday, September 9, 6-8 PM

Waterfront dinner with Pacific Northwest gardener, Ed Hume.

Enjoy a multi-course meal crafted with ingredients from our chef’s garden as Ed shares his horticultural wisdom and stories. With stunning views, delicious dishes, and engaging conversation. Space limited. alderbrookresort.com

Welcome Back from Summer: Speaker’s Series: Featuring Steven Duenkel - County Auditor

Tuesday, September 9, 6 -7:30 PM

Union Fire Hall, 50 E Seattle, Union

Discussion on implementation of voter verification process. Also hear from Abe Gardner,emergency prevention specialist, CPC - North Mason Regional Fire Authority about the mobile Integrated health program. Free, all welcome.

FREE Line Dancing Lessons

Wednesday, September 10, 6 PM

High Steel Beer Co., Shelton Fun for all ages, no experience necessary.

Open Mic @ Bent Bine

Thursday, September 11, 6 PM

Bent Bine Brew Co., Belfair, WA

Join Jerry Hutchins for a lively open mic night featuring local musicians and performers.

Best Friends Fridays

Friday, September 12, 4:30-7 PM

Downtown Shelton

Shelton’s antique, vintage and specialty shops invite you for extended shopping hours with snacks, savings and prizes! Second Friday of each month through December.

Karaoke at Potlatch Brewing

Friday, September 12, 7:00 PM

Potlatch Brewing, Hoodsport, WA

Friday night karaoke—bring your friends and your favorite songs.

Kitten Rescue Garage Sale

Saturday, September 13, 8-5

420 SE State Route 3, Shelton

Pet supplies. Candles, knickknacks, and vases. Health and beauty. Office Supplies. Puzzles and Books. Chrystal and china. Craft supplies including Christmas merchandise to get a jump on it.

Dogger Live Music

Sunday, September 14, 6 PM

Lake Nahwatzel Resort, Shelton Montesano’s own Dogger performs country, classic rock, and more.

Comedy Open Mic @ La Cantina

Tuesday, September 16, 7 PM

El Sarape Cantina, Shelton, WA

Try stand-up comedy or share a funny story. Sign-ups at 6 PM, show at 7 PM.

Union City Market Canal Cookout Harvest Celebration

Wednesday, Sept 17, 6-8 PM 5101 Washington 106, Union Reserve at (360) 898-3500 or visit alderbrookresort.com for tickets.

Open Mic @ Bent Bine

Thursday, September 18, 6 PM

Bent Bine Brew Co., Belfair

Open mic hosted by Jerry Hutchins with a relaxed, supportive atmosphere.

Bingo Night @ Potlatch Brewing

Thursday, September 18, 6 PM

Potlatch Brewing Co., Hoodsport Free bingo with prizes for winners

2025 Quilcene Fair and Parade

Saturday, September 20

294715 Hwy 101, Quilcene quilcenefair.org

Uncle Kracker Live at Little Creek Casino Resort!

Saturday, September 20, 8 PM

91 W State Route 108, Shelton

His 2012 album Midnight Special cemented his country-rock style, and his shows are known for energy, authenticity, and sing-along moments.

Oktober Fest at Hood Canalé

September 20-21, 3-9 PM

Hood Canalé, Union

Great bands, bratwurst pizza, pork knuckle, German Pretzels, potato salad, and sauerkraut. Admission $20 includes souvenir glass and first drink!

Quilcene Oyster Races

Sunday, September 21, 8 AM - 1 PM

151 E Columbia St, Quilcene

Run or walk the Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K races. All race proceeds benefit Dollars for Scholars and Count Me In For Quilcene. Events are USATF Certified and Sanctioned. The races begin and end at Worthington Park. Great scenery, awesome volunteers, and support for good causes make this a ‘can't-miss’ event! Commemorative finisher medal, local oysters after the race, local craft beer after the race (21+). Sign up at QuilRaces.com

Line Dancing Lessons at High Steel

Wednesday, September 24, 6 PM

High Steel Beer Co., Shelton

Learn in a welcoming environment.

Mason PUD 3 Our Power is Water

Early Detection and Rapid Response Training for Noxious Weed Control

Thursday, September 25

Long Lake Community Building

5100 Long Lake Road SE, Port Orchard, WA

Mason County Noxious Weed Control Board is hosting an Early Detection and Rapid Response Training with Kitsap County Noxious Weed Control Board and PNW Invasive Plant Council. We will learn about invasive plant identification, how to report weeds, and complete a group weed walk. WSDA pesticide license recertification credits will be available for participants. Contact Mason County Noxious Weeds for More Information.Phone: (360) 427-9670 ext. 592 / Belfair - (360) 275-4467 ext. 592. Email: weeds@masoncountywa.gov

2nd Annual Centennial Guild Golf Tournament

Friday, September 26, 9 AM

Salish Cliffs Golf Club, Shelton Golf fundraiser for Centennial Guild with friendly competition and community spirit.

Monthly Artist Exchange

Friday, September 26, 6 PM

Marmo, Shelton, WA

Creative networking event for artists, musicians, and makers—free and open to all ages.

The Lady Drinks Whiskey @ Alderbrook Golf Club

Friday, September 26, 6 PM

Alderbrook Golf Club, Union, WA

Live Americana and roots music by The Lady Drinks Whiskey. All ages, no cover.

Trivia Night @ Potlatch Brewing

Friday, September 26, 6 PM

Potlatch Brewing Co., Hoodsport

Monthly trivia night with gift card prizes.

Family Trivia Night at High Steel

Friday, September 26, 6 PM

High Steel Beer Co., Shelton, WA

Family-friendly trivia hosted by Timberland Regional Library.

4th Annual Cornhole Tournament

Saturday, September 27, 11AM

Twin Lakes Youth Camp, Shelton Cornhole tournament fundraiser with registration at 9 AM, games at 11.

“Let Us Be Your Guides”

The Munn Bro's specialize in waterfront homes and acreage in the N.W. Hood Canal which includes Lake Leland, Dabob Bay, Quilcene and Brinnon areas. Enjoy the extended spring and autumn seasons of the Hood Canal. Munn Bro’s agents are thankful for the wonderful people in this pristine area that make it a unique place to live. Experience outdoor activities, wild crafting mushrooms, wildlife, locally grown food, and an abundance of fresh seafood.

Owner/Broker

Select the most knowledgeable and experienced agents to guide you in the purchase or sale of your property. The Munn Bro’s team truly know the Homes and Land of West Hood Canal. Stop by our new office at 294772 Hwy.101 in Quilcene for maps, tide books and local insight of this beautiful area.

Members of the NWMLS, and the Jefferson County Association of Realtors ~Notary services available~

Jim Munn

Bruce Munn Kalan Hatton

JOIN BURGER BASKET

Peace, Love, & Housing for All

Saturday, September 27, 4-7 PM

Medicine Creek Winery

947 Old Pacific Hwy SE, Olympia

New Horizon Communities celebrates community at 70’s themed fundraiser party. Proceeds go towards providing permanent supportive housing and services to previously homeless residents living at our villages in Olympia, Orting, and Shelton. Live music with Tuff Puffin. Cost: $75 (includes appetizers, drink, dinner & dancing) Contact: Tamra, 253-327-0158 or nhcommunities.org

OCTOBER

The Lady Drinks Whiskey

Friday, October 3, 7PM

Lake Nahwatzel Resort, Shelton

Live Americana music. All ages, no cover

OYSTERFEST 2025:

Washington State Seafood Festival October 3 -5 | oysterfest.org

21 West Sanderson Way, Shelton

Hosted by the Skookum Rotary Club, this event includes activities, marine exhibits, live music, entertainment, WA State wines and foods provided by local non-profits and volunteers.

Shuck & Share 5K + 1 Run

Sunday, October 5, 8 AM

Huff N Puff Trail, Shelton

Family-friendly run supporting Project Share’s utility assistance program. Includes swag bags and a bonus mile around Island Lake.

Annual Cook Off

Tuesday, October 7, 6:00-7:30 PM

Fire Hall, 50 E Seattle St, Union

The Hood Canal Improvement Club is proud to host the annual cook off. Cost is $5 to attend and free to participants. hoodcanalimprovementclub.org

Open Mic w/ Kyle Thompson

Tuesday, October 7, 7 PM

El Sarape Cantina, Shelton, WA

Open mic hosted by Kyle Thompson—showcase your musical talent.

Best Friends Fridays: Spooky Season

Friday, October 10, 4:30-7 PM

Downtown Shelton

Shelton’s antique, vintage and specialty shops invite you for extended shopping hours with specials, snacks, savings and prizes!

4th Annual Quilcene Fiber Festival

Saturday, October 11, 10- 4PM

151 E Columbia St, Quilcene

The Quilcene Historical Museum invites you to our annual fiber festival - celebrating the diverse talents in our region. Events include animals, vendors, activities, demonstrations, live music, and interesting history.

Darkwood Nights LARP in Brinnon

Friday–Sunday, October 17–19, 2025

Immerse yourself in a 10th-century live action role-play adventure filled with costumes, legends, and lore in a forest setting.

Comedy Open Mic

Tuesday, October 21, 7 PM

El Sarape Cantina, Shelton, WA

Test your comedic chops or share your best stories. Sign-ups at 6 PM, show at 7 PM.

Shore Dive at the Port of Hoodsport

Saturday, October 25, 8 AM–4 PM

Port of Hoodsport, Hoodsport, WA

Shore diving with Oregon Scuba Club—two dives planned, easy entry, tank fills nearby. Optional pumpkin carving dive.

Ghouls Day Out

Saturday, October 25, 12 –5 PM

Mason Transit-Community Center, Shelton Indoor market with vendors, food, and festive fun. Costumes welcome.

Sund Rock Shore Dive

Sunday, October 26, 8 AM–2 PM

Sund Rock Marine Preserve, Hoodsport Day of diving at Sund Rock with gear setup stations, rinse areas, and underwater views.

Family Trivia Night at High Steel

Friday, October 31, 6 PM

High Steel Beer Co., Shelton

Family-friendly trivia hosted by Timberland Regional Library.

Halloween Spooktacular 2025

Thursday, October 31, 4–6 PM

Railroad Ave, Shelton (1st - 5th Streets)

Shelton Downtown Merchants teams up with the Shelton-Mason County Chamber to bring you a wickedly fun evening of trick-or-treating with local businesses and organizations! Bring the whole family downtown for a safe, festive evening full of treats, community spirit, and Halloween fun. 7:00 PM Movie at Shelton Cinemas, Corpse Bride, free with food donation.

NOVEMBER

Open Mic w/ Kyle Thompson

Tuesday, November 4, 7 PM

El Sarape Cantina, Shelton

Showcase your musical talent or enjoy local performers in this weekly open mic night.

HCIC Annual General Meeting

Tuesday, November 4, 6-7:30 PM

Union Fire Hall,50 E Seattle St, Union Members and Non-Members welcome

Annual Christmas Bazaar

Saturday November 8, 10 -4 PM

600 N. Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport Hoodsport's Annual Christmas Bazaar featuring amazing local authors, crafters, and handmade gifts, The Scone Guy, fresh baked cookies, Santa Paws, Fattie Daddies Pizza, and so much more! Support our talented local authors, artists, and crafters and have fun!

Best Friends Fridays: Thankful for you!

Friday, November 14, 4:30-7 PM

Downtown Shelton

Shelton’s antique, vintage and specialty shops invite you for extended shopping hours with specials, snacks, savings and prizes! Second Friday of each month through December.

Comedy Open Mic

Tuesday, November 18, 7 PM

El Sarape Cantina, Shelton, WA

Stand-up comedy and storytelling in a supportive, fun atmosphere.

Monthly Artist Exchange

Friday, November 28, 6 PM

Marmo, Shelton, WA

Networking and idea sharing for artists, crafters, musicians, and makers. All ages welcome.

Family Trivia Night @ High Steel Beer!

Friday, November 28, 6 PM

High Steel Beer Co., Shelton

Family-friendly trivia event hosted by Timberland Regional Library.

kid-friendly, dog-friendly accessible year-round,

Passes:None

old-growth, bird-watching

CRAIG ROMANO | STORY & PICTURES

Spider Lake

Surrounded by towering ancient conifers and fed by cascading creeks, SpiderLake is tranquil. It is the perfect year-round hike for the whole family welcoming dogs and requires no passes.

With a name that may instill a chill if you’re prone to arachnophobia, fear not a visit to Spider Lake. The small lake on the South Fork Skokomish River—Satsop River divide is actually an inviting place. Surrounded by towering ancient conifers and fed by cascading creeks, Spider Lake is quite tranquil. Children will love hiking along its shores looking for birds, fish, amphibians and other critters. They’ll also appreciate the well-built bridges spanning the lake’s inlet and outlet streams. And the trail with its gentle course around the lake is ideal for hikers of all ages and abilities.

Hit the Trail

Hikers of a certain age may start humming the Jim Stafford classic Spiders and Snakes upon beginning their jaunt to this lake. And if you’re in agreement to the chorus of “I don’t like spiders and snakes…” take solace. There are only three species of snakes that call the Olympic Peninsula home, and none of them are venomous. However there are more than 900 species of spiders that reside on the peninsula! Yet, the majority of them you’ll never encounter. And the common ones, crab spiders, jumping spiders, and orbweavers are nothing to be afraid of. You’re more likely to run into their webs (especially if you’re the first one on the trail that day) than into them. Voracious eaters of insects, spiders help keep the population of those hiking nuisances down.

So is there an abundance of spiders at Spider Lake? No—no more than pretty much anywhere else in the Olympics. So what’s with the name? No one’s quite sure, as any record to how this lake got its name can’t be easily found. Spider Meadow in the Cascades Mountains is named after a mine, so that’s a possibility. Spyder Lake in Quebec and Spider Lake in Minnesota are named

for their shapes resembling the arachnid. Is this lake shaped like a spider? No, it’s shaped more like a flatworm. Perhaps an early explorer simply named the lake after the arachnid because he had a spider encounter there—who knows?

In any case Spider Lake isn’t grand in any sense, this hike’s main draw is its trees. The lake is surrounded by gorgeous ancient forest—a tiny fragment of the grand forest that once shrouded the hills and ridges along this entire divide. The trail too is a fragment— once a much longer route connecting the South Fork Skokomish River Valley to the Satsop River Valley. Decades of intensive logging in this corner of Olympic National Forest not only obliterated the area’s primeval forest but also much of its extensive trail system.

With the cut now a fraction of what it once was and with trail usage at record numbers, it would be a great time to bring folks together to start rebuilding trails in the southern Olympic flank.

Spider Lake

DISTANCE: 2.0 miles roundtrip

ELEVATION GAIN: 200 feet

HIGH POINT: 1400 feet

DIFFICULTY: easy

PASSES:none

SNOW FREE: Year round

NOTES: Forest road to trailhead can be bumpy requiring high clearance

TRAILHEAD PASS NEEDED: None

GPS WAYPOINTS: Trailhead: N47 24.881, W123 25.715

FEATURES: old-growth, bird-watching, kid-friendly, dog-friendly, accessible throughout year

LAND AGENCY CONTACT: Olympic National Forest, Hood Canal Ranger District, Quilcene GUIDEBOOK: Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula 2nd edition (Romano, Mountaineers Books)

TRAILHEAD DIRECTIONS: From Shelton, travel north on US Highway 101 for 7 miles, turning left at milepost 340 onto the Skokomish Valley Road. Follow it for 5.6 miles, bearing right at a V intersection onto Forest Road 23. Continue for 9.3 miles and bear left at a Y junction with FR 2353. Continue on FR 23, following this gravel road for 7 miles to the unassuming trailhead on the left. Parking is on the right.

TRAILHEAD FACILITIES: none

In the mid-1990s, trail builders resurrected a portion of the old trail that once traveled up the Cedar Creek valley and constructed adjoining new tread to build a two-mile loop around little Spider Lake. Trail-building aficionados will probably find the loop’s three large bridges noteworthy for their durability and aesthetics. Kids will love crossing them—probably doing a few repeats on the spans.

This trail is a joy to hike anytime of the year, but it glows pearly white in early summer when blossoming dwarf dogwood and queen’s cup blanket the forest floor. A few shrubs and sedges will add some golden touches in autumn. From the trail’s unassuming trailhead (there’s another unassuming trailhead to the south) immediately enter cool old-growth forest and come to a junction. Turn right (although either direction will work), crossing the outlet stream and soon reaching Spider’s western shoreline. Now saunter past towering trees, good fishing spots, and excellent viewpoints of the placid lake. Look for avian and amphibious residents. Cast your glances upward at the surrounding ridges. These intensively logged hillsides offer quite a contrast to the virgin groves cradling the lake.

After about a mile, cross a small creek and reach a junction. The trail heading right steeply climbs a short distance to an alternative trailhead. Continue left climbing a little above the green waters of the lake while being shaded by ancient behemoths. Now continue along the eastern shoreline climbing a bit more to traverse a steep slope.

After crossing a high log bridge, the trail begins its descent back to lake level. It then crosses an inlet stream in a marshy area before returning to the junction where you started your trip around the lake.

The hike is short, but the surroundings beckon you to slow down and enjoy the natural beauty of this small lake and its big trees. Perhaps you’ll be fortunate to see some wildlife along the way—and more than likely you probably won’t even recall if you encountered a spider

Craig Romano is an award-winning guidebook author whose deep connection to Washington trails, dedication to accuracy, and passion for conservation have made him a trusted name in the outdoor community. His contributions to Tracing the Fjord magazine bring rich, informed outdoor narratives to a readership that lives and loves the Hood Canal region. Craig's guidebooks stand out for their thorough research. He physically scouts trails, GPS-tracks routes, and includes lesser-known—and at-risk—options to offer diverse, accurate, and reliable resources for hikers. He incorporates sidebars with natural or cultural history and conservation insights in his writing. He emphasizes responsible use and stewardship of trails, challenging readers to be “good conservation and trail stewards.” Craig has written more than 25 guidebooks, including celebrated “Day Hiking” and “Urban Trails” series published by Mountaineers Books—featuring areas like the Olympic Peninsula, Vancouver BC, and beyond.

A YEAR THAT LASTS A LIFETIME open your home

The first time you meet them isn’t at your front door. It’s at the airport. You’re standing in the hum of arrivals, clutching a coffee that’s already lukewarm, eyes sifting through a tide of faces. There they are: teenagers, shoulders squared under the weight of a backpack—and the heavier burden of leaving everything familiar behind. Their smile flickers—half nervous, half brave—as they scan the crowd until it lands on you. And in that instant, something shifts. A stranger steps into your story.

The car ride home is a mix of small words and silences that don’t feel empty, only waiting to be filled. In the back seat, Mabel and Gertie, our two English Bulldogs, are beside themselves with curiosity. They snuffle and grunt, wedging their heads against the new passenger as if to say, “We know you already.” It still amazes me how quickly the dogs decide. For them, family is a scent, a rhythm, a certainty.

That first week, life feels like a jumble of snapshots: suitcases half-unpacked in the hallway, a hesitant laugh at dinner when someone trips over a new word, late-night video calls whispered in another language. Each student brings their own rhythm, and the house adjusts like a guitar string, finding the

Our first student, from Switzerland, studied the jar of peanut butter on the counter as if it were a museum exhibit. “You eat this every day?” he asked, eyebrows arched in disbelief. Weeks later, we caught him in the kitchen at midnight, spoon in hand, devouring it straight from the jar, guilty grin wide as the dogs circled at his feet, hoping for a taste. Another, from Chile, woke us up one winter morning with a shout. Snow had blanketed the street overnight. He bolted out the front door in pajamas, spinning barefoot, shrieking with joy while Mabel and Gertie barreled around, barking at flakes they could never catch.

Each student folded into our routines in their own way. One from Italy stayed up late, quietly strumming a guitar in his room.

Another, from Brazil, coaxed everyone—neighbors, friends, us—into the yard to kick a soccer ball until darkness swallowed the field and the dogs collapsed panting in the grass. They each added something to the family, something small but lasting, like a new thread in a blanket you didn’t know was fraying.

High school is its own crucible. Our students step into a world of lockers, pep rallies, and cafeteria cliques that all kids find overwhelming. But they dive in. They go to dances without knowing the songs, try sports they’ve never played, and volunteer for clubs whose rules they barely grasp.

At first, they call home every night. Then less often. And one day, you realize they aren’t just surviving—they’re thriving. They come home exhausted and happy, full of stories about friends whose names you learn to recognize. They leave muddy cleats by the door, scatter notebooks across the kitchen table, and raid the fridge at odd hours. Accent softens, confidence grows, and one day you realize: they’re no longer “the exchange student.” They’re your kid.

The year passes faster than you think it can. Goodbyes come at the same airport where it all began. This time the teenager who once walked toward you with wide eyes is taller in spirit and older in ways no passport photo could show. You hug them tighter than you thought you would, the dogs whine at your feet as if they understand. They disappear through security, a piece of your family carried away on a plane.

And yet, it doesn’t end there. The thread holds. A message pings months later: a picture of them with friends back home, grinning wide. A wedding invitation arrives in the mail. One of our students returned after college, and when they stepped through the door, Mabel and Gertie launched at them as if no time had passed at all. The change isn’t just theirs. It’s ours. Our world feels larger now, stretched across time zones and languages.

Dinner table conversations drift toward places we’ve never seen, dishes we’ve never tasted, families we’ve never met, yet somehow belong to us all the same.

Hosting a student doesn’t just add someone to your home for a year

—it rearranges the borders of what “home” means.

The ripple spreads wider still. Classmates and neighbors meet someone from across the world, someone who shares their culture with laughter and stories, who dismantles stereotypes without even trying. Teachers tell us later how much the presence of an exchange student reshaped their classrooms, how it sparked curiosity in kids who might never have looked beyond the county line. When our students return home, they take us with them. They carry the cadence of our small town, the warmth of our dinners, the loyalty of two stubborn bulldogs. They carry the best of us, and they give back a piece of themselves in return.

The truth is simple, though it never feels small: every time you welcome a student, a thread is tied across oceans. Not through headlines or treaties, but through the ordinary—the scraping of chairs at dinner, the barking of dogs at the door, the hesitant laughter that turns into ease. These bonds outlast the school year.

DESIGN MATTERS

They outlast the flight home. They weave something quieter, sturdier, and

local high school, make lifelong friends, and—before long—become part of the family. Hosting isn’t about having the perfect house or schedule. It’s about offering a seat at your table, a place to belong, and the chance to build connections that last long after the suitcase is packed. One student at a time, these exchanges tie threads across oceans and remind us how small—and how connected—the world can be. Learn more: afsusa.org.

LISA NICKEL

Preserving a maritime legacy tugboat sand man

For over a century, the Olympia harbor tugboat Sand Man has worked on Puget Sound waters. Built in Tacoma in 1910, Sand Man towed sand, gravel, oysters, logs, and more to and from Budd Inlet, Shelton, and destinations all over south Puget Sound. Over the years, it's participated in many Olympia Harbor Days activities including tugboat races and was the festival’s first logo boat in 1983. In short, Sand Man is known as “Olympia’s Tugboat," and despite it's maritime icon status is in peril of fading into the history books. This is the story of Sand Man, the little tug that could and did.

The following is adapted from an excerpt from Tugboat Sand Man, by Lisa Nickel

Sand Man was owned by three commercial companies and one private owner, Franz Schlottmann, a WWII veteran turned business owner who grew up on Budd Inlet.

Although he never learned to swim, he spent most of his life on the water. Like many locals, he recognized the Sand Man both by the sound of its engine and distinct hull. On walks with his sister, Ruth, they’d watch the boats work Olympia harbor, and seeing his interest,

she would tease him that someday he might own Sand Man. He promised her if he ever got the chance he’d buy the tug.

A WWII draft notice took him away from the Northwest to Australia and New Guinea. Here he learned

Sand Man is Born. With an overall length of 59'10", a width of 14.5', an underwater depth of 6.5', and weighing 28 tons, Sand Man was a standout work boat. This 1917 photo shows Sand Man’s originally shorter aft cabin designed for the smaller-sized engine and more back deck area for crew. (Photo courtesy Lisa Wendt.)

1910. The mosquito fleet steam tug Mizpah, behind newly built Sand Man, shuttled passengers, and supplies all over south Puget Sound. Sand Man worked and moored in Olympia’s Budd Inlet for over 100 years in virtually the same spot. Sand Man is moored here at what is now the dock next to Olympia Oyster House Restaurant. (Photo courtesy Sand Man Foundation.)

An Olympia resident built a concrete houseboat on the shore of his beach and wanted it launched during the 1981 winter king tides. Sand Man and Alice, with tow ropes attached, pulled the houseboat down the beach into the water. On their way to West Bay Marina, the house began to break apart. Beaching what remained in front of Schlottmann’s home, the houseboat continued to break up and eventually be destroyed by tides and waves. (Photo: Lisa Wendt.)

valuable skippering skills as he was put in charge of army tugs. His tasks included navigation, towing, maintenance, and training the crewmen.

After the war he returned to his hometown and his girlfriend, Jean, and his former job driving heavy equipment. Jean and Franz married in 1949 and two years later started Schlottmann Construction. With Franz's vast skills at running equipment he became Schlottmann Excavating, and when he purchased Sand Man in 1964, Schlottmann Excavating and Towing Company.

Franz was a successful entrepreneur and generous and passionate about helping others. He donated untold hours giving tugboat rides on Sand Man and was quick to assist anyone in distress. He was known for his quiet, hardworking, generous outlook on life and his dedication to the community as well as the little tug he loved. He owned his towing business, with both trucks and tugs, for twenty-four years.

In 1997, the Sand Man Foundation formed and took ownership, and placed Sand Man on multiple historic registries. However, on it's last haulout, it was discovered that the vessel

Left to right are daughter Lisa Schlottmann Wendt, neighbor Rob Dunn, wife Jean Schlottmann, and Franz in the pilothouse. (Photo courtesy Lisa Wendt.)

was in worse condition than anticipated. The cost of maintaining a historic wooden boat is immense, but two years out of water while they determined next steps to fund repairs, caused even more structural degradation—dried-out planks and hull shrinkage—posing a tipping hazard and significant safety risk.

Unable to procure funding for repairs and storage, The Sandman Foundation fell behind on payments, accruing nearly $29k in unpaid charges. In July of 2025 the tug was put on public auction with a starting bid of just $10K. Receiving no viable bids, the Port of Olympia assumed ownership of Sand Man and today the fate of the little historic tug is uncertain. Conversations with the City of Olympia’s Historic Preservation Office and Heritage Commission have taken place and the Port will continue to explore options. This is a unique opportunity for an individual, group, or organization to step in, take ownership, and lead the effort to preserve this treasured piece of local history. If you or someone you know is interested—or if you have suggestions, ideas, or resources that could help— consider preserving this legacy.

No matter what the future holds for this iconic Olympia tugboat, the legacy will continue in Lisa Nickel's "Tugboat Sand Man," published by Arcadia Publishing. The book includes 198 original photos with never before published stories documenting the essence of Sand Man through the ages for all to enjoy.

Author, Lisa Nickel, grew up boating on Puget Sound in her family’s own tugboat. She holds a master’s degree in creative arts and learning. After retiring from a 30year teaching career, she is now the author of over a dozen magazine articles. In 2022 she received the Algona Great Blue Heron Award for community service. Purchase Tugboat Sand Man at Canalside Gifts in Hoodsport or at arcadiapublishing.com

HAMA HAMA OYSTER FARM

QUIlCENE PEARL OF THE PENINSULA

Tucked between mile markers 294 and 295 along US Highway 101, the little village of Quilcene is easy to miss — but you shouldn’t. This charming town, pronounced “kwil-seen,” is a hidden gem on the Olympic Peninsula, offering an unexpectedly rich mix of culture, recreation, and small-town hospitality.

Set on the delta where the Big and Little Quilcene Rivers meet Quilcene Bay, with the Olympic Mountains rising just to the west, Quilcene is a destination that feels both peaceful and alive. Once home to the Kwilseeds, a group of Twana Indians, this scenic valley still celebrates its history and connection to the land.

For a town its size, Quilcene boasts a thriving arts scene. Seven Monkeys Gallery is a local favorite, showcasing fine art, custom furniture, and exotic woods — with rotating exhibits and visiting artists throughout the year. The working Quilcene Gallery invites visitors to meet artists in their studios, while the Gray Coast Guild Hall — set in a restored 1950s movie theater — is home to music, poetry, and theater events year-round. Summer brings Concerts in the Barn, an intimate series featuring world-class musicians performing against a pastoral backdrop, and the Quilcene Lantern barn venue hosts live music on 53 acres

of forest and farmland, plus the lively Tarboo Music Festival every Fourth of July weekend. MoonFest, another local favorite, combines music, food, vendors, and fun for a true Peninsula celebration.

Quilcene’s downtown is anchored by a striking 1930s Chevron station, beautifully restored to house three unique businesses. Olympic Mountain Mercantile highlights local artists, crafts, vintage clothing, and furniture made from local woods. Next door, you can browse antiques and a remarkable collection of seashells, and Meristern Woodworks showcases handcrafted furniture and carpentry using sustainable wood. Under the station’s iconic canopy, the mercantile displays rustic outdoor furniture — and locals are buzzing about the possibility of food pop-ups soon joining the scene. Worthington Park is another must-visit stop, with its stately mansion, performance stage, and Historical Museum, which chronicles the area’s rich past

— from Kwilseed traditions to logging, farming, and oyster culture. The park is also available for weddings, concerts, exhibits, and even overnight stays in the mansion.

Hungry travelers have no shortage of options. Quilbilly’s serves hearty meals with beer on tap and indoor-outdoor seating, while Gear Head Deli is known for its smoked meats and satisfying sandwiches. Stock up on picnic fixings from Peninsula Foods or The Village Store, then enjoy them at Worthington Park, Q Gardens, or the beach by Herb Beck Marina. For coffee lovers, Catkin Coffee offers small-batch roasted coffee and Wi-Fi, perfect for a cozy break. If you’re on the go, stop by Quil Bean or PNW Press, two drive-thru coffee spots serving up specialty drinks and treats.

Quilcene is paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Its calm, warm saltwater beaches at Linger Longer Park are rare for the region, making them perfect for summer swimming. Kayakers and boaters

will love exploring Quilcene Bay, or you can book a scenic two-hour boat tour with Dabobing Around to take in the bays’ beauty.

Nearby trails lead to lush waterfalls and offer yearround recreation — hiking in the summer, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter. A trip up Walker Mountain rewards you with breathtaking views, from Olympic glaciers to the distant skyline of Bellevue.

The valley’s fertile soil produces an abundance of fresh produce. Midori Farm and Serendipity Farms both operate farmstands along Highway 101, offering

fresh vegetables and flowers. In town, Q Gardens is a community treasure, with meandering paths through organic gardens and a gazebo perfect for a quiet moment surrounded by blooms.

Whether you come for the art, the music, the food, or the trails, Quilcene invites you to slow down and savor the best of the Olympic Peninsula.

For events, maps, and more local insights, visit TheQuilScene.com — then plan your trip to discover this Pearl of the Peninsula for yourself.

it takes a village.

There’s a certain kind of magic that sweeps through Quilcene each September. The air feels crisper, the leaves are just starting to turn, and the whole town seems to buzz with excitement. That can only mean one thing — it’s time for the Quilcene Fair & Parade plus Car Show, happening Saturday, September 20th at Quilcene School –and it takes the whole village to pull this party off!

This free, family-friendly event is part hometown reunion, part small-town carnival, and part rolling car show. The fairgrounds open at 10 AM, filling the air with the smell of kettle corn, grilled burgers, and fresh coffee. Local vendors set up their varied booths, selling handmade crafts, farm goods, and treats, while the car show brings out everything from lovingly restored hot rods to quirky classics.

By 11 AM, all eyes are on Hwy 101, where the parade kicks off in a splash of color, sound, and hometown pride. Kids line the road waving flags, dogs trot alongside their owners, and this

year’s Parade King and Queen — Bruce & Sue Stratton, celebrated volunteers with Quilcene Fire Rescue — wave from their float like royalty. The lineup promises to be a spectacle, with floats from the Port Townsend Rhody Festival and Sequim Irrigation Festival, dancers from Borderline Dance Team, fuzzy Cape George Highland Alpacas, the spirited Olympic Peninsula Shrine Club, and a parade of VWs from the Strait Air Volksgruppe Car Club. And the best part? Anyone can be in the parade! Families, farms, businesses, marching groups — even your pet goats — are welcome.

2025 Quilcene Fair & Parade + Car Show

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 QUILCENE

Registration is free and starts at 9 AM, or you can register ahead of time at quilcenefair.org/parade.

Car lovers won’t want to miss the Car Show, where rows of polished chrome and gleaming paint stretch across the school’s athletic field. Registration opens at 8 AM ($25, cash only), and volunteers will guide drivers in via Rose St and McCardle Rd.

Once the parade ends, the fair really comes alive. Two big carnival tents are packed with kid-favorite games: Plinko, Spin the Wheel, a shooting gallery,

duck pond, sucker pull, and the classic cake walk (bigger than ever this year!). New this year are a dime toss, fishing game, and spin & sand art station where kids can create their own colorful keepsake. If that’s not enough action, the GameTruck mobile video game theater will be parked on site, giving kids (and parents!) a chance to play the latest video games in air-conditioned comfort. And for the brave — or the musically gifted — Rockaraoke is back, letting you sing your heart out with a live band backing you up.

All day long, there will be food and treats (sweet, savory, and everything in between), and community booths to explore. And it’s all for a good cause — proceeds help fund next year’s fair and support local programs like the Weekend Nutrition Program, and Quilcene Masonic Lodge’s Bikes for Books. At 1 PM, the energy shifts to the football field as the Quilcene Rangers take on Neah Bay — a perfect way to end the afternoon with some hometown spirit.

So bring the kids, bring your friends, bring your dog — and spend the day soaking up the sights, sounds, and spirit of Quilcene. This is small-town celebration at its very best.

For the latest updates, follow Quilcene Fair & Parade on Facebook or email quilcenefair@gmail.com. See you at the Fair!

Local farmer markets beyond the summer season

Summer may be coming to a close but the harvest isn't over yet! Some farmers' markets are open through the fall, offering fresh seasonal produce and hand-made products. Often too, there are eating options and great opportunities for specialty themed events and live music.

Olympia Farmers Market

Thursday - Sunday in April - October, 10 AM -3 PM

700 Capitol Way N, Olympia olympiafarmersmarket.com

Shelton Farmers Market

Saturdays, May - October, 10 AM - 3 PM Cota Street , Shelton sheltonfarmersmarket.org

Tumwater Farmers Market

Wednesdays, June - October, 11 AM -2 PM 855 Trosper Rd, SW #108-219 Tumwater, Washington

Port Orchard Farmers Market

Saturdays, April - October, 9 - 2 PM Bay & Harrison, Port Orchard Waterfront

Port Townsend Farmers Market

Wednesdays, June - September, 3-6 PM UPTOWN

Saturdays, April - October, 9 AM - 2 PM

Saturdays, November - Mid -December, 10 AM - 2 PM 650 TYLER STREET, PORT TOWNSEND

Lynch Road's newest attraction brings more than just bees to the area

Just outside Shelton, Loblolly Lavender Farm on Lynch Road, is more than just a place to grow flowers; it's a whole sensory experience. Rows upon rows of purple, pink, and white lavender fill the air with that unmistakable, soothing smell. Owners Keith and Tracy Cook have turned their love for lavender into a thriving destination that draws visitors from across the region in their short time in business.

Keith manages the fields and oversees roughly 2,000 lavender plants in the ground and another 1,000 in pots with about ten different varieties in all. From the deep purple Betty Blues to the soft pinkish-white Melissa, each type has its look, fragrance, and use. The English varieties, Keith explains, are sweeter and better for culinary uses, while others are good for essential oils. The trick to keeping lavender healthy? "Don't over water," Keith told Tracing The Fjord on a tour this summer. "Their feet don't like to stay wet."

Tracy runs the newly built farm shop. Shelves are full of a variety of lavender creations, from soaps and hydrating face serums to infused local honey and a crowd favorite, lavender simple syrup, perfect for coffee, tea, lemonade, or baking. Lavender is both pretty and powerful with its calming qualities. It can help you sleep, soothe your skin, and even add to food and drink. One visitor, Keith recalled, was so relaxed he fell asleep in a chair right in the middle of the field.

The farm's popularity surprised the Cooks, who opened in 2024, and welcomed an estimated thousand visitors in just a few weeks. Their first Lavender Festival brought food trucks and vendors—many selling out completely. This year, their 2-day lavender festival saw 3000 people come through their gates. They also expanded their season with more activities, from wreath-making classes to encouraging guests to pack a picnic and enjoy the view.

Loblolly Lavender Farm isn't alone on Lynch Road. There's also the Lynch Creek Dahlias, Walter Deacon Wines, and Taylor Shellfish Farms. They trade tips, share resources, and help each other bring visitors to the area. It's a cooperative spirit that makes this stretch of road feel like something special.

Make plans for 2026 to visit the Cooks for a festival, the flowers, or the handmade goods. Loblolly Lavender Farm, 2950 SE Lynch Rd, Shelton, WA 98584,

THOM ROBBINS | STORY & PHOTOS

crabby characters StoriesthefromSeafloor

Spend enough time beneath the surface of Hood Canal, and the silence starts to speak not in words, but in motion. Everything down there moves slower in the cold except the crabs. The crabs are always busy. Always urgent. I’ve watched one spend ten full minutes excavating a hole no deeper than a coin is thick, only to abandon it and scuttle off as if remembering something more important. One squared off with its own reflection in my camera dome, claws raised like a boxer waiting for the bell. And another cleaned algae off its shell, as if preparing for a first date.

They aren’t graceful like the kelp fish or hypnotic like moon jellies. They’re roughedged little bulldozers, powered by instinct and old armor, constantly on patrol. You’ll find them under ledges, in discarded cans, perched on the pilings of a long-lost dock. Red Rock crabs, kelp crabs, decorator crabs, hermits dragging their spiral shells like tiny trailers behind them, all of them crawling, shoving, digging, sparring, eating, surviving.

To dive in Hood Canal is to enter their world, not as an observer but as a trespasser in a busy kingdom. And the deeper you go, the more you start to wonder: who’s really watching who? There are over thirty species of crab living in the Salish Sea, and I swear I’ve startled half of them just getting my fins on. Big ones, small ones, legs like knitting needles—some so camouflaged they vanish if you look away.

They're not background players down here. They're the quiet architects of the seafloor. Scavengers, cleaners, prey, and predators, they keep the submerged machine running.

Take the Dungeness crab. Everyone knows that name from a dinner menu, but out here, in the cold green quiet, you see the other side of it. These are not docile creatures. They fight like boxers in the sand, claw-to-claw. I once watched two square off over a fish head, each strike spraying up little clouds of silt. No hesitation, no mercy. The winner dragged the prize beneath a ledge and vanished. The loser waited a few beats, then started digging like it had never happened. Red Rock crabs are the neighborhood bruisers, bad-tempered, road-shouldered, all edge. Their claws are darker than blood, twice as quick. You don’t want to get too close.

Then there are the kelp crabs, graceful, spindly, with legs that seem to unfold forever. They cling to the long, swaying forests of bull kelp like sentries, their shells often coated in fuzz or film. I’ve seen them frozen in place for minutes, like a spider in a web—until they move. And when they do, they move fast.

But my favorite? The decorators. They’re the mad geniuses of the crab world— slow-moving and soft-shelled, but never unprepared. They tear pieces of sponge and algae from their surroundings, stitching them onto their backs like makeshift armor or fancy hats. Sometimes they vanish into the scenery. I found one once with an entire anemone riding on its back, swaying as a crown.

Crabs do more than scuttle around at our feet. They oxygenate sediment, recycle

waste, and form the base of countless food webs. Otters eat them. Octopuses hunt them. Even gulls have learned to flip them over like breakfast pancakes.

Like spiders and shrimp, crabs are arthropods wrapped in an exoskeleton that is both armor and skeleton, with no bones inside and everything important protected on the outside. That shell, or carapace, is tough as old fiberglass, etched like a puzzle box, often scarred from past fights, and it doesn’t grow with them. When they get too big for it, they crack it open like a coffin and climb out soft and defenseless until the new shell hardens. I’ve found husks underwater that look like dead crabs until you realize they’re ghosts on the sand.

Most crabs have ten limbs, eight legs, and two claws, but don’t let the symmetry

fool you. Those claws aren’t there just for show. They’re everything. I’ve watched crabs use them like tools, snapping open clam shells with surgical efficiency. I’ve seen them fight, claws locked like wrestlers on a mat, each trying to twist the other into submission. Sometimes, you’ll notice asymmetry in its claws, with one noticeably larger than the other. This can happen after a molt, when a lost claw is still regrowing, or from years of favoring one claw over the other, like a boxer’s strong hand. That imbalance isn’t clumsy, it’s deliberate. Bigger doesn’t always mean better, but it does mean louder. That oversized claw speaks

before the crab ever moves. When you see that heavy claw raised like a crooked banner, it’s not just a weapon, it’s a story of survival, hard-won and costly.

Crabs fight with whatever they’ve got left, rebuilding one joint, one muscle fiber at a time. There’s an honesty in that brutality.

You never forget the first time you see a crab run. It’s not a graceful thing. Not smooth like a seal gliding past or a school of herring flickering in unison. It’s sharp. Sudden. Like something went off inside it. One second it’s there, perfectly still, and the next it’s gone—vanished sideways

details.

into the shadow of a rock or beneath a curtain of eelgrass. A crab’s legs hinge on the sides, not underneath like ours. Each leg pushes like an oar, catching the bottom and shoving the body across the sand with precision. And when they move, they move faster than you'd think. The crabs here in Hood Canal aren’t built for land speed, but underwater? They’re spring-loaded traps. One second, they’re still, blending into sand or clinging to a piling; the next, gone. Just a blur of motion and a trail of stirred-up silt. I’ve watched a Dungeness bolt sideways across a sandy shelf with such force it left a trench behind, vanishing beneath a ledge before I could even lift my camera. Kelp crabs don’t move quite as fast, but when they do, it’s sudden, those long, delicate legs pulling their mossy bodies up and over kelp blades like they’re trying to escape the light. Helmet crabs and graceful kelp crabs can vanish into the gloom in a blink if you come too close. They don’t waste energy, every movement counts. When they go, it’s all at once, like something spooked in the woods, sharp and armed. Not all of them run. Some freeze, legs tucked tight, trusting camouflage to outlast your curiosity. Decorator crabs are masters of this—covered in algae, sponges, and stitchedon debris, they hold so still you doubt they were ever moving at all. You notice them only when they twitch once, like something from a dream that leaves no foot-

prints.

Others bluff. The Red Rock raises its claws in defiance, even when outmatched, daring you to come closer. And I’ve seen graceful kelp crabs pull themselves into near-vertical poses, legs extended, trying to look bigger. Then there are the burrowers, smaller crabs like helmet crabs or hairy shore crabs. When spooked, they vanish downward instead of outward, kicking up sand as they wedge themselves under rocks or into old clam holes. Every crab makes a decision in that split second before it moves: fight, freeze, flee, or fade. They don’t choose wrong more than once. Here, hesitation means you get eaten. When they stop—when they finally wedge themselves beneath a rock or vanish into the reef’s contours—they don’t pant or pulse like a fish might. They just stop, as if nothing ever happened.

The eyes are the first thing you notice, two dark marbles on stalks, swiveling like radar dishes in the murk. They move independently, scanning front and back at the same time, and it’s unsettling in a way I can’t quite shake. I’ve knelt in the silt, barely breathing, and watched a crab watch me, one eye fixed on my mask while the other seemed to scan the reef behind it, like it was calculating the best escape route. But crabs aren’t just watching. They’re communicating in ways most people never notice.

They tap, drum, raise, and wave their claws in deliberate patterns, not just to warn or threaten but to talk. Males might flash their chelae, the front claws built like living pliers—part weapon, part tool—each ending in a sharp, hinged pincer. The closer you look, the more the body itself becomes a language. Beneath that armored face, their mouthparts are hidden in plain sight, tucked up under the shell like something secret. Most people never notice them. If you’re patient, you’ll see those tiny, feathered appendages in constant motion, pulling in food, sorting it, filtering it, working like a factory line. It’s never still. Even when a crab looks motionless, it’s chewing through the world one particle at a time.

Crabs are opportunistic feeders—algae, plankton, fish scraps, rotting kelp, even other crabs if the tide turns cruel.

I’ve seen it happen fast, almost clinical. No ceremony. No malice. Just need. They speak through motion, posture, and action, enough where sound doesn’t carry and light doesn’t last. Beneath the shell, hidden to most, lies one of the weirdest parts of crab biology: they breathe through gills, just like fish. The gills are tucked into chambers beneath the carapace, kept moist by leg movements and flaps called scaphognathites that pump water over them. I’ve seen crabs dug into damp sand during low tide, perfectly still but alive, waiting for the tide to return.

They are the seafloor, living, crawling, biting proof that nature doesn’t waste time on beauty when function works better.

Here's something most folks don't realize: you can tell male and female crabs apart by flipping them over. Males have a narrow, pointed abdominal flap; females have a broad, rounded one shaped like a dome. That’s where they carry their eggs, thousands packed tight like orange caviar, gently fanned with back legs to keep oxygen flowing.

When you see a crab crawling across the bottom, it’s easy to think of it as just another bit of marine clutter, another scuttling shape in the gloom. But inside that shell is a creature perfectly engineered for survival, part armor, part instinct, part mystery. The more time I spend with them, the more I believe they’re not just part of the seafloor.

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They are the seafloor, living, crawling, biting proof that nature doesn’t waste time on beauty when function works better. Crabs aren’t just skittering distractions; they’re survivors in a complex life cycle that begins as floating larvae barely bigger than plankton. After hatching, young crabs go through multiple molts, shedding their exoskeletons to grow. These larval forms, called zoeae, drift with the currents—tiny, vulnerable—before settling to the bottom where the real battles begin.

Molting continues in adulthood. During these soft-shelled interludes, crabs are most vulnerable. Many hide in the sand or under rocks. For females, it’s the only time they can mate, making it a moment of both risk and opportunity. Once fertilized, females carry eggs on their undersides like a clutch of orange grapes. Not all eggs survive, and not all crabs do either. For every empty shell tumbling in the current, another waits just out of view, ready to take its place.

As a diver, I’ve learned that the best moments often happen in the periphery. You come for the wolf eel or the octopus, but you stay because something small scuttles in and steals the show. Crabs are like that, endlessly watchable, hard-wired to move, eat, and thrive.

Next time you’re under the surface or in a tide pool, watch a crab at work. There’s a world in those legs, strange and alive as anything in the sea. A reminder, we’re only visitors in their kingdom.

Thom Robbins

Thom is a regular contributor for the Fjord. Fascinated with the underwater world, he has been a diver for 30+ years. When not diving, he spends time with his wife, Barb. Her support has driven his passion for constantly capturing better photos. Thom and Barb live in Shelton WA with two English Bulldogs. Learn more about Thom at thomrobbins.com.

Brewing Gratitude:

Coffee & Kindness for Bear Gulch Fire Crews

On a warm August morning in Shelton, a simple gesture turned into a powerful show of community spirit. Our Community Credit Union (OURCU) joined forces with Sugar & Bean Coffee Co. to bring handcrafted coffee — and heartfelt thanks — to the wildland firefighters stationed at Sanderson Field, who are bat tling the Bear Gulch Fire near Lake Cushman.

On August 22, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee greeted crews arriving from as far away as New York and California. For teams who have spent long, grueling days protecting homes, forests, and lives, a steaming cup offered more than just caffeine — it was a reminder that a whole community was behind them.

To make the moment even more meaningful, OURCU team members created colorful, handwritten signs with messages of encouragement and gratitude. “We know a cup of coffee doesn’t extinguish a fire,” says Amber Trail, OURCU’s Director of Marketing, “but it can offer comfort, connection, and a boost of energy. Most importantly, it’s a reminder that we see and value the incredible work these crews are doing.” She credits Deputy Colbenson of the Mason County Sheriff’s Office for helping to coordinate the special day.

For Sugar & Bean Coffee Co., which sits right at the entrance to Sanderson Field, the effort was personal. “The Bear Gulch base camp being set up right next to us was definitely unex pected,” says owner Molly Clark. “But we couldn’t be more honored to serve the crews working so tirelessly to keep our community safe. It’s been a true privilege getting to know teams from across the country and becoming a small part of their journey.”

The Bear Gulch Fire has already burned more than9,400 acres and is only 10% contained. Its steep, rugged terrain requires helicopters, sprinkler systems, structure-protection wraps, and even infrared drone imaging to keep it from spreading. Against this backdrop of challenge and risk, the small act of sharing coffee became something bigger — a symbol of unity, resilience, and gratitude.

OysterFest 2025: A SHELL-EBRATION 43 YEARS IN THE MAKING

Every October, Mason County comes alive with the briny aroma of fresh shellfish, the sounds of live music, and the laughter of thousands of visitors from near and far. This year marks the 44th annual West Coast Oyster Shucking Championship and Washington State Seafood Festival—better known simply as OysterFest—and it promises to be the biggest, tastiest, and most community-driven celebration yet.

Deep Roots

Since its start in 1982, OysterFest has been about more than just oysters. Conceived by the Shelton Skookum Rotary Club, its mission has remained the same for more than four decades: To create a fun, family-friendly event that brings the community together and celebrates Mason County’s thriving shellfish industry while raising funds that support community service projects across the county.

Today, all four Mason County Rotary Clubs pitch in—Skookum Rotary organizes the overall event, Shelton Rotary throws the OysterFunk kickoff party, Salish Sea Rotary curates the Wine Pavilion, and North Mason Rotary operates a food booth.

Hundreds of volunteers from local service clubs and organizations round out the effort, ensuring that every oyster is shucked, every child is entertained, and every guest feels welcome.

OysterFunk Friday

The festivities begin Friday, October 3, with the annual OysterFunk, a 21+ party in the beer garden at Sanderson Field. Admission is just $5, with food, beverages, and—you guessed it—oysters available for purchase. Local Hoodsport talent, the Kittie Mae Band will keep the dance floor hopping from 6–10 PM. The event is a great way to kick off the annal two day celebration.

OysterFest

October 3-5

Sanderson Field, Shelton Airport

250 W Sanderson Way, Shelton, WA

Kittie Mae

OysterFest

OysterFest itself runs Saturday, October 4 (10 AM–6 PM) and Sunday, October 5 (10 AM–5 PM), drawing nearly 12,000 visitors each year—plus over 400 RVs that turn the airport grounds into a weekend-long festival community. Admission for the event is $15 for adults with kids 17 & under and parking free.

Of course, no OysterFest is complete without the West Coast Oyster Shucking Championship. Main event is watching the pros go shell-to-shell in the daily heats. Saturday everything is about Speed Shucking where the shuckers go for titles and cash prizes. Sunday focuses on accuracy over speed with the Half Shell Competition prizes ranging up to $750 for first place. The contests are as fast, furious, and fascinating as any sporting event—and a must-see for festival-goers.

OysterFest is one of the few festivals where the majority of food booths are run by local nonprofits, meaning every bite helps fund a community project. From fresh-shucked oysters and smoked salmon to chowders and desserts,over 30 local non-profits come together to create a variety of delicious food options. Raise a glass in the Wine Pavilion, featuring pours from this year’s spotlight winery, Two Loons Winery (Gig Harbor), or sip local craft brews and ciders in the beer garden while catching live performances all weekend long.

Entertainment

Bistro Stage highlights Saturday include the Shel-town Strummers and Lady Drinks Whiskey. Sunday includes the very-dance-able Swing Fever Band and Harmony Ridge. Saturday on the Beer Garden stage features Strike Nine, Hurts Like Hell, Suped up Fjord, and The Varmints. Sunday, welcome the Randy Linder Band, The Spinoffs, and Nikko & The Night Shift.

Kids can enjoy a whole weekend of fun with Professor Bamboozle’s shows, YMCA activities, face painting, mini golf, and the ever-popular Kiddie Train provided by Kristmas Town Kiwanis. Art, Souvenirs & More

Every year, a local artist is selected to create the official OysterFest poster, and this year’s winner is Janette Stiles, whose piece “Oyster Bay Harvest” captures the spirit of the season. Signed posters, along with T-shirts, hats, glasses, and other souvenirs, are available at the merchandise tent.

Beyond the food and fun, OysterFest hosts 24 nonprofit exhibitors offering interactive displays on ecology, water quality, health, and more—making it a place where visitors leave full of both oysters and inspiration.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you come for the oysters, the shucking showdown, the live music, or simply the chance to celebrate the bounty of Mason County, OysterFest is a must-do fall tradition. Come for the day or make your camping reservations now and load up the RV for a weekend of great food and fun starting Friday night! Dry camping is located on site at the Shelton Airport and prime spots fill fast, so don't wait.

Pack your appetite and bring the family—you won’t want to miss the 43rd anniversary of this Pacific Northwest favorite. Visit oysterfest.org for all the details and entertainment updates on this exciting seafood shell-ebration!

Best Friends Fridays

Shelton is filled

Check out

Friends

Shelton is filled with amazing and creative murals! out this one painted in July on the back alley

Some R 4 U Antiques.

A new Way to Experience Downtown Shelton

There’s something special about downtown Shelton when the sun begins to set — the glow of shop windows, the scent of something sweet drifting from the candy shop, and the quiet hum of people gathering to enjoy a night out. Now, a group of Shelton’s antique, vintage, and specialty shops is inviting the community to experience that magic on a regular basis with Best Friends Fridays — a series of after-hours shopping events designed to turn second Fridays into something worth circling on your calendar.

The first Best Friends Friday, “Hello Fall!”, kicks off September 12. Think of it as downtown Shelton’s way of saying good bye to summer bustle and hello to cozy nights, autumn colors, and good company. Each month downtown retailers will bring a new seasonal theme — a fresh reason to head downtown, grab dinner or a glass of wine, and wander through the shops as the streetlights flicker on.

“Shelton has such a great small-town feel and so much potential to encourage folks to enjoy our walkable downtown core,” says Beth McBain, owner of Back Room Vintiques on 4th Street, “but we tend to pull in the welcome mat promptly at 5 PM. Our goal is to create a fun social and shopping adventure — a chance for friends to meet up after work, explore fabulous vintage and specialty finds, grab a bite, and start the weekend off right.”

So far six downtown businesses have teamed up to get the vibe going: Some R 4 You Antiques, Jessie’s Vintage

Emporium, Cota Street Antiques, The Shelton Candy Shoppe, Maggie’s Market, and Back Room Vintiques. Together, they’re offering extended hours (until 7:30 PM), seasonal savings, prize drawings, and special surprises at each stop. Picture this: shop windows glowing warmly, soft music playing as you step inside a cozy antique store, and the chance to discover a one-of-a-kind treasure while chatting with friends.

Visitors can pick up a small walking map to guide them to each participating location — all within a friendly five-block stroll. The evening promises the kind of relaxed, festive atmosphere that turns a simple shopping trip into an experience.

Back Room Vintiques, 107 S 4th Street

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO THIS FALL?

Mason County Sportsman’s Association's website hosts a to list of classes and events hosted in their indoor range in Shelton.

Questions? Message phone: (360) 427-1102

masoncountysa.org

And this isn’t just about retail therapy. According to the National Antique Retail Association (NARA), 62% of small antique store owners reported an increase in foot traffic this summer compared to last year. Destination vintage shopping is a proven economic boost for small towns, and the organizers hope Best Friends Fridays will keep that momentum going well past summer, giving both locals and visitors a reason to keep coming back.

So gather your besties, throw on a cozy sweater, and head downtown for an evening shopping adventure.

Whether you’re hunting for the perfect vintage find, craving dinner out or a sweet treat, or just want to soak in the small-town charm of Shelton after dark, Best Friends Fridays is the perfect way to start your weekend!

2025 BFF Events Schedule

September 12 – Hello Fall! October 10 – Spooky Season

November 14 – Thankful for You! December 12 – Put A Bow On It.

Historic downtown boasts delicious food and coffee and many shopping options with a wide selection of antique shops, gift boutiques and specialty shops – including everything from candy, gifts and liquor to clothing and handmade items.

Don’t miss stopping for a photo at our historic Tollie Train at the Post Office.

Stop by one of the many great shops downtown to pick up your copy of the Shelton Downtown Merchants Association handy shopping map!

Maggie's Market features wine and a daily selection of freshly prepared gourmet items.

Cota Street Antiques' new mural features, yes, oysters, Chanterelles and geoduck as it traces the Fjord and South Sound!

Great Bend announces a luminous fall season

This fall, the Great Bend Center for Music kicks off its highly anticipated 2025–26 season, Unbowed—a yearlong celebration of resilience, inclusion, and the power of music to unite us all. From September through June, Mason County audiences can look forward to a vibrant series of concerts and community events designed to inspire and connect.

Even better, music lovers can experience all seven concerts of this semiquincentennial celebration of American music for just $99 with a season ticket—making world-class performances accessible right here at home.

Love, Let Us Be True

Sunday, October 26, 2025 | 4:00 PM

St. David’s Episcopal Church, Shelton

This concert lifts up the voices of gay composers whose work has defined the American sound, reminding us that their creativity helped shape the very heart of our national musical identity. The program is anchored by Samuel Barber’s Dover Beach, a haunting meditation on connection and isolation, and his powerful String Quartet No. 2, written during the turbulent years of World War II. Audiences will also be treated to Aaron Copland’s introspective Two Pieces for String Quartet—an intimate glimpse into the early voice of one of America’s most beloved composers—and Lou Harrison’s joyful, rhythmically vibrant String Quartet Set, a work that celebrates authenticity and innovation.

Together, these pieces invite listeners to reflect, love boldly, and celebrate the beauty of diverse voices.

Program: Barber – Dover Beach; Copland – Two Pieces for String Quartet; Harrison – String Quartet Set; Barber – String Quartet No. 2

The Road Less Traveled

Friday, November 21, 2025 | 7:30 PM

Faith Lutheran Church, Shelton

Sunday, November 23, 2025 | 4:00 PM

Olympia First Methodist Church

The Great Bend Chorale and Orchestra bring to life two of America’s most beloved musical treasures, exploring the themes of choice, home, and the search for meaning. Randall Thompson’s Frostiana sets the evocative poetry of Robert Frost to music, turning wellknown verses like The Road Not Taken and The Pasture into shimmering musical landscapes. This heartfelt work is paired with Aaron Copland’s Old American Songs, a lively and tender suite of folk melodies that captures the humor, hope, and spirit of early American life. Program: Thompson – Frostiana; Copland – Old American Songs

Light and Gold

Friday, December 12, 2025 | 7:00 PM |

St. David’s Episcopal Church, Shelton Closing out the fall portion of the season is Light and Gold, a program designed to warm hearts on a winter night. (Full program details to come— this concert promises to be a highlight of the holiday season!)

Whether you are a lifelong classical music fan or a first-time concertgoer, Great Bend’s 2025–26 season offers something rare and meaningful: music that feels personal, relevant, and rooted in community. Season subscriptions are available now—don’t miss your chance to be part of this powerful celebration of American music.

Standing Tall:

The Community Effort to Preserve Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox

If you’ve ever attended the Mason County Forest Festival parade, you’ve likely seen a towering figure making his way down Railroad Avenue — Paul Bunyan himself, tipping his giant fiberglass head to the cheering crowd as he “limbos” beneath the power lines. Behind him, his faithful companion, Babe the Blue Ox, rolls proudly along.

Together, they are more than parade floats. They are living sym bols of our timber heritage, our sense of humor, and our smalltown pride.

But keeping a 32-foot Paul Bunyan and his oversized ox parade-ready is no small feat. Their story is one of community creativity, perseverance, and a deep respect for local history.

Paul Bunyan first arrived in Shelton decades ago, standing in front of a local gas station as a roadside attraction. When the gas station closed, community member and longtime local character Lloyd Prouty saw the potential to give Paul a new life. Lloyd restored the giant statue, mounted him on a trailer, and even installed hydraulics so Paul could bow down low enough to clear the

power lines along the parade route. Lat er, Lloyd tracked down a massive fiberglass blue ox to be Paul’s companion, and together, Paul and Babe became a beloved fixture in local celebrations. Before Lloyd passed away, he entrusted both Paul and Babe to the Mason County Historical Society.

However, the cost of maintaining, insuring, and transporting the pair became a challenge for the society, and they asked the Mason County Commissioners to assume ownership. In an inspiring example of local government listening to its citizens,

the commissioners agreed — but there was a catch. Because the trailers carrying Paul and Babe were homebuilt, there were no legal records for them, making it problematic to operate them on public roads and impossible for the County to own as assets.

Enter another wave of community heroes. John Hansen stepped up to volunteer his time and expertise, weighing the giant statues, installing new lights, replacing the tires, and ensuring the trailers were roadworthy. Retired architect Wayne Wenstob measured each shoulder curve to create legal

engineering plans to submit to WSP and licensing, and Leroy Valley of Spike’s Hydraulics repaired rotting hydraulic hoses that power Paul’s signature “head bow.” Working closely with County staff and a senior supervisor from the Washington State Patrol, who traveled from North Seattle to Shelton to personally handstamped VIN numbers and WA State logos into both trailers — the dedicated individuals were officially able to make Paul and Babe legal to travel the streets once more.

Thanks to this collaboration, Mason County’s most famous lumberjack and his faithful ox will continue to bring smiles to faces young and old. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Ma son County Commissioners and staff for taking on this project despite many pressing priorities, to John Hansen and Wayne Wenstob for their hands-on work, to Leroy Valley for his mechanical expertise, and to the Mason County Historical Society for their stewardship of these icons.

Together, they have ensured that Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox will keep representing our timber heritage — not just as statues, but as a rolling celebration of who we are.

Date: Thursday, September 25th / 10:00am – 12:30pm

Location: Long Lake Community Building 5100 Long Lake Road SE, Port Orchard, WA

Register here: https://Kitsap-Mason-EDRRTraining.eventbrite.com

Questions? – info@pnw-ipc.org A group hike from 1:00– 2:00 will take place after a lunch break!

• Master priority invasive plant identification and general invasive species biology

• Learn how to survey and report to federal and state agencies via EDDMapS and INaturalist

• WSDA Recertification credits available to participants

Seven Monkeys Gallery: Where Art Finds a Home in Quilcene

Every town has its hidden treasures, and in Quilcene, one of the brightest is Seven Monkeys Gallery. Housed in what was once a working auto garage, the space now hums with creative energy — a blend of rustic charm and artistic inspiration that makes you want to linger.

Step through the door and you’ll feel the magic. Sunlight streams across handcrafted furniture, grained woodwork, and distinctive lines of Pacific Green Furniture. The walls are alive with paintings, photography, and mixed-media pieces, each one telling its own story of the Pacific Northwest’s beauty and spirit.

No two visits are ever quite the same. One day you might discover the delicate curves of a wood turner’s bowl, the next a painting that perfectly captures the shifting moods of the Olympic Peninsula. Whether you’re a collector or just passing through, Seven Monkeys invites you to slow down and find something that speaks to you.

What makes this gallery especially memorable is the personal touch.

Owners, Mary Pfund and Bill Schult, are happy to share the story behind each work or help you find just the right piece to take home. And if you catch them when the doors are closed, a quick call sets up a private appointment.

Seven Monkeys Gallery isn’t just a place to buy art — it’s a celebration of creativity and community, and a invitation to experience Quilcene’s growing arts scene. For travelers exploring this corner of the Olympic Peninsula, it’s a must-stop destination that proves art really does find its home here.

Seven Monkeys Gallery is located ar 51 Herbert Street in Quilcene. Visit the gallery Saturday 10 – 5 PM, Sunday 1 pm – 5 pm, or by appointment, 360842-1014. Sevenmonkeysgallery.com

Free Movie

Halloween Night

The Shelton Cinemas presents a family friendly movie & food drive for this year's downtown Shelton Halloween Spooktacular event. The movie, Tim Burton's acclaimed Corpse Bride (PG) starring Johnny Depp, plays Friday October 31, 7:00 PM. Free admission with a donation of nonperishable food items for our local food banks. Seating is first come, first served. Come enjoy some spooky fun and help our community at the same time.

Celebrating 90 Years

Wild Felid Center welcomes visitors in Allyn

Tucked away on Harstine Island, there’s a place where the morning routine includes saying hello to servals, lynx, and bobcats. The Wild Felid Advocacy Center provides a forever home to a wide range of wild felines: cougars, African servals, multiple types of lynx, and more.

The Sanctuary opened in 2005 giving over 100 wildcats a forever home over the last 20 years after they were displaced from previous private owners or orphaned or injured in the wild. Currently 18 felids of seven different species reside at the facility that is located only a 20 minute from Allyn, WA.

Sad news broke in November 2024 when the sanctuary lost 21 cats to an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu). Happening over just a few days, the team pushed through the tragedy caring for those who remained, and, in time, welcoming new residents.

"WFAC is a sanctuary where the cats come first" says director Mark Mathews. "Each habitat has an average living space of 23,000' of natural foliage and 10-20 foot tall tree houses."

Quilcene's newest shop features unique & quirky finds: Olympic Mountain Mercantile

There’s a new destination in town for those who love unique finds and local flavor — welcome to Olympic Mountain Mercantile!

The mission is clear and heartfelt: create a welcoming space where local businesses, artists, and makers can share their work with the community. Step inside and you’ll find an eclectic mix of treasures, from vintage Levi’s and cozy flannels to fresh flowers, handcrafted woodwork, jewelry, antiques, seashells, artisan soaps, and so much more.

Whether you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind gift, stocking up on timeless wardrobe pieces, or simply looking for inspiration, Olympic Mountain Mercantile promises a shopping experience that feels both personal and memorable. Stop by, explore, and see why this new gathering place is quickly becoming a favorite local gem.

The Sanctuary is run by 21 very dedicated & high quality volunteers who lead guided visits three days a week. Visits vary in experience ranging from visits during feeding times and behind the scenes visits for serious big cat enthusiasts.

Families travel an average of 2 hours for a visit and local Mason County residents are encouraged to book a tour to see whats right in their backyard. Animal lovers and anyone curious about responsible wild cat care will find a peaceful, guided experience that’s both educational and memorable. The Wild Felid Advocacy Center of Washington is a 501(c)3 federal non-profit licensed by the USDA. All donations are tax deductible.

Visit www.wildfelids.com for details.

Photo:Olympic Mountain Mercantile

Situated between the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains in Mason County, is Hood Canal. A place filled with world-class activities, wild-caught fare, lively events, and plenty of places to hide away from it all when you just want the world to yourself.

Hood Canal is Washington’s wild side. And it’s here for you, when you’re ready to discover yours.

#WILDSIDEWA

KAYAKING

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.

A rich paddling community supports any adventurer’s vision; rental packages and lesson opportunities for the budding kayaker or paddleboarder are not in short supply. Get out on the water and enjoy a fresh perspective of the canal with colossal peaks towering overhead.

EXPERIENCE THE WILD SIDE OF WASHINGTON

Like a giant fish hook weaving beneath the Olympics with a web of inlets, Hood Canal is poised to catch your Imagination and reel in memories for years to come. This majestic saltwater fjord hosts unparalleled shellfish, shrimp, crab, and salmon and is renown as a diving mecca with its glacial formation causing underwater biomes that appear nowhere else. Venture away from the canal to Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest for hiking and Thrilling vistas. Choose from hundreds of easy access freshwater lakes or revel in waterfall views including the Iconic High Steel Bridge. Ablaze with wildflowers in the spring, hidden swimming holes in the summer, a chance To see spawning salmon in the fall, and snow-capped peaks in the winter, there is never an inopportune Time to visit Hood Canal.

CLEAR YOUR MIND AND CHASE WATERFALLS

Hamma Hamma & Rocky Brook are just two of the many falls on Hood Canal waiting to be explored. Want to plan a waterfall getaway? Visit waterfalltrail.org for 25 unique and special places to visit.

HIGH STEEL BRIDGE

Soaring 420' above the Skokomish River, the High Steel Bridge (1929), is the highest steel truss arch bridge in Washington. You won’t even need to leave the car for this breathtaking view. Follow Skokomish Valley Rd 11 miles from Hwy 101 to reach the bridge.

MOTORSPORTS

The Ridge Motorsports Park racing course near Shelton includes a fantastic road course that's geared towards club racers and competitors. Head to the DNR forests for some unmatched off-road trail rides.

TRAILS & WALKS

World-class hiking trails lace the Olympic Mountain wilderness, leading from mountain stream beds through old growth forest to high-altitude ridge lines with breathtaking views of Hood Canal and beyond.

TAKE A LEAP

We love the folks at SKYDIVE KAPOWSIN! Feel the adrenaline pumping rush of free-fall and experience the freedom of the air with highly trained professional instructors. Views of the fjord and the Olympics and a seven minute free fall adrenaline rush from 13,000 feet will definitely change your outlook.

TASTING YOUR WAY AROUND THE CANAL & SOUND

Do a farm-to-table dining loop experiencing some Northwest flavors – including Hama Hama, Hardware Distillery, Stottle, Hood Canal Winery, Olympic Mountain Ice Cream.

PICK A PEAK

From easy day hikes with the family to overnights or “experience needed” excursions – you don’t Have to go far for spectacular memories!

RIDE THE RAILS

May through October experience nature and history pedaling the timber rail on a 2- hour quadricycle excursion. vancecreekrailriders.com

FISHING

From open water trolling on the sound to throwing dry flies on small lowland lakes, there are plenty of fishing opportunities in the area. Seek colossal coho in the fall and hungry trout in the spring to see why every season is fishing season in Hood Canal.

BIKING

Don the helmet and clip into your pedals, for there is no shortage of road or trail from which to experience the beauty and thrill of this landscape

PHOTO:

UP YOUR GOLF GAME

Award-winning courses with incredible views of the Olympics on lush fairways – Hood Canal and South Puget Sound are ideal destinations.

ALDERBROOK GOLF

(360) 898-2560 | Union alderbrookgolf.com

Par 72 course follows natural contours. Restaurant, lounge & proshop onsite.

LAKE CUSHMAN GOLF

(360) 877-5505 | Hoodsport lakecushmangolfcourse.com

In the Olympic Mountain forest, this 9-hole course plays a challenging 18 holes.

LAKELAND VILLAGE

(360) 275-6100 | Allyn lakelandliving.com

With views of the Olympics and Mount Rainier, the 27-hole course has world class dining.

LAKE LIMERICK GOLF

(360) 426-6290 | Shelton lakelimerick.com

Beautiful, affordable, and challenging 9-hole course with annual memberships with unlimited play available. Voted Best Golf Course in SheltonMason County 2022-2024,the Café serves great food at affordable prices. Lake Limerick is also open for rentals in the lakefront Great Hall.

SALISH CLIFFS GOLF

(360) 462-3673 | Kamilche salish-cliffs.com

18-hole par & 72 championship course is adjacent to LITTLE CREEK CASINO RESORT, a full service resort & casino.

SHELTON DISC GOLF masoncountydiscgolf.com

Different type of golf? 18hole disc golf course located in the watershed at the intersection of Wallace Kneeland Blvd & Shelton Springs Rd.

CRUISE THE HOOD

Explore the canal with your own boat or arrange with ALDERBROOK RESORT. Scheduled & private charters available. alderbrookresort.com

SCUBA DIVING

Scuba sales, air, training, rentals, and charters available at Hoodsport near renowned destinations like SUND ROCK and OCTOPUS HOLE yssdive.com

FOR THE BIRDS

With a majestic and varied landscape, Hood Canal is a gorgeous place to come search for the over 250 species that call the Olympic Peninsula home. Chock full of life – birds like bald eagles, rhinoceros aucklets and more on premiere birding trails –this is a birder’s paradise! OLYMPICBIRDTRAIL.ORG

ON THE WATER

Hood Canal occupies 150 square miles of the Olympic Peninsula and bellies up to the Olympic National Park. It's home to thousands of species of fish and marine mammals and invertebrates like orcas, oysters, and octopus. There's hardly a better way to take it all in than on the water.

SHELTON CELEBRATING A RICH TIMBER HISTORY

SHELTON is the westernmost city on Puget Sound. Featuring a bustling heritage core, its landscape is marked by colossal forests which led to a title of “Christmas Tree Capital of the World.”

Dubbed CHRISTMASTOWN, USA, since 1962, Shelton successfully won the Guinness World Record for Most Lit Christmas Trees in 2019.

SHELTON AREA LODGING

Harstine Island Beach Cabin | 21 E Dana Dr, Shelton | (253) 943-5264 | harstinerental.com

Little Creek Casino Resort | W 91 State Route 108, Shelton | (800) 667-7711 | little-creek.com

Riptide Retreat | 291 East Agate Beach Drive, Shelton | riptideretreat.com

Shelton Inn | 628 W Railroad Ave, Shelton | (360) 426-4468 | sheltoninn.com

Super 8 Motel | 2943 Northview Circle, Shelton | (360) 426-1654 | super8.com

OYSTERFEST 2025

OCTOBER 3-5 | Shelton Airport

Celebrating a rich shellfish heritage in Mason County, this event brings together over 30 local food vendors, exhibits, and music. Details available at: explorehoodcanal.com/events.

POTLATCH STATE PARK

Longest stretch of PUBLIC BEACH in Mason County with shellfish, kayaking, and Hood Canal water access.

DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED

HUNTER FARMS

Farm Market, seasonal events; Visitor Center

SHELTON VISITOR CENTER

TO GO: Red Caboose on Railroad Avenue Information, handouts, and maps

ISABELLA LAKE TRAILS

EASY 2.5 mile loop, rolling meadows

TO GO: Hwy 101 exit at SR#3 to Golden Pheasant Rd, right on Delight Park Rd. DISCOVER PASS

TAYLOR SHELLFISH STORE

Fresh seafood, tours available; open to public. Hwy 101 to Taylor Towne Exit.

SQUAXIN ISLAND TRIBE MUSEUM

Stories, photos, art, artifacts dating back over 500 years. TO GO: Hwy 101 to Kamilche exit , follow signs. ADMISSION CHARGE

WALKER PARK Beach access, playground, restrooms, picnic shelter, kayak access. NO FEE/PASS

OYSTER BAY

Beach,marshy estuary, for birding, salmon observing or fishing.

TO GO: Parking pullout on Hwy 101, marker 356 /Old Olympic Hwy. NO FEE/PASS

SCHAFER STATE PARK TRAIL

Trails, interpretive center, swimming, fishing. TO GO: 12 miles north of Elma on the East Fork of the Satsop River. The park is also accessible via the Brady exit from Hwy 12.

DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED

THE KENNEDY CREEK SALMON TRAIL

Chum salmon are on view as they make their way up river

TOPOGRAPHY: flat, viewing platforms, interpretive signs TO GO: Hwy 101, Old Olympic Hwy; weekends, seasonally. NO FEE/ PASS

ALLYN

Waterfront park features gazebo and lawns, play area, and beach access. NO FEE/PASS

HARSTINE ISLAND TRAIL

300 acres to explore EASY 1.5 mile, beach DISCOVER PASS

HOPE ISLAND STATE PARK

106 acre park reachable only by water. Old-growth forests, saltwater marshes, fruit trees, beaches, historical buildings, friendly deer. Destination for kayakers and boaters!

TO GO: access by boat, mooring available, beach landing, boats and kayaks can launch at Arcadia Point (0.5 miles). CAMPING FEES

STAIRCASE | OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK

Ranger Station is open in summer with information, exhibits, wilderness permits, map sales and wheelchair available. Road open year-round weather permitting. Call (360) 565-3131 NATIONAL PARK PASS

TO GO: HWY 101 to SR#119, follow FS#24 to Staircase Entrance.

RAPIDS LOOP: EASY family friendly 2 mile trail through old growth forest to a bridge over the North Fork Skokomish River; only 200-foot elevation gain. BIG CEDAR, a 0.6 mile spur trail, leads to a fallen cedar while a 0.5 mile section leads to a river viewpoint.

FOUR STREAM: EASY 1.2 mile to Beaver Flat, swampy section of alder/cedar forest. Elevation loss 100 ft.

WAGONWHEEL LAKE: MODERATE TO DIFFICULT climbing 2.9 miles (elevation gain of 3,365 ft).

FLAPJACK LAKES: DIFFICULT climbing 7.8 mile one-way hike (3,115 ft elevation gain).

LOWER LENA LAKE TRAIL

Well maintained popular trail leads to a small lake

MODERATE TO DIFFICULT 3 mile climb,switchbacks

TO GO: Hwy 101 at Hamma Hamma Recreation Area

UPPER LENA LAKE TRAIL

Steep with unstable bed; camping.

MODERATE TO DIFFICULT 4.3 mile climb

TOPOGRAPHY: 3,800 foot gain to sub-alpine lake

TO GO: Same as Lower Lena Lake Trail above.

WILDERNESS PERMIT FOR CAMPING

NW FOREST PASS FOR PARKING

BIG CREEK

Great pack-in picnic destination with pools and footbridges.

MODERATE 4 miles

TO GO: Trailhead at FS#24 and SR#119 junction.

NW FOREST PASS

market.

EAGLE CREEK

Beach access & parking across from Eagle Creek Saloon. NO FEE/PASS

HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER

TO GO: Located just off Hwy 101 in Hoodsport – information, handouts, maps PASSES FOR PURCHASE

HAMMA HAMMA

LIVING LEGACY TRAIL

Spectacular views of the Mt. Skokomish and the Brothers ranges; interpretive signage. Trail passes Hamma Hamma Cabin built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (1930s).

EASY TO MODERATE 1.5 mile loop.

TOPOGRAPHY: First 0.25 mile is barrier free along the river; ascends bluff to creek.

TO GO: Hwy 101 to FS#25, 5.5 miles.

WILDERNESS PERMIT REQUIRED FOR CAMPING

DEWATTO BAY Beach with dramatic view of the Olympics; excellent photography destination. Lots of ripe berries in late summer.

TO GO: Belfair-Tahuya Rd to Dewatto Rd, 4 miles.

SERVICES AT PORT OF DEWATTO CAMPGROUND

TAHUYA STATE FOREST

23,100 acre forest provides open spaces for sightseeing, camping, nature study, fishing, hiking,horse, ATV, ORV, and biking. A “working forest” trail may be closed due to forest management activities.

TOPOGRAPHY deep woods

TO GO: Hwy 300/Belfair

Tahuya Rd, 1.1 mile

DISCOVER PASS

MENARD’S LANDING

Expansive beach with panoramic views of Olympics. Picnic tables. NO FEE/PASS

SkokomishValleyRd

VISITOR CENTER/ BELFAIR LICENSING

TO GO: On Hwy 3 in Belfair PASSES FOR PURCHASE Park/ vehicle/vessel/fishing/hunting northmasonchamber.com

HAMA HAMA STORE

Oyster Saloon and fresh seafood

DALBY WATERWHEEL TO GO: SR#106

HIKING & BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

Clamber up the rugged trails, tiptoe through the quiet old growth forest, or careen through the pristine meadows of Olympic National Forest & National Park. Shoulder your pack and experience the sights and sounds of the vast wilderness home to some of the most beautiful flora & fauna in the world. Ablaze with wildflowers in the spring, cool hidden swimming holes in the summer, a chance to see spawning salmon in the fall, and snow capped peaks in the winter, there is never an inopportune time to hike Hood Canal.

ITINERARY 3: HOODSPORT & NORTH HOOD CANAL

HUG THE CURVES

As Hwy 101 navigates the bays of HOOD CANAL, imagine relaxing dockside of a beachside cabin, watching the seals roll off the rocks.

CANAL SPIRIT

HOODSPORT WINERY, STOTTLE WINERY, and HARDWARE DISTILLERY offer tastings amongst shopping, dining and the famous Olympic Mountain Ice Cream.

FORAGE DINNER

Come prepared with buckets and boots. Check regs at wdfw.wa.gov before digging – or stop by HAMA HAMA STORE & OYSTER SALOON for freshly prepared seafood.

DIVE DEEPER

Giant octopus, wolf eels and swarms of ancient rock cod add to the wonder of this special place. AIR, GEAR & SCUBA LESSONS, RENTALS & CHARTERS available.

WEST HOOD CANAL LODGING

Alice’s Little Beach House | 112 N Allie Ahl Ln, Lilliwaup | (360) 877-9226 | aliceslittlebeachhouse.com

The Glen Motel (Glen Ayr) | 25381 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | (360) 877-9522 | glenayr.com

Mike’s Beach Resort | 38470 N Hwy 101, Lilliwaup | (360) 877-5324 | mikesbeachresort.com

The Moose House at Lake Cushman | Lake Cushman | themoosehouse.com

Pali-Kai Canal House | 327000 N Hwy 101, Lilliwaup | (360) 426-2224

Sunrise Motel & Dive Resort | 24520 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | (360) 877-5301

Waterfront at Potlatch | 21660 N Hwy 101, Potlatch | (360) 877-9422 | thewaterfrontatpotlatch.com

Yellow House | 23891 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | (360) 877-6818 | hoodsportndive.com

ALLYN/ BELFAIR/UNION LODGING

Allyn

Allyn House Inn | 18350 State Route 3, Allyn | 535-2198 | allynhouseinn.com

Belfair & Tahuya

Belfair Motel | 23322 NE State Route 3, Belfair | 275-4485 | belfairmotel.net

Gladwin Beach House | 391 Gladwin Beach Rd, Belfair | (360) 337-2960 | explorehoodcanal.com

Sisters Point Waterfront Cabin | 12121 NE North Shore Rd, Belfair | (360) 275-6816

Summertide Resort | 15781 NE Northshore Road Tahuya | (360) 275-9313 | summertideresort.com

Union

Alderbrook Resort & Spa | 10 E Alderbrook Drive, Union | (360) 898-2200 | alderbrookresort.com

Blue Heron Resort Condos | 6520 E SR106, Union | (360) 614-3191 | attheblue.com

Cottages at Hood Canalé | 6871 E SR 106, Union | (360) 710-7452| booking.hoodcanale.com

Hood Canal Events Accommodations | curated short term rentals | hoodcanalevents.com

Hood Canal Resort Properties | 8761 E SR 106, Union | (360) 842-9779 | hoodcanalresort.com

Robin Hood Village Resort | 6780 E State Route 106, Union | 898-2163 | robinhoodvillageresort.com

The

WATERFRONT

The area features quaint shops, a variety of restaurants, and beach parks.

GRAPE VIEWS

Waterfront Grapeview is the location of first winery and vineyards of the Pacific Northwest.

BEACH WALK

There are plenty of great public beaches to explore and launch points for your kayaks.

ALLYN & GRAPEVIEW enjoy gorgeous views of the protected harbor waters of Case Inlet. The area features quaint shops, waterfront lodging, restaurants, and beach parks.

Annually, the Grapeview area hosts the Water and Art Festival, a day-long event featuring entertainment and juried artists.

ITINERARY 5: BELFAIR AREA

TAKE A WALK ON BOARDWALK

Hood Canal’s wild 139 acre THELER WETLANDS hosts two miles of trails. 1,700+ feet of floating boardwalk, native plants, and interpretive kiosks to experience wetland wildlife. olympicbirdtrail.org

SALMON STRONG

THE SALMON CENTER provides education and recreation through a series of collaborative activities at their certified organic farm. They also host seasonal events. pnwsalmoncenter.org

VISITOR INFORMATION & RESOURCES

HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER

150 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport, WA (360) 877-2021 | (800) 576-2021

BELFAIR VISITOR CENTER

30 NE Romance Hill Rd, Belfair, WA (360) 275-4267 | northmasonchamber.com

UNION VISITOR INFORMATION

Located at Hunter Farms, E 1921 SR 106, Union, WA

SHELTON CHAMBER

VISITOR CENTER

215 W. Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA | (360) 426-2021

Open 8 AM - 5 PM | Monday through Friday

MASON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

427 W. Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA

11 AM - 4 PM | Tuesday through Saturday

TAKE TO THE TRAILS

23,100 acre TAHUYA STATE FOREST for camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, ATV, ORV, and mountain biking. dnr.wa.gov

FJORD WELCOME CENTER

24341 N US Hwy 101, Hoodsport, WA

FREE Concierge Service: maps, lodging, dining & hikes information (360) 877-2102

RIDE FREE IN MASON COUNTY

From ferries in Seattle to trailheads in Hood Canal, Mason Transit offers free rides – masontransit.org

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK nps.gov

Hoodsport's FlyWheel

Gallery spins into a bold new chapter

On the curve of Hwy 101, where the mountains meet the water, sits one of Hoodsport’s most creative new spaces. The FlyWheel Gallery, tucked inside “The Landing” building — also home to a local winery and brewery — has been quietly re-imagining what an art gallery can be since its opening in August 2024.

Founder Jan Morris started the FlyWheel as a creative experiment — an off-site tasting room for The Hardware Distillery, infused with local art. The gallery quickly became a gathering place where visitors could sip handcrafted cocktails while soaking in the work of Mason County’s most talented artists, alongside select works from neighboring counties.

But the FlyWheel is now gearing up for its next evolution — one that blends art, music, food, and community more seamlessly than ever.

Taking the reins of day-to-day operations is Mason Bonner, a Grammy-nominated mixing engineer who traded Chicago’s urban rush for the quiet charm of Hoodsport three years ago. Mason, his wife, and young son were drawn to the region’s slower pace and natural beauty, and now he’s ready to infuse the FlyWheel with his own brand of creativity.

Mason’s background is impressive: he’s worked with influential artists and companies like Google, Stephen Colbert, and Chance the Rapper, and his recording, mixing, and mastering work has been streamed hundreds of millions of times. Now, he plans to use that experience to turn the FlyWheel into a hub for live music and intimate cultural experiences.

The back room and outdoor deck are being transformed into a cozy café space, offering cocktails, mocktails, coffee, tea, and even juices for kids. The idea is to create a space where the whole community feels welcome — a spot where art lovers, music fans, and families can gather in every season, rain or shine.

The new performance series, “Beside the Gallery,” will debut this fall, featuring small, intimate concerts that complement the art on display.

Some shows will even be recorded and produced on-site, with the potential to stream the performances to a wider audience.

Jan Morris will continue to curate the fine art, ensuring that the gallery remains a showcase for local creativity. The long-term vision is to transform the back half of the gallery into a “speakeasy-style” space for evening events — a place where the lights are low, the music is live, and the community gathers to experience something special.

With extended winter hours planned, The FlyWheel aims to be a bright spot in Hoodsport’s rainy months, giving residents and visitors alike a place to connect over art, music, and great conversation.

MASON BONNER

North Mason School welcomes new leadership for 2025/26:

Dr. Kristine Michael

The North Mason School District has a new leader after Dana Rosenbach's retirement at the end of the 2024-25 school year. Dr. Kristine Michael, who started as superintendent in July, came to Mason County from Ohio, where she led a district near Columbus. She and her husband moved here drawn to the natural beauty and community.

“Every time we visited, we’d ask ourselves, ‘Why do we live in Ohio?’” Michael said, during a visit with Tracing The Fjord. “When I saw the superintendent position open, I knew it was a chance to both contribute to education and finally make Washington home.” She says North Mason’s size—about 2,200–2,300 students—is a “sweet spot,” large enough to offer a variety of programs but small enough for her to know staff and connect with students. She’s especially excited to meet with the student leaders to hear directly from young people about what’s working and what can improve.

Michael has already noticed the community’s deep pride in its schools, from the Career and Technical Education programs to the salmon habitat projects and cultural activities like canoe carving. But she’s also realistic about challenges ahead, particularly school funding. After the last levy failed, the district made about $4 million in cuts. She’s working with a citizens committee that will be giving it another chance for the replacement levy on the November ballot.

“The state apportionment just isn’t enough to provide everything our students need and deserve,” Michael said. “We have to make the case to everyone—whether they have children in the schools or not—that this is an investment in the whole community.” Dr. Michael is also focused on student safety, updating security measures, and building partnerships with local agencies. She’s also committed to addressing modern challenges in education, from responsible technology use to the social-emotional well-being of students.

To connect more with the North Mason citizens, Michael is launching “Soup with the Sup,” a quarterly event where community members can sit down over soup and conversation. It’s her way of creating a space for dialogue outside the formal constraints of a school board meeting.

“Schools are the heart of a community,” she adds, “I want to listen, learn, and work with everyone to make sure North Mason students have every opportunity to succeed.”

October 31 | 4-6 pm

spooktacular

Get ready for Downtown Shelton’s annual Halloween Spooktacular! Once again, the Shelton Downtown Merchants have teamed up with the Shelton Mason Chamber to bring you awickedly funl evening of Halloween festivities. Get your costumes ready and join us for a night of trick-or-treat fun with local businesses!

Calling all goblins, ghosts, and witches – the entire community is invited to take part in events from 5th through 1st Streets in downtown Shelton.

Enjoy Photo op booth opportunities at Cooper Studios on railroad Avenue and enter the Costume Contest hosted by John L. Scott. Prepare for a fun-filled experience as you stroll along the sidewalks, collecting treats & surprises from our friendly merchants.

Railroad Ave will transform into a pedestrian paradise, ensuring that everyone can roam freely and enjoy Halloween spirit safely.

Additionally, businesses and organizations (downtown or not) are invited to join in the fun! With extra space along Railroad and in Evergreen Square, if you're eager to contribute to the Halloween magic, let us know. Register here: masonchamber.com/ halloween-spooktacular-2025

Cloverwood Candle Company: A Bright Spot on Cota Street

tefanie and I recently went to the Cloverwood Candle Com pany on Cota Street in Shelton for a date night after hearing about their Pour Decisions event on social media. From the moment we walked in, the space felt warm and inviting. Their long table had been set with an impressive charcuterie board, drinks, and supplies for sixteen of us who’d come to try our hand at candle-making. It didn’t take long to realize this was more than just an evening craft—it was going to be a whole experience.

We each got to see and sniff more than thirty fragrances, choosing and blending scents until we found the right mix. Stefanie choose pineapple-passionfruit while I played with a combination of black coral and moss, Caribbean Teakwood, and leather. After choosing our candle jars (there were plenty to pick from), we were given the coconut wax to mix with the oils. The rest of the night was easygoing—we chatted with the other participants while our candles set. For the price, especially with food and drinks included, it was a great value and a memorable night out.

That kind of atmosphere is exactly what owner Heather Smith envisioned when she opened the shop. The journey began, as many small businesses do, with a personal need. In this case, it was her daughter’s severe allergies and asthma. Ordinary candles were out of

the question, either because of irritants in their ingredients or high prices. Heather wanted to create something safe and comforting, so she researched waxes, wicks, and oils until she found what worked best.

Word spread quickly at the Shelton Farmers Market, where Heather first sold her candles. Customers shared similar stories of sensitivity and excitement at finding a candle that wouldn’t make them cough or wheeze. With success at the market and an opportunity to grow, Cloverwood Candle Company on Cota St was born, where the candle bar has now become a gathering place for people to create and relax. They also offer premade candles if you’re looking for a gift or want a new scent for your home. Every candle is made with coconut wax, wood wicks, and clean scents. The result is a long-lasting, room-filling

fragrance without the soot or irritants that come from paraffin. Their best-seller? Black Cardamom and Cream—a blend of spices, chestnut, and cream. The shop also collaborates with local businesses, like pairing candles with surprise book selections through Brinnville Books’ “Blind Date with a Book.” It’s just one example of how Cloverwood is weaving itself into Shelton’s growing cultural fabric.

For me, being at KMAS for so long and watching Cota St grow and contract over the years, Cloverwood Candle Company is more than just a shop—it’s a spark in downtown’s growing art district. Whether it’s a date night, a girls’ outing, or a private group event, it’s an experience anyone can enjoy—and one I’d highly recommend.

JEFF SLAKEY, TRACING THE FJORD