Rachel Hansen | Tracing the Fjord editor Procrastination. There are so many things we could do – things we want to do. I often feel that I am so skilled at persuading my inner voice to put off what I "have to do" that it seems I live in a perpetual state of catch up. Instead of seeing this as a flaw it may be time to embrace the realization that even those "unnessesary" moments are as essential as the tasks we deem important.
This may sound like an excuse for delaying the inevitable but a case may be made for constant growth – and reflection. The dwindling summer is an opportunity to reflect on our treasures – not so much chattels but more our intrinsic valuables – families, friends, experiences. Even such simple things as good health and laughter. As we rush about doing the things we "have to do," take time to think how you can add more of those good things to your life.
Fjords are found where glaciation extends below current sea level.
A fjord is formed when a glacier retreats, carving a U-shaped valley that the sea fills. Formed over13,000 years ago, Hood Canal is not a canal, as defined by Captain George Vancouver when he "discovered" it in 1792, but in fact the only fjord in the lower 48 states. There are plenty of fjords in Canada and Alaska. Averaging 150' deep, Hood Fjord is as deep as 600' in areas on the bottom are covered by glacial sill.
Spend a little more time at the Canal with family and let school shopping wait. Do that hike you've been promising your best friend. Maybe take one more leap into a frigid pool fed by the Olympics. Yes, you may feel that niggling of guilt that you have "better things to do." But really? What is better than creating one more memory? You will get it done –but with a happier fuller heart.
On and around the Fjord - 4
OUTSTANDING IN THE FIELD
A memorable dinner event for 202 guests – 8
EVENT PREVIEW
KILTS & BAGPIPES
Annual Hood Canal Highland Celtic Festival hosted at Belfair State Park Labor Day Weekend, Full details and schedule here - 13
OLYS REVIVED
A Small Oyster Poised for a Big Comeback – 20
OYSTERFEST - 22
TRACKING BIGFOOT
Sasquatch's long history around the Fjord – 36
FALL RECREATION
Opportunities abound in and around the Sound - 47
RUNNING FOR A CAUSE –Check out opportunities to make a difference - 48
This summer the Fjord team visited a lot of events. And I mean a lot. One weekend we scrambled to cover three stacked events. And every event had an entirely different audience. Those that attended Fjordin Crosssin in Hoodsport were seasoned Hood Canal visitors. They knew their fjord haunts.
Attendees at July's Geoduck Festival included those that were escaping from the I-5 gridlock to spend the day in gentle waterfront Allyn enjoying exquisite seafood dishes like geoduck ceviche prepared by Taylor Shellfish or fresh salmon served with a slab of fry bread. They wanted to know all, enthusiastically asking questions, mining away reasons to return.
Shelton's Business Expo was a whole different crowd. It was a blindingly hot day but Railroad Avenue was thick with families, strollers, and dogs in tow. Many generational locals passed by the banners with a knowing nod to the images of moss ladened forests and fresh dungenese, but just as many gathered around our booth eager to learn about area hikes, events, swimming holes, and opportunities to harvest shellfish. One couple with two toddlers had moved to Shelton three years previously from Ohio. They had yet to make it out to the Canal.
The Hwy 101 Wine Mixer was a monumental volunteer undertaking to bring a spectacular music festival to the area. Headliner 90's alt-rock band, Everclear, was preceded by a line up of diverse music genres ranging from punk and bluegrass to baby-boomer cover bands – all sharing a common theme – good music well played.
For subscriptions, information, contribution guidelines and advertising (360) 427-5599 or rachel@nwevent.org.
The Grapeview Water & Art Festival at Grapeview’s Fair Harbor Marina near Allyn celebrated summer with live music, great food, and rows of booths filled with quality juried arts and crafts. All of this set amidst a blooming waterfront garden. Kids enjoyed the craft tables hosted by Habitat for Humanity, with plenty of scope for imagination with paint, paper, cloth, and crafts. Especially remarkable was the tables filled with wooden boat blanks for children to decorate and take home. Do not miss this event next July. Great music, yummy food, a good cause and lots of great buys!
The Taste of Hood Canal hosted on August 11 is an important fundraiser for the Belfair area non-profits. At the new location in Belfair State Park, families can enjoy the beach and playground while viewing classic vehicles and live bands.
Head to the Munn family homestead on Lake Leland near Quilcene August 11 for the annual Moonfest event, This outdoor classic music and car show is the perfect place to meet new friends while enjoying quality entertainment. If you attended the Hwy 101 Mixer you will remember Zepparella, an all female group from California with energetic renditions of classic Zeppelin hits. Maybe you are curious to hear what Jimi Hendrix's brother Leon sounds like? You can find his band at Moonfest this year. Camping at this "feel good"event is encouraged.
August 17 head over to the Skokomish Valley grange for another inaugural music festival. This weekend 21+ camping event, Hoodstock, celebrates art and community to the background rhythm of bands and performers including local favorites like High Ceiling and OMA. Tickets start at just $20/day.
September 1-2 the 8th annual Hood Canal Highland Celtic Festival will be at Belfair State Park. Any Celtic heritage? You will not want to miss the traditional events including sanctioned Highland Games (20'caber tossing anyone?) and the gathering of the clans. See page 13 for details.
In October all of Mason County gets prepared for the annual OysterFest celebration. Here you will find daily live music, kids activities as well as the crowd pleasing professional oyster shucking competition where over 6000 oysters are opened with amazing speed!
MOONFEST, Aug 10-11, Quilcene, WA a spectacular event and location.
Stop by the OysterFest wine tent to taste a collection of Washington wineries pouring at this year's event. Prefer beer? A selection of brews are onsite as well. However, it's really the food that everyone visits OysterFest for – from coconut shrimp to, yes, oysters. There's something for every palate and proceeds go to a multitude of good causes!
Not ready to head indoors? Hama Hama's Music from the Shellpile will be packing the weekends with live music (1:00 PM to 4:00 PM) through Labor Day.
Alderbrook Resort and Spa will be keeping their patio open as well and if you are craving a fun and different night out, make reservations for Union City Market’s monthly Canal Cookouts.
These themed dinners are offered the 3rd Thursday of every month. In the winter, they are held inside the marina and in warmer months outdoors on the patio. August 16 Canal Cookout will celebrate "Fisherman's Paella;" September 20, "Oink;" and October 18, "Woodland to Waterfront." Cost is $45. Details on this and other events, including their Canal Cinema, available at unioncitymarket.com.
Free Summer Movies at Shelton Cinema
Mondays, 11:00 AM
517 W Franklin St, Shelton
August 20, Frozen; August 27, Aladdin
Live Music at the Union Square Deli
Fridays, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
310 E Dalby Rd, Ste 100, Union
Free Bingo at Lucky Dog Casino
Wednesdays, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
19330 N US Hwy 101, Skokomish/Potlatch
Karaoke at Little Creek Casino
Wednesdays, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM
91 W State Route 108, Kamilche
Summer Music at Pleasant Harbor Marina
Saturdays, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
308913 Highway 101, Brinnon
August 18: Jenny Davis Jazz Trio
September 1: Captain J
Crafts & Tastings at Union City Market
Sundays, 11:00 – 3:00 PM
5101 Hwy1 06, Union, WA
August 12: Beer Tasting & Shanty-Making 101; August 19: Smoothie-Making; August 26: Fly-Tying 101; September 2: Preserves & Canning; September 9: Hard Cider Tasting; September
16: Home Coffee Roasting 101; September 23: Pickling 101; October 7: Oysters 101; October 14: Beer, Sausages & Mustard; October 21: Mushrooms
101;October 28: Honey & Tea; November 3: Vegan Nut Cheese-Making; November 10: Oyster Shell Christmas Cards; November 17: Mulled Wine; November 24: Screen Printed Christmas Cards
Country Dance at the Shelton Elks Lodge
Fridays, 6:00 – 12:00 AM
741 SE Craig Rd, Shelton Country dancing with dance lessons.
Live Music at Alderbrook Resort
Fridays, 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
10 E Alderbrook Dr, Union
Wine Tasting at Cameo Boutique
Saturdays, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
6871 E State Route 106, Union
Shelton Farmers’ Market
Saturdays, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Post Office Park, 2nd & Railroad, Shelton
Belfair Saturday Market
Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Corner of NE Roy Road & NE Clifton Lane, Belfair
Sunday Social at 2 Margaritas
Sundays, 7:00 – 10:00 PM
5121 Hwy 106, Union WA
Shelton Mason County Chamber Golf Social at Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
Mondays thru September, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Our homes are privately owned and are managed by Windermere Hood Canal. Let us assist you in getting the perfect location for your next reunion, retreat or romantic getaway. Homes are located in and around Brinnon, Quilcene and Hoodsport in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains on the shores of Hood Canal. An easy weekend getaway from Seattle or Portland.
Each home is fully stocked with cooking tools, coffee pots and microwaves. Bed and bath linens are provided.Discounted weekly rates are available.
Easy online booking at: VacationHomesonHoodCanal.com 360-796-3450
Outstanding in the Field is a traveling celebration of people and place and the origins of good food. A single table is set in an extraordinary site with guests coming from all over to enjoy the experience.
On July 12 the Outstanding in the Field team came to Lilliwaup where they were hosted by Hama Hama Oyster. It was a record hot day in Lilliwaup but the breeze off the Canal cooled the over 200 guests that arrived for the waterfront reception at the farm. After appetizers, fresh oysters, and drinks prepared by Big Gin, Finn River Cider, and W.T. Vintners, the guests proceeded by foot across the iconic Hama Hama bridge to the dinner location on the head of the river.
The high tide in the "kitchen" did not daunt Chef Jason Stoneburner and the team from Seattle restaurant, Bastille, as they sloshed through the Canal.
The ambiance and location were unmatched and difficult to capture in the glorious photos. Three courses were served in total. Golden beets cooked to perfection, cured salmon accented with sour plum and basil; pork loins served with a salty tang of sea asparagus – all unique and fresh ingredients, a hallmark of locally sourced Outstanding in the Field menus.
Some choose to celebrate the beautiful evening with an exhilarating dive from the bridge, while others simply enjoyed the amazing view and great company, basking in the fullness of a delicious meal. One couple had traveled from Atlanta just to experience the dinner at Hama Hama.
Others were from New York, Oregon, California, and, of course, all over Washington. It seems a long way to go for dinner, but when you match the experience and the fantastic setting... it totally seems justified. The team at Hama Hama Oyster Co. did a fantastic job hosting the event and making each dinner guest feel totally welcome on the Canal.
If you get the opportunity to attend an "Outstanding in the Field" event – take it! OITF events happen as far away as France and Bermuda and, as close as Lilliwaup, it is an evening you will not soon forget.
MoonFest 2018
Friday – Saturday, August 10 – 11
Lake Leland Amphitheater
322 Munn Rd, Quilcene
Celebrate classic cars and classic rock bands. classicmoonfest.com
Alderbrook Community Garage Sale
Friday – Saturday, August 10 – 11
330 E Country Club Drive E, Union WA
42 homes participating, maps available at the Clubhouse
1960s Folk Beer Choir
Friday, August 10, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Featuring songs of Peter Paul and Mary and others
Live from the Shellpile: The Rainier Hour
Saturday, August 11, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Hama Hama Oyster Co.
35846 N US Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
Country, blues and roots-rock
Taste of Hood Canal
Saturday, August 11, 10 AM – 5 PM
Belfair State Park
3151 N.E. SR 300, Belfair
Music, vendors, food & drink and a waterfront car show!
Live Music: Anna Robinson
Saturday, August 11, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Live from the Shellpile: Blue Sky Jazz
Sunday, August 12, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Hama Hama Oyster Co.
35846 N US Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
Smooth jazz interpretations of the Great American Song Book
3rd Annual Kiwanis for Kids Fundraiser
Wednesday, August 15, 5:00 PM
Eagle Creek Saloon
31281 N Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
Dinner, live auction, several raffles & karaoke. Tickets at door or any Hood Canal Kiwanis member.
Canal Cookout: Fisherman's Paella
Thursday, August 16, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Union City Market
5101 State Route 106, Union WA
Alderbrook chefs prepares with local ingredients at multiple food stations. $45/unioncitymarket.com
Music in the Park: High Ceiling at Kneeland Park
Thursday, August 16 7 – 8:30 PM
100 Turner Ave, Shelton
Presented by Skookum Rotary | FREE
Hoodstock Music Festival
August 17 – 19
Skokomish Valley Grange
2320 W Skokomish Valley Rd Shelton
21+, outdoor festival, camping and multiple bands; tickets $20/day available at hoodstock.org
Live Music: TNT
Friday, August 17, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Quilcene Town-Wide Sale
Saturday, August 18, 9:00 AM
Throughout Town, Quilcene Find some treasures as the community sets up tables to offer goods!
Live from the Shellpile:
Rhythm & Sass
Saturday, August 18, 1 PM – 4 PM
Hama Hama Oyster Co.
35846 N US Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
Yesteryear Car Club Car Show
Saturday, August 18, 11 AM - 3 PM
Lucky Dog Casino
19330 N State Route 101, Skokomish Vintage, hot rods, custom cars, and motorcycles.
Live Music: The Rainier Project
Saturday, August 18, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Concerts in the Woods
Sister Speak
Saturday, August 18, 7:30 PM
Laurel B. Johnson Community Center
923 Hazel Point Road, Coyle
Canadian songwriter, Sherri Anne, is the creative force behind Sister Speak’s moving live show and unique musical pallet. Compelling vocals, rootsy yet gritty guitar stylings, and thought-provoking lyrics. Concerts all ages and admission is by donation.
Live from the Shellpile:
Vince Brown
Saturday, August 19, 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Hama Hama Oyster Co.
35846 N US Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
Alderbrook Golf Ladies 9 and Wine
August 22, 5:00 PM
Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Shelton-Mason Chamber of Commerce
Annual Golf Tournament
August 24 | details at sheltonchamber.org
Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Live Music: OMA
August 24, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Free Entrance Day in WA State Parks
Saturday, August 25, all day
Car Show with live music at the Pointe
Saturday, August 25
Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Live Music: Jesse Noll
Saturday, August 25, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Live from the Shellpile: Keith Scott Blues
Saturday, August 25, 1 PM– 4 PM
Hama Hama Oyster Co.
35846 N US Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
Fire District 17 Flea Market
Saturday, August 25, 9 AM- 3 PM
Hama Hama Fire Hall
3457 US Hwy101, Lilliwaup
Vendors, handcrafted items, antiques, huge garage sale, bucket raffles, t-shirts, bake sale, Olympic Mountain Ice Cream & more. Quilt and raffle tickets ($1) on sale, raffle items: hand crafted queen quilt, Flying Needles Quilting group; multi-purpose Mosaic Table, $50 certificate Hama Hama Oyster Co; prime rib dinner for two at Eagle Creek Saloon. Vendors welcome, call 360-877-6714
Mushroom Hunting in the Pacific NW
Saturday, August 25, 11:00 AM- 1:00 PM
Hoodsport Timberland Library, Hoodsport
Explore the outdoors by foraging for a vast northwest resource: mushrooms! Puget Sound Mycological Society Past President, Marian Maxwell, will explain the basics, including seasons for mushroom hunting, permits required, types of mushrooms to look for, cooking, dangers and where to hunt.
Music on the Estuary: Swing Fever
Saturday, August 25, 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM
The Salmon Center, 600 NE Roessel Rd, Belfair pnwsalmoncenter.org
Little Creek Casino Presents: Styx
Saturday, August 25, 7:00 PM
Skookum Creek Event Center
91 W State Route 108, Kamilche
Best know for hit songs "Lady", "Come Sail Away", "Too Much Time on My Hands", and four multi-platinum albums, This will definitely be a concert you don't want to miss! Gold - $65; Green - $55; Blue (GA) - $40
Muttley Brewfest 3, The Dog Daze of Summer
Saturday, August 25, 4:00 PM- 8:00 PM
Bent Bine Brew Co, Highway 3, Belfair
A delicious meal for only $10. Proceeds benefit Humane Society of Mason County. (360) 275-9310
Live from the Shellpile: Wild Card
Sunday, August 26, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Hama Hama Oyster Co.
35846 N US Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
Bluesy rock & roll, tunes you might not expect to hear, but would want to hear again.
Mason County Historical Museum: The Pine & the Cherry: Japanese Americans in WA
Sunday, August 26, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
427 West Railroad Avenue Shelton | FREE
Alderbrook Clubhouse Restaurant
presents Chef Dina’s Cooking School
Monday, August 27, 2:00 PM
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
RSVP 360-898-2560 ext 2
Live Music: This Lady Drinks Whiskey
Friday, August 31, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Hood Canal Highland Celtic Festival
Live from the Shellpile: Vic Ruggiero (from the Slackers) & Lauren Napier
Saturday, September 1, 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Hama Hama Oyster Co.
35846 N US Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
Concerts in the Woods – Mark Pearson
Saturday, September 1, 7:30 PM
Laurel B. Johnson Community Center
923 Hazel Point Road, Coyle
Live from the Shellpile: Bread & Gravy
Sunday, September 2, 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Hama Hama Oyster Co.
35846 N US Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
Soul, Rock, Bluegrass, Blues
Live from the Shellpile: Joy in Mudville
Monday, September 3, 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Quilcene Fair & Parade: The Roots We Treasure
Saturday, September 8, 9:00 - 4:00 PM
294715 US Highway 101, Quilcene
Vendors, games, art, crafts, music, and more!
6TH Annual Oktoberfest at Little Creek Casino
Saturday, September 8, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Skookum Creek Event Center
91 W State Route 108, Kamilche
Beer, german cuisine, live entertainment & more!s
13th Annual NCCU Salmon BBQ
Saturday, September 8, 12:00 - 6:00 PM
New Community Church of Union Worship Center, 951 E Dalby Road, Union
Alder smoked grilled salmon fillet, scallop potatoes, Hunter Farms corn, coleslaw, cornbread, and pie.
Canal Cinemas
Abba Singalong Beer Choir
Friday, September 14, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Concerts in the Woods – Curtis and Loretta
Saturday, September 15, 7:30 PM
Laurel B. Johnson Community Center
923 Hazel Point Road, in Coyle
2018 Jefferson County Farm Tour
September 15 - 16, 10:00 AM - 4:00PM
The Farm Tour draws thousands of visitors to working farms and connecting with local farmers.
Quilcene Oyster Races
Sunday, September 16, 9:00 AM (8:00 for walkers)
151 Columbia Street, Quilcene
See page 48, quilraces.com
Worthington Park Mansion Inaugural Opening
Sunday, September 16, starting mid-morning
151 Columbia Street, Quilcene
FREE Outdoor Concert: Joy in Mudville
Sunday, September 16, 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Linger Longer Stage, 151 Columbia Street, Quilcene
Union City Market Canal Cookout: Oink!
Thursday, September 20, 6:00 PM 8:00 PM
5101 State Route 106, Union Chat with Alderbrook chefs as they prepare items throughout the Marina. Tickets $45/person,
Free Entrance Day in WA State Parks
Saturday, September 29, National Public Lands Day
Traveler Trail Run at Skokomish Park
Saturday, September 29, 10:00 AM
7211 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport, WA 98548
39 early registration, hoodcanalevents.com
OysterFest!
Saturday, October 6, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday, October 7, 10:00 AM - 5 PM
250 W Sanderson Way, Shelton WA
Live music, displays, great food, wine and beer tasting, speed and half-shell shucking championship.
Concerts in the Woods – Sky in the Road
Saturday, October 6, 7:30PM
Laurel B. Johnson Community Center
923 Hazel Point Road, in Coyle
Oktoberfest Beer Choir at Alderbrook Golf
Friday, October 12, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
Canal Cookout: “Woodland to Waterfront"
Thursday, October 18, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Union City Market, 5101 State Route 106, Union WA $45/unioncitymarket.com
Concerts in the Woods – Almost Blue Jazz
Sunday, October 21, 7:30PM
Laurel B. Johnson Community Center
923 Hazel Point Road, in Coyle
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Rocky Horror Picture Show Beer Choir
Friday, October 26, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
330 E Country Club Dr, Union
PumpkinFest Catapult Competition
Saturday, October 27, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
1921 E State Route 106, Union, WA 98592
No fee to view catapult competition; $4 fee for hayride to the pumpkin field.
Union Trunk or Treat
Tuesday, October 31, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Union Food Mart (Chevron Station), Union, WA Fun for the whole family... participants dress up and decorate their cars to treat ghosts and goblins. Union Fire Department will be present with one of their big fire trucks. Safe and fun place for the kiddies. Hosted by New Community Church of Union, 360.898.7855 and Union Food Mart, 360.898.7400.
Great Bend Center for Music presents:
Prokofiev “Peter and the Wolf” -
Saturday, November 3, 6:00 PM
Gala Performance, Alderbrook Resort & Spa, 10 E Alderbrook Drive, Union
Sunday, November 4, 3:00 PM
St. Edward’s Catholic Church, 601 W C Street, Shelton Production will feature members of the Pacific Northwest Ballet orchestra and narrator Jeff Slakey of Shelton’s iFiberOneNewsRadio. greatbendmusic.org
Great Bend Center for Music presents:
Haydn “The Creation”
Sunday, November 4, 3:00 PM
St. Edward’s Catholic Church, 601 W C Street, Shelton The Creation is considered one of Haydn’s masterpieces. The combined forces of the Great Bend Chorale and Youth Chorale will perform the work in a semistaged fashion with members of the Pacific Northwest Ballet orchestra and soloists Tess Altiveros (soprano), Will Gardner (tenor), and Charles Robert Stephens (bass). greatbendmusic.org
Concerts in the Woods – Slipshod
Sunday, November 4th, 2018, 3:00PM
923 Hazel Point Road, in Coyle
Music from Gordon Lightfoot, Norman Blake, Simon and Garfunkel, Tim O’Brien, and more.
Father Daughter Night Out at Fantasy Forest
November 9, 5:30 –10:00 PM
Shelton Civic Center, 525 W Cota St, Shelton WA
The Civic Center will be transformed into a space filled with wonders and surprises inspired by The Great Gatsby. Portrait packages offered by Cooper Studios. masongeneral.com
13th Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner
Saturday, November 10, 12:00 – 6:00 PM
New Community Church of Union – Worship Center
951 E Dalby Road, Union, WA 98592
Free Thanksgiving Dinner served with all the trimmings – turkey, dressing, mash potatoes, gravy, corn and green beans, cranberry sauce and seasonal homemade pies.Donations of non-perishable food items and/or cash would be appreciated.
Free Entrance Day in WA State Parks
November 11, Veteran's Day
Business Luncheon & Confections Auction
November 16, 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Little Creek Casino, 91 W State Route 108, Kamilche
This year's Fantasy Forest display will certainly get you in the holiday spirit while dazzling you with tempting desserts to bid on while you enjoy some lively fun with friends. Call (360) 427-3623 for tickets and information. Reservations Required. Ticket price per person $50, Tables of Ten $500.
Barrels & Brews – A Toast to Our Community
November 16, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Little Creek Casino, 91 W State Route 108, Kamilche MGHF is honored to invite you to our annual Barrels & Brews tasting event. Join us as we celebrate Fantasy Forest and our community supporters while enjoying Pacific Northwest wines, craft beers, live music and gourmet hors d’oeuvres.Live music, beer and wine sales and silent auction. 21+ to attend, tickets are $60/person, (360) 427-3623. masongeneral.com
Fantasy Forest Gala and Live Auction
November 17, 5:00 – 11:00 PM
Little Creek Casino, 91 W State Route 108, Kamilche
Consider the Great Gatsby themed Gala a must on your “To Do” list. Kick off 2018’s season of giving attending an enchanting evening at the Little Creek Casino Resort? This storybook experience is an opportunity to dress up, show your support for MGH&FC and make a difference that touches the entire community.Tickets must be purchased in advance and RSVP’s are required for all guests. Tickets are $175, purchase online masongeneral.com.
GENERAL ADMISSION: $15.00
SENIORS & ACTIVE MILITARY $13.00
CHILDREN 6 years old to 10 years old $10.00
CHILDREN 5 and under FREE
TICKETS AVAILABLE AT GATE | CASH ONLY - ATM's AVAILABLE Discovery Pass is NOT required at this organized event at the Belfair State Park. Parking is FREE. Camping is available in the Park with limited availability. Leashed dogs welcome.
September 1-2 | Labor Day Weekend
BELFAIR STATE PARK
Sanctioned Highland Games
Pipe Bands and Celtic Dancers
www.hoodcanalscots.org
Welcome to the 8th Annual Hood Canal Highland Celtic Festival and Games. We have been welcomed once again, with open arms, by Mason County and Belfair State Park and we would like to thank our friends & area merchants for all they do in celebrating with us.
We hope to introduce you to something new in your Celtic heritage, that you see, hear, or taste (there are some yummy Celtic eats!) – experiences that bring you closer to your Celtic & Gaelic histories.
So, by all means, have a great time and enjoy every minute of this action-packed weekend. Explore a weekend of Celtic heritage in Belfair State Park! Pipers, drummers, dancers, athletes, vendors, musicians, clans, working dogs, theatrical groups, and the Royal British Court celebrating traditional culture.
The Festival organizers would like to thank Ken & Larry for providing security for the festival. Please visit them at their Festival, the Kelso Highland Games on September 9.
FESTIVAL COMMITTEE:
Sue McDonald
Troy McDonald
Bill McDonald
Ron McDonald
ADVISORS:
Scott Lumsden
Red McWilliams
Russ McAdams
Ron Bickle
Linnie Griffin
Joan Moore
Kem Vickery
Chris Skinner
A thousand welcomes from the 2018 HCH Celtic Festival Committee!
"You are welcome, a 1000 times, wherever you come from, whosoever you be."(Gaelic)Tom & Sue McDonald
Tom, for many years, had been asking why there wasn’t a Scottish function on the Peninsula. Then, one year, at his Annual Pig Roast for the Clan Donald, he decided to begin to do just that.
He formed a staff, began talks with the County, and the next year he had his first Festival at the Theler Center in Belfair. Through the years the Festival has progressed, grown larger, offering more interaction with Northwest Clans and Celtic traditions. Tom's main goal was to introduce ourselves to each other and get excited about our Celtic heritage.
Without Tom and his tireless work towards his dream, we would not have achieved the imagery and pageantry our Festival displays today. The Hood Canal Highland Celtic Festival was his baby, born out of his desire to have an event for all the people on the Peninsula.
Thanks, Tom, and Thanks to all of you that support us. Our Festival is the “Legacy of a Legend."
RED MCWILLIAMS – We are privileged to once again welcome Red McWilliams, one of the most recognized names in Celtic music, at the 2018 Hood Canal Highland Celtic Festival. We are thrilled to not only have the pleasure of Red’s music, but this year he will keep things rolling the festival's Master of Ceremonies. Red’s repertoire ranges from ballad to bawdy – historical to hysterical – be sure to take in his performance and you’ll see why the Dallas Morning News said: “A percussive 12 string guitar blended with a rich baritone voice and a
positive attitude has made Red the perfect blend of entertainer, a fact which has been proven to crowds at Scottish games and Irish festivals throughout the USA.”
LORI SEVERSON & BOB HYATT
We are proud to have Lori Severson & Bob Hyatt as our Chieftains of the Festival. Bob is retired and Lori serves the community as treasure of the Rotary Club of North Mason County. Both have been invaluable to us through the years, by running our beer garden, which contributes to the overall success of our Festival.
9:00 AM Gates Open
9:30 Celtic Entertainment begins – Tom’s Stage and Sue’s Stage
Clan Tents and Vendors open
10:00 Welcome by Festival Committee Spokesperson
Athletics Competition begins
Dog Herding Demonstrations begin Seattle Knights performances begin
12:00 Opening Ceremonies
Master of Ceremonies: Red McWilliams; Tacoma Scots Pipe Band
Presentation of the Colors – Russ McAdams and Clan Gregor’s Own Scot Guard
Presentation of the Dignitaries – Scott Lumson
Parade of the Clans
United States National Anthem
Canadian National Anthem
Scottish National Anthem
Lament – Flowers of the Forest
Presentation of the Chieftain of the Games
Proclamation
Recessional
1:00 Celtic Entertainment – Tom’s Stage and Sue’s Stage
Athletic Competitions continue
Dog Herding Demonstrations continue
Seattle Knights Performances continue
5:30 Closing Ceremony
Master of Ceremonies: Red McWilliams; Tacoma Scots Pipe Band
The swing of the kilt and the skirl of the pipes have delighted people for centuries. The grandeur of the pipes has inspired the Scots during times of war and provided entertainment in times of peace. Founded in 1971, the Tacoma Scots Pipe Band performs traditional Scottish music and dance throughout the Pacific Northwest. In highland tradition, each member wears the ancient Sinclair tartan in tribute to our founder and first Pipe Major – William Micenko. The Tacoma Scots play and march under the direction of Pipe Major Scott Lumsden, Drum Major Fauna Wilkinson and Drum Sergeant Paul Micenko. The Tacoma Scots march in parades, compete at Highland Games and perform at a variety of public and private venues. The Scots are honored to serve as the official pipe band to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department. The Scots welcome new and experienced musicians interested in joining the band. Visit www.tspb.org or email pipe_major@ tspb.org
Plateau Scottish Country Dancers
Jim and Pat McDonald have managed the local Scottish dance group in Enumclaw since 2004. Music is an important part of the McDonald household. Their interest and love of Celtic music inspired them to try Scottish dancing and all the aspects of Celtic interests.
MacRae Scottish Highland Dancers
Robin MacRae started dancing at age seven with the encouragement of her grandfather, Angus McLeod. Robin’s dance school teaches historical and national dances and encourages parent involvement in a family atmosphere. All of her students and their families develop lifelong friendships, making priceless memories, while learning to dance!
McPherson Highland Dance
Carol McPherson has been teaching Scottish dancing for decades in the Pacific Northwest. This form of dance is a intricate combination of athleticism and grace, as exemplified in the well-known rendition that this group brings to the Ghillie Calum, the Sword Dance.
Cast in the vein of true Irish pub musicians, the Backwoods Irish have been charming audiences across the Olympic Peninsula with their unique blend of wit and song for some long happy time now. While the members of the group have changes over the years, founder Mike Benson’s Irish family roots have kept the group as firmly planted in Irish music as a pratie – potato for you non-Irish folk – is planted in the dirt. Their repertoire includes Irish, Celtic, sea-faring songs, and just songs they like to sing.
This duo of Ed Abrams and Cathy Gabbey came together two years ago when other bands broke up – a not uncommon way for musicians to find each other. Since then they have been pleasing audiences at area taverns, markets and festivals. Celtic Musings welcomes participation since you are just as much a part of the show as they are. Dance a jig if the spirit moves you – everyone’s Celtic when these two play!
Ian Caldicott and his prize-winning dogs have represented herding principles used by Celtic farmers since Medieval times. Ian and his highly intelligent herding experts will perform demonstrations throughout the weekend. Stop by and observe how man and animal work together to accomplish common goals.
Stop by – bow or curtsy – and say "Hello" to as close as we can come to our past traditions.
The Seattle Knights are a high-octane choreographical stage-combat group of performers, using real weapons, that bring you the best of Medieval history and fantasy. The Knights have performed for schools, businesses, private functions, parades, charities, festivals and renaissance fairs across the United States. For our Festival the Seattle Knights swap armor for kilts and comedy, displaying their skills with rapier and repartee. Join them for mirth and merry mayhem.
Jim and Pat McDonald will be teaching classes throughout the day.
Scottish Country Dancing is an ancestor of American square dance. The Scots, Irish and English all brought forms of country dancing to the new world. The jig, reel, fling, hornpipe, ghillie calum, and strathspey of Scotland were all forms of dance applied in the new country.
Dave Ward will be conducting beginner sessions for Bodhran throughout the day. You may bring your own instrument or Dave will have something for you to play with.
A Celtic fiddler will also be conducting sessions for violin throughout the day.
We are pleased to be blessed with the presence of the Royal Court of Mary Queen of Scots. This re-enactment group of performers will lend a historical perspective of Celtic life under her reign. Her entourage will be holding court in Her Majesty’s Royal Tent throughout the day.
American Legion Marine Corps League – Bremerton
Anderson
Buchanan
Chisholm
Donald
Donnochaidh
Douglas
Gregor
Gunn
Guthrie
Johnston/e
Keith
MacLean
MacGregor
MacKintosh
MacLain
MacLaren
McGregor
McMillian
Maxwell
Muirhead Clan Society
Northwest Cornish Society
Tartan Day Society of Washington
September 1 - 2
Belfair State Park
Scottish field events have been a part of the Highland games for centuries. Some say that the events derive from tests of skill used by Clan chiefs to select the strongest warriors to lead the clansmen into battle. Others believe that these competitions were organized to control brawling and to arouse each rival by displaying strength and skill.
This event is much like the more familiar shot put, except we use a field stone weighing between 17 and 20 pounds. It is ‘put’ from behind a trig, which is a marker log on the ground and the athlete may not cross the trig at any time. It may be put either Braemar (standing) or standard as in regular shot-put fashion.
These ancient weapons come in various sized: 12, 16 and 22 pounds. They are tossed similar to Olympic style, severe rotation imparts momentum to the hammer, then it is released for distance. The differences are mostly to the hammer, that being a heavier head and a PVC pipe handle. The handle is strong and can flex on impact. Some athletes wear special hammer boots with spikes on them to maintain ground contact during rotation.
This event entails hurling a 38 or 56 pound weight as far as possible while maintaining control behind a trig. The athlete spins to gain momentum on the weight then releases it. Women, amateurs and masters use various weights, such as 14, 28, 42, and 56 pound. The principle remains the same.
This event is exactly as named, a 56, 42 or 28 pound weight is tossed up and over a horizontal bar. The athlete can only use one hand and the weight can touch the bar as long as it goes over and does not knock the bar off.
This is the premier Scottish event. The competitor must ‘pick’ a caber, run and toss it, so as to land straight out from him/her as a 12 o’clock position. The Caber is tossed for accuracy not distance. The judge must ‘call it’ just as the stick hits the ground. A side judge will sometimes be used to determine if the caber rotated through 90 degrees. The Cabers range in size from 14 feet, 400 pounds to 20 feet, 130 pounds. The more experienced athletes use the larger sticks.
A&S Jerky
Celtic Moonlighting
Computer Creations
Egg Roll Hut
Elfstone Celtic Jewelry
Explore Hood Canal
Granny Fi's Shortbread
Heritage Distillery
Hood Canal Salmon
Enhancement Group
ILA'S FOODS
Lilla Rose
Lularo
New Life Art Glass
Pet Town (Belfair)
Scottish Country Shop
Sandy's Henna Experience
SnchlSkin
Steelcraft/Legends of Camalot
Wandering Angus Celtic Traders
Scotman Espresso
Scottish Outfitters
Scentsy
Seattle Knights
Wave Cable
Walking Stickers
TOAD-IN-THE-HOLE
½ pound pork link sausages
¾ cup flour
1 ¼ cup milk
2 large eggs
½ cup grated sharp Cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking oil
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a 9-inch ovenproof skillet or deep-dish pie pan, heat the cooking oil and brown the sausages for about 20 minutes. Sift flour and salt into a mixing bowl and stir in the grated cheese. In another bowl, beat milk, eggs, parsley and pepper. Stir a small amount of milk mixture into the flour to make a smooth, very heavy batter and let stand 5 minutes before stirring in remaining milk mixture. Arrange sausages in the skillet/pan and pour the batter over them. Bake until batter is puffed and browned – about 30 minutes.
www.hoodcanalscots.org
Washington Sea Grant research advances
Olympia oyster restoration efforts
Max Showalter, WSG Science Communications FellowThe Olympia oyster — or “Oly” — may be small, but it has played a big role in Washington’s history and culture. As the only oyster native to the region, the Oly once covered vast swaths of the state’s shorelines, and was nutritionally, economically and culturally crucial to indigenous populations for thousands of years. But after Europeans arrived, overfishing and industrial pollution caused the Oly to rapidly decline.
“The story of the Olympia oyster has been almost forgotten,” says Bonnie Becker, associate professor of marine ecology at the University of Washington (UW) Tacoma. “When people ask, ‘why should we restore Olympia oysters?’ there are some strong ecological reasons, but also historical, social and cultural reasons why [restoration] is so important.”
Efforts to restore the iconic species are underway, but the task remains daunting. Modern populations are scattered throughout the Sound and number only five percent of historical levels. Both Becker and UW researcher Steven Roberts are leading separate WSG-funded projects to help overcome the challenges associated with low, disconnected oyster populations. They hope to inform restoration efforts by tracking where oysters move and how they might adapt to various conditions.
Restoration from populations
Oyster restoration can be either passive or active. In passive restoration, ecosystem managers encourage larval oysters to settle in new locations by making the seafloor more desirable. In active restoration, oysters are reared indoors and then transplanted to new parts of the Sound.
To ensure successful active restoration, managers must know which oysters do best under a given set of conditions. For the Oly, that means finding out whether certain populations of oysters are particularly adapted to where they live in the Sound.
Roberts hopes to answer this question by moving oyster populations from one natural bed and rearing them under the conditions of another. The team is looking for adaptive differentiation among Olympias — changes in the oysters’ tolerance to environmental conditions.
“The populations in one embayment might be adapted to warmer temps,” explains Brent Vadopalas, a UW research scientist with the Roberts team. “If you put another population, from a colder environment, in the same embayment, it might not reproduce as well.”
The team sought location-specific differences in oysters from Fidalgo Bay, Hood Canal and South Sound. They saw unexpected results. Although Puget Sound is a small and fairly well-connected place, oysters showed local adaptation, suggesting that populations might not be interacting as much as expected.
“The rate of maturation and the spawn time took us by surprise,” Roberts says. “Irrespective of where they were put, the South Sound oysters spawned earlier by about two weeks.” But the team has some theories about what causes such differences.
Why might the Olympia oyster demonstrate local adaptation over such a small spatial scale? One possible answer is limited population connectivity. Population connectivity measures how often geographically distinct populations interact. For oysters, that means learning how larvae are dispersed and where they settle. “Usually oysters like to settle on other oysters,” says Becker, who investigates patterns of larval movement and settling that drive passive restoration. Understanding such patterns can help resource managers determine where to initiate passive restoration.
Becker, along with graduate student Megan Hintz and collaborators, use the chemical makeup of Olympia shells to learn where a particular larva has been over its lifetime. This process is simplified by the Oly’s unique reproduction method. While most marine bivalves release their eggs to be fertilized within the water column,
Oly parents retain their eggs through early larval stages until they reach a certain maturation milestone. This trait, known as brooding, means it’s easier to pinpoint a location where the larva grew up.
“While the early larva is being brooded inside its mom, its shell is forming. That shell has elements incorporated into it in some proportion to what’s in the environment,” Becker says. This proportion of elements, measured by a technique called elemental fingerprinting, reflects the conditions under which the shell is formed, giving hints to its location. “It’s like a little flight recorder of where that larva has been.”
Becker explains that so far, the elemental fingerprinting approach has been a success in Puget Sound on a regional level. “Determining if oysters are from North Sound, Central Sound or the Strait of Juan de Fuca using the shell chemistry appears to be working,” Becker says. “Having an empirically proven understanding of how far oysters are dispersing will be a great success.”
A bright future for Oly? What will success look like for this team of scientists studying the Olympia oyster? The best outcome for their work is to provide resource managers and organizations focused on bringing back the small oyster with a better restoration toolset.
“We wanted to inform managers regarding what meaningful stock structure exists in Puget Sound, and we wanted to inform restoration practitioners about which populations they should use,” Vadopalas says. “These important restoration decisions are ultimately up to resource managers.”
A success for the Oly is a success for the region, Becker adds. “Having healthy oyster populations is important to how the Sound is functioning.”
As the Olympia oyster shows, good things do come in small packages.
“Matt and Margaret deserve 10 stars...these two are all about their client. They think outside the box and take on challanges as though they are an everyday issue. If you want to sell or buy, don’t go anywhere else. Matt and Margaret went above and beyond in our buying experience to make sure we were happy and taken care of to the nish. Two wonderful professionals in the world of real estate!” - The Dukes
“We were thrilled to have Matt and Margaret as our realtors. They have incredible knowledge and were always there to answer any questions we had. They are a great team working together and it shows in all they do. And most of all, they are really caring people. We highly recommend them.” -The Dunns
October 6 – 7 the Port of Shelton’s Sanderson Field is where you’ll want to be. With the help of over a hundred community organizations, Skookum Rotary stages its annual small town BIG event, OysterFest. The gates open at 10 AM and we hope to see you there.
Since 1982, OysterFest, has been a premier event and economic force in Shelton. Although food is paramount there is much to see and do including entertainment, kids’ hands on activities, marine displays and the regional shucking competition.
The Washington State Seafood Festival or OysterFest is hosted and coordinated by the Skookum Rotary Club of Shelton WA.
Attend OysterFest for the great food, entertainment, beverages and because every dollar spent at the event goes right back into the community. Each OysterFest vendor is supporting a great local cause.
Don’t miss out on the excitement on the Shucking Stage where shuckers compete for the fastest time in the official West Coast Oyster Shucking Championship.
It’s not just great food, beers, wines, or entertainment– exhibits also demonstrate how important clean water is and the on site displays and marine touch tanks allow visitors to get “up close” with a variety of wonderful sea creatures including crabs, starfish, sea cucumbers and limpets.
In addition to the touch tanks there are exhibits on aquaculture, natural resources, and public safety. The Pacific Coast Shellfish Growers Association illustrates a spectrum of issues in their booth including environmental protection, shellfish safety, regulations and provide public information materials and answer questions.
Also on site is the Washington State Department of Health with their Shellfish Program. Their mission is to educate and prevent illness in people who eat shellfish. The Mason County PUD# 3 also provides a display at OysterFest. Stop by their booth for helpful hints to reduce energy use and be safe around electricity.
OysterFest is located on Sanderson Field, 1/2 mile north of Shelton, directly off US Hwy 101. There is plenty of parking as well as weekend camping opportunities.
October 6 10 AM to 6 PM SAT
October 7 10 AM to 5 PM SUN
Hosted at the decommissioned runway at the Shelton Airport, just off Hwy 101 north of Shelton, OysterFest annually attracts 1000's of seafood lovers from all over the Northwest. Camping is available onsite, reserve online at oysterfest.org..
The event features entertainment on two stages, kids activities, community information booths as well as plenty of unique and varied food booths. Great care is taken to not repeat any item so attendees always have plenty of food choices. Dogs are not permitted at the event (with the exception of service animals), Parking is FREE and there is also a FREE shuttle service from a multitude of locations in Shelton.
Admission is $5.00.
Visit explorehoodcanal.com for a list of area lodging. We'll see you at OysterFest!
From a delicate seafood ceviche to corn on the cob – and, of course, fresh local oysters prepared in every way imaginable – there is something for every palate at OysterFest.
Every food vendor is volunteering their time to create delicious bites to support local non-profits. That means every delicious deep fried oyster, coconut shrimp, strawberry shortcake, or serving of Squaxin fry bread with fresh grilled salmon – will give you a burst of karma!
The busiest booth is the coconut shrimp hosted by the Senior Services for South Sound. The succulent shrimp in crunchy crispy coconut are a popular combination and often sold out by mid-day. The group raises funds to help seniors remain healthy and independent in their homes. They also supports seniors with Meals On Wheels, and health and social services. Maybe you should get two orders of coconut shrimp!
Be sure to try the Squaxin Elders salmon & fry bread. Grilled to perfection, moist and fresh, the slab of seasoned salmon perfectly complements the crispy hot fried bread. All the proceeds go to assisting elder members of the Squaxin Island Tribe. (continued next page)
Want
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360-432-5844
Monday through Saturday: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
And yes, amidst the cheesecake, Thai food, clam strips and chowder, burgers and ice cream there are oysters. And plenty of them! If you can imagine it, the folks at OysterFest have probably made it happen –grilled oysters bathed in melted garlic butter; Oysters Rockefeller; deep fried oyster fritters with a tangy ice cold dip; fortifying hearty – burn your tongue– oyster chowder; skewered oysters wrapped in rashes of – well, you get the idea.
A purist when it comes to your oysters? That’s covered too. After all, Mason County is home to the best oysters in the world! Sweet tumbled yearling Pacifics with a fresh cucumber finish and briny liquor or firm kelpy flavored shore harvested two season oyster – check out your shucks at OysterFest! Stop by the raw oyster bar hosted by the Marine Education Science Society (MESS) for some of Hammersley Inlet and Hood Canal’s finest examples. These prized shooters need no dressing – but if you like, splash on a little mignonette—a piquant sauce made with vinegar and shallots, or a squeeze of lemon – both are a perfect balance to the briny, somewhat creamy oysters. Again, go crazy – not only is it good for you – unless your doctor gave you reason to not eat raw seafood – it’s for a
Like shellfish? Then the Washington Shellfish Trail is where to start your next journey. Volunteers are working with folks that grow, cook, and display shellfish to create a trail that you can follow to explore shellfish.
Similar to the wine trails of CA and WA, the trail will bring you from the Columbia River north to the Canadian border and explore not only our oysters, but also clams, geoducks, and mussels. Visit farms, gather your own shellfish off public beaches and attend events that embrace this resource, like OysterFest, the Geoduck Festival in Allyn or the Hama Hama Oyster Rama in Lilliwaup. The Washington Shellfish Trail will guide you on your journey.
Understanding the role of shellfish in our communities is essential to the long term health of our shellfish resources. The Trail will emphasize the interconnectedness of aquaculture within our rural communities and the value of shellfish to our well being. The options are endless and build upon the other Washington trail systems such as the Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway.
All of the stops will have points of interest and opportunities to enhance your adventure. Did you know that the North Bay WDFW property boasts the largest population of Olympia oysters in Puget Sound? This and more will be highlighted features on the Trail.
The Shellfish Trail is funded by the National Sea Grant Program and is being developed by Image In Action Design and Washington Sea Grant. An oversized picture frame is available for you to take commemorative photos of your adventure at key stops. Catch your family shot in this giant frame and tag visit on social media #shellfishtrail. If you are interested in your company or site becoming part of the trail visit shellfishtrail.org.
www.shellfishtrail.org
It looks simple enough – insert, twist, flick, repeat. However, if you’ve ever attempted to shuck an oyster you will know, it’s anything but easy. Just ask around – damage from shucking knives and stubborn oysters is as common as stories of ladder accidents.
Over the course of two days of competition from noon to close contestants vie for the title of the fastest shucker or the best half-shell shucker – or – both titles. The championship in Shelton is a preliminary event to the U.S. shuck-off, the National Oyster Shucking Championship Contest® featuring the fastest men and women shuckers competing for cash prizes. Winners can go on to compete in the International Oyster Festival in Galway, Ireland.
The West Coast Shucking Champion uses more than 6000 oysters. A shucker draws a tray of two dozen oysters by lottery.
As the contest begins, the shuckers hold their knives at head height to indicate readiness. At the signal from the chief judge, the timekeepers start their watches and the contestants begin.
The shuckers rapidly open and place each oyster, completely severed from the shell, on its unbroken half-shell on the tray. The trays are coded and the judges sequestered so that the competition is completely impartial. Speed is paramount on Saturday – with the fastest times coming in under two minutes!
Family owned & operated South Sound Mariculture prides itself on producing premier Northwest oysters & clams. Riding the currents of Hammersley Inlet, our tumble bags roll with the tides, creating perfect oysters that are firm & full-flavored.
Through a unique partnership, our shellfish are available exclusively through Hama Hama Oyster Co. and are featured in restaurants all over the world.
We are pleased to support the Marine Education Science Society touch tanks at OysterFest in Shelton (October 6-7). Join us in sponsoring marine education at events and in our classrooms by purchasing locally harvested oysters on the half shelf. We’re proud to be a small farm in South Puget Sound.
Fjordin Crossin in Hoodsport, June 23, was a fun event for all who attended. It included a non-motorized marine race across the fjord (www.hoodcanalevents.com) while Hardware Distillery's (www.hardwaredistillery.com) barrel of dill aquavit made the annual crossing on Lee Geist's, Twanoh. On shore attendees enjoyed a aquavit garden, vendors and kids activities.
GIFT SHOPPING? Check out the beautiful handmade (in Hoodsport by a master craftsman) silver and gold earrings and pendants available at Octopus Gallery on Hwy 101. They even have custom designed geoduck earrings!
The Quilcene Historical Museum is poised to unveil the Worthington Mansion and the spectacular restoration efforts , September 16.
The Mason County Historical Society
Museum welcomes Mayumi Tsutakawa on August 26 who will speak on her family's ordeal 75 years ago with Executive Order 906. Those born in Japan, as well as their American-citizen offspring, were sent to concentration camps without due process. www.masoncountyhistoricalsociety.org
Looking for delicious sweets, savories and artistic inspiration? The Craft Pie & Art Bar recently opened in Shelton at 118 S 3rd St.
2018 Forest Festival Parade in Shelton had 84 entries! It's time to start rounding up some volunteers and plan 75th Anniversary Forest Festival Events. Interested? Next meeting Wednesday, September 5 at 5:30 PM at Roosters Restaurant in Shelton.
Craft's first Whiskey and Pie Tasting event sold out! Congratulations, Mo and Tom!
Kudos to the Forest Festival Royalty and their families and volunteer drivers and organizers!
In July they won the AK Airlines Seafair Torchlight Parade Animation Award and the Queen's Award at Lake Fair in Olympia.
August 26 – 3 PM Paint a custom pint glass and no one will have a glass like yours. Cost is $35, Ticket includes supplies, and instruction. Congratulations! Bent Bine Brew Co. recognized in Washington Beer Awards Seattle Met Magazine, June 2018. www.bentbine.com.
Olympic Mountain Ice Cream pints are now available at Ralph’s Thriftway and Spuds Produce in Olympia! Look for more outlets soon as they have just started selling these five delicious and popular flavors to grocery stores! YUM.
Check out the first annual Hoodstock Music & Art Festival in the Skokomish Valley, August 17-19. Visionaries, Shannon Crabb-Stanton, Kelli Kohout and Meghan Maes have taken their love for Hood Canal to task by living their mission of "Creativity, Expression and Community." Living in one of the most concentrated areas of artists and musicians in the world, the women are determined to showcase this talent. Each year they plan to feature a community project to raise funds for. This year they will support The Salmon Center Amphitheater Project and The McReavy House. Find more info and ways you can be involved at www.hoodstock.org.
September 8 the Quilcene community hosts their annual Fair and Parade. If you missed the belt Sander Races at Shrimpfest (canceled for 2018) head to Quilcene to participate (noon - First Heat, Finals - 3 PM). Don't miss the parade (11 AM Hwy 101); the Alaska-Caught Salmon BBQ Lunch to benefit the Booster Club; vendors (9 AM to 4 PM); motorcycle and car show (near Quilcene School, noon to 4 PM); live music in the afternoon; and the arts, crafts and photography show, (noon to 4 PM).
You still have lots of time to create your entries including paintings and drawings, pottery, fibre art, quilts, carving, woodworking, and other art work. Submission is 3 PM to 6 PM on September 7. The Silent Auction includes a tour for 10-15 of the Dabob Taylor Shellfish facility with a specially prepared seafood dinner! And the logging truck load of logs? YES, just $5 enters you! Information and forms – quilcenefair.com.
Quilcene Parade
September 8 @ 11 AM
The Girl Scout Camp, Robbinswold on Hood Canal doubles the population of Lilliwaup in the Summer with visitors from all over the world to enjoy our Fjord. www.girlscoutsww.org
See lots of cyclists circling the Canal recently? It may have been Cascade's annual Ride Around Washington (RAW) which featured stops in Seabeck, Potlatch, Hama Hama and Brinnon in early August. How do 200+ cyclists charge their electronics each night? Check out the charging table above!
Local artist Brianne Waite created a fun and incredible new map of the Hood Canal area for the Union City Market, stop by for fresh oysters, candy and great Canal decorating goodies and check out the new outdoor art piece! www.unioncitymarket.com
It was record hot temps for events around the Canal and in South Puget Sound this summer, but vendors like Melanie Bakala State Farm Insurance at Allyn Days on Case Inlet kept attendees hydrated with free water and chilled cooling cloths! Thanks Dylan!
Congratulations 2018 Shelton Expo Best Booth winner Maple Glen Senior Living and Golden Fork winner Smoking Mo's.
Kayak Brinnon owner and biologist, Christine Maloney has been sharing her passion for kayaking on the Canal since 2007. Never tried kayaking? Start here with knowledgeable and patient guides who will open your world to a whole new way to see wildlife on the fjord. Company visiting? Christine and her husband deliver on the Canal. www.kayakbrinnon.com
For the third consecutive year, a bloom of Coccolithiphores in Hood Canal transformed the waters into a turquoise hue thanks to a bloom of microscopic phytoplankton plated with white calcium carbonate. This year, the colorization has appeared earlier: It was recorded on July 13, 2016 and again on July 23, 2017. This year, the color of much of Hood Canal has been noticeable since June 13. The blue tone has been described in one scientific journal as appearing due to Hood Canal’s “warm, stratified waters with limited nutrients” and water levels that do not mix well. Preliminary findings do not consider it a concern for swimmers, boaters or for the consumption of shellfish or fish.
The deep, extensive forests of the Olympic Peninsula hide secrets. As the ancient coelacanth, a fish found in fisherman’s nets off of the coast of South Africa in 1938, or the chance discovery of the brilliantly bioluminescent megamouth shark (Megachasma pelagios) hooked upon a US Navy’s ships anchor in 1976, document --- the natural world still holds mysteries.
Before actual specimens of these species were found stories abounded about their existence, but proof was necessary to take these animals from the realm of cryptid to the empirical world. Cryptozoology is a term coined in the 1950s by Bernard Heuvelman, a French-Belgian biologist, used to describe the discipline responsible for documenting cryptids or “animals of unexplained form or size, or unexpected occurrence in time or space.”
The search for these cryptids or “hidden animals” has included research in to the Loch Ness Monster (Nessie) of Scotland, the Abominable Snowman or Yeti of the Himalayas, and the Lake Champlain monster (or Champ). More locally there are reports of sea serpents (often known as the Cadborosaurus) in the waters of the Salish Sea and Puget Sound and the Ogopogo lake monster of British Columbia’s Lake Okanagan. Another famous cryptid found across North America is the Bigfoot, or more locally, the Sasquatch.
Washington State has the highest instance of direct sightings in the United States of creatures meeting the description of Sasquatch or "Bigfoot." Recorded by the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization (BFRO), Pierce County takes the lead with total number of listings, with Snohomish and Skamania following close behind. After a series of sightings and findings of foot prints and other evidence, Skamania famously passed a law in 1969 that forbade the “willfull and wanton slaying” of a Sasquatch. Such action would be considered a felony and punishable by a hefty fine of $10,000 and jail time. This punishment has since been reduced to $500 and only six months in jail, but the endurance of this legislation demonstrates that the Sasquatch is still considered real enough to protect.
Indigenous people throughout the Pacific Northwest describe in their oral history and legends various versions of a Sasquatch-like-creature that is often characterized as a malevolent trickster responsible for stealing children and women. The Kwakwaakaa’wakw of Northern Vancouver Island, British Columbia, tell stories
of Dsonoqua—or the Wild Woman of the Woods—who makes the noise of the wind “ooh-ing” through the trees and lures away children. These stories may or may not be cultural traditions documenting the Sasquatch.
Sasquatch has been described as a large, hairy, up-right walking, hominid-like creature, often accompanied by a strong stench. The Sasquatch is often identified by strange “eerie” calls such as whoops and screams. Additionally, it is famous for its large footprints. Usually, these encounters are reported as non-aggressive but they often induce incredible fear and a feeling of unease in the witness and there are reports of Sasquatches breaking large branches and throwing rocks.
Many a campfire is made spookier by tales of the supernatural Sasquatch. Stemming from this, there is a new kind of tourism on the rise—cryptotourism. Professionally led expeditions are orchestrated by organizations such as the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization (BFRO) (www.bfro.net) and the Olympic Project (www.olympicproject.com/expeditions) to systematically search for evidence of the Sasquatch in areas of high reports. Usually, participants on these expeditions are taught in the field how to take accurate casts of footprints, make sound recordings, conduct surveys, as well as how to collect uncontaminated samples of hair and feces.
"About one-third of all claims of Bigfoot sightings are located in the Pacific Northwest."
"The endurance of this legislation demonstrates that the Sasquatch is still considered real enough to protect."Artist and author, Emily Carr's D'Sonoqua, v. 1912 aquarelle sur papier carton (75,9 cm x 42,2 cm) British Columbia Archives; described in her account in Klee Wyck (1941).
The term Sasquatch is an anglicized version of the Coast Salish word Sesquac or Saskehavas meaning ‘Wild man of the Woods.’ This is just one name for this creature found on the Pacific Northwest. There is a strong cultural tradition among various Indigenous groups in the Pacific Northwest describing a large, hairy, human-like creature that lives in the mountains.
According to David George Gordon, author of The Sasquatch Seeker’s Field Manual (2015), mainstream researchers do not have access to the grants or time needed to properly assess the Sasquatch question, so like the Christmas Bird Count miraculously organized by Cornell every winter, volunteer, amateur scientists, or ‘citizen scientists,’ are the only hope to document evidence of the Sasquatch.
Training citizen scientists through organized expeditions is one way to further research and cover more ground. Additionally, these organizations file reports of Sasquatch sightings, lending us a powerful tool to create your own self-guided, cryptotour of the Olympic Peninsula.
Make sure you pack a good camera in the hopes you spot some unusual wildlife. As well, bring a friend or two as the more witnesses the more credible your evidence will be. Below are two top areas to look for Sasquatch activity in around Hood Canal from the BFRO’s list of Bigfoot reports.
Jarell Cove State Park and Harstine Island area
• Report of an actual sighting in 2005
• Recent increase reports of hearing the calls of Sasquatches
Big Creek Campground & Lake Cushman area
• Report from hikers on Big Creek Trail of hearing the calls, smelling the stench and seeing oddly broken branches in 2010
• Multiple reports of hearing calls of Sasquatches in the Lake Cushman area
• Two reports of actual sightings in the Lake Cushman area from 2006.
Youth Chorale
Haydn “The Creation” Holiday Term
Tuesdays, 4:00 -5:30 PM, 9/11–12/12/2018
New Community Church of Union
951 E Dalby Road, Union
The Great Bend Youth Chorale welcomes children ages 6-14 at all levels of skill and interest. Through games, story-telling, movement and more, youth choristers are introduced to the fundamentals of choral technique and the joys of making music together. Participants in fall term will prepare sections of Haydn’s oratorio “The Creation” telling the tale of the seven days of creation, and a holiday program. $125
Haydn “The Creation” Holiday Term
Tuesdays, 6:30 -9:15PM, 9/11–12/12/2018
New Community Church of Union
951 E Dalby Road, Union
The Great Bend Chorale is a community ensemble open to all, age 14 and older, regardless of skill level or training. Members of the Chorale prepare programs that are performed regionally in collaboration with professional teaching artists to showcase Mason County’s rich arts history and attract cultural visitors while enriching the musical opportunities for all in our home community. In the fall of 2018 the Chorale will prepare Haydn’s oratorio “The Creation” for performance with members of the Pacific Northwest Ballet orchestra in Seattle and Shelton, and will make its Carnegie Hall debut in May of 2019. $100
Classical BFFs - Haydn & Mozart
Wednesdays, 4:00 -5:30 PM, 9/12–10/17/2018
at St. David of Wales Episcopal Church
324 W Cedar Street, Shelton
They probably met in Vienna during Christmas of 1783 when both participated in a holiday concert. By the end of 1784 they were fast friends in spite of some enormous differences. One was reserved, organized and old-fashioned. The other was mercurial and outgoing. The elder was badly married, while the younger was famously and happily wed to his beloved Constanze. But the puckish sense of humor in Haydn’s music, and the structural ingenuity present in Mozart’s earliest work, made the friendship inevitable despite their 24-year age difference.
Through their string quartets, symphonies, masses, operas and oratorios, we’ll eavesdrop on a centuries-old musical dialogue between the classical period’s most famous BFFs. $85
Wednesdays, 6:30 -8:00 PM, 9/12–10/17/2018
St. David of Wales Episcopal Church
324 W Cedar Street, Shelton
An introduction to reading choral music including not only the basics of notation, rhythm and pitch; but background also on the evolution of the current voicings within the choir and each singer’s place within it. The class is both lecture and practice and is appropriate for beginners and as a refresher for seasoned singers. $85
I Will Lift Mine Eyes – An exploration of new music in the choral world.
Wednesdays, 4-5:30pm, 10/24–12/5/2018
St. David of Wales Episcopal Church
324 W Cedar Street, Shelton
So just in time for the Christmas concert season, we’ll explore the music of these choral rock stars as a field guide to the holiday performance season with specific recommendations for *must hear* programs and ensembles from Portland to Seattle. $85
Wednesdays, 6:30-8:00 PM, 10/24–12/5/2018
St. David of Wales Episcopal Church
324 W Cedar Street, Shelton
Singing the right note at the right time is only the beginning of great choir singing. Layered on top of the basics of pitch and rhythm are the many differences of color, diction, support and articulation (or line). In this class, students will gently explore the capabilities of their voice, while also learning how to cultivate stamina and a healthy tone appropriate for any style of group singing. $85
To register for these classes or to learn more, visit greatbendmusic.org.
The Olympic, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie and Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forests have prepared a draft Record of Decision (ROD) for the Mountain Goat Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
The draft ROD proposes to authorize actions necessary for implementation of Alternative D of the Final EIS prepared by the Olympic National Park. Alternative D allows the Park to proceed with this effort to reduce the mountain goat population in the Olympic Mountains by relocating them to the National Forests in the North Cascades and lethally removing the remaining goats from the Olympic National Park and the Olympic National Forest.
The U.S. Forest Service is serving as a cooperating agency on this project with the National Park Service and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Mountain goats are not native to the Olympic Mountains but are native to the Cascades where they exist in low numbers. Moving goats to the Cascades will increase population diversity for the animals as well as provide them more preferred habitat.
The public is invited to submit objections on the draft ROD over a 45-day period. Those that submitted comments during the previous designated comment period have standing to object. Objections should be submitted to Objection Reviewing Officer, Region 6 Regional Forester, Pacific Northwest Region, USDA Forest Service, 1320 SW 3rd Avenue, Portland, OR 97204.
Electronic submissions may be submitted by completing the form available online: https://cara.ecosystem-management.org/ Public//CommentInput?Project=49816
The Pacific Northwest Region of the USDA Forest Service is announced the launch of a new Region-wide Recreation Mobile app: the Pacific Northwest Forests app. The specialized software program will help the public find trails, camping, picnicking, boating areas, and more by using their cell phones’ GPS capabilities.
National Forests in the Pacific Northwest receive over 15App icon visual million visits each year and recreation users contribute hundreds of millions of dollars to the local economies of both Oregon and Washington annually. According to Regional Forester Jim Peña, the Forest Service is focused on providing great visitor experiences in partnership with these local communities.
“We heard people want more mobile-friendly ways of getting their hiking, camping and other recreation information," reports Peña, "and this delivers just that.”
This mobile app allows visitors to easily discover recreational opportunities near them and serves as a complement to the Forest Service’s traditional website by providing a new way of connecting people to the outdoors.
Improving access to recreation opportunities and providing great customer service are top priorities for the Forest Service. According to Chris Bentley, Digital Media Specialist for the Pacific Northwest Region, nearly half of the people using the Forest Service website are visiting on mobile devices.
Having all the recreation information in one convenient place helps meet both priorities. The first of its kind on this scale in the agency, the mobile app is centered on a mapping
interface that helps adventurers become more familiar with recreation opportuni ties near them by providing information about the 17 national forests and scenic area in the Pacific Northwest. Having all the recreation information within a single app means just one download instead of an individual app for every national forest people are interested in visiting.
“That’s one of the major reasons why providing our region-wide recreational information in a mobile app is so important,” said Bentley. “Many of our forests are adjacent to one another."
fires, current conditions of road and trail access, and photo galleries to showcase beautiful areas in the Region to give ideas for new places to visit.
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.
THINGS TO DO FALLS TO FISHING
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MAP/LODGING SHELTON & KAMILCHE 40
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.
MAP/LODGING HOOD CANAL AREA
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Everyday, people come to Hood Canal to disconnect from their day-to-day, and reconnect with themselves, families, and with nature. Most will leave wishing they had just a little more time to stay.
HOOD CANAL IS WASHINGTON’S WILD SIDE. And it’s here for you, when you’re ready to discover yours.
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.
Hamma Hamma & Lake Kokanee are just two of the many Falls waiting to be explored. The best time to view area waterfalls is in the spring while the weather is warmer but there is still plenty of run off from the mountains.
Soaring 420' above the Skokomish River, the High Steel Bridge (1929), is the highest steel truss arch bridge in Washington. You won’t event need to leave the car for this breathtaking view. Follow Skokomish Valley Rd 11 miles from Hwy 101 to reach the bridge.
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.
World-class hiking trails lace the Olympic Mountain wilderness, leading from mountain stream beds through old growth forest to high-altitude ridgelines with breathtaking views of Hood Canal and beyond.
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.
You can do the loop tasting farm-to-table dining experiences—pairing with stops at the best tasting rooms in the northwest.
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.
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 picturesque landscape
Mason County is shadowed by amazing heights! From easy day hikes with the family to overnights or “experience needed” excursions – you don’t have to go far for spectacular memories!
PHOTO: TOBY TAHJA-SYRETT
Meticulously nestled in the forests and hillsides of Hood Canal, these highly rated courses will showcase the best of your golf game. Enjoy incredible views of the Olympic Mountains as you drive down lush fairways and putt on pristine greens. With a different course to play every day of the week and dining nearby to celebrate the 19th hole, Hood Canal is an ideal destination for the golfing enthusiast in all of us.
ALDERBROOK
(360) 898-2560 | Union, WA alderbrookgolf.com
Rated as one of the top 25 courses in the Northwest for spectacular scenery and playability, this par 72 course follows the natural contours of the land. Restaurant, lounge & Proshop.
LAKE CUSHMAN
(360) 877-5505 | Hoodsport, WA lakecushmangolfcourse.com
Nestled in the forest of the Olympic Mountains above Hoodsport & Hood Canal is this 9-hole course with dual tees which plays an 18 holes. Open driving range, putting green, and practice bunker.
LAKE LIMERICK
(360) 426-6290 | Shelton, WA lakelimerick.com
A quiet and picturesque course surrounded by fir trees. The gentle hills make this a challenging and fun round of golf. Facilities include a restaurant and pro shop.
LAKELAND VILLAGE
(360) 275-6100 | Allyn, WA lakelandliving.com
Majestic views of the Olympics and Rainier, 27 holes with driving ranges, putting greens, practice chipping, and bunker areas. Dining clubhouse.
SALISH CLIFFS
(360) 462-3673 | Kamilche, WA salish-cliffs.com
Salmon-safe 18 hole par 72 championship golf course created by architect Gene Bates. Clubhouse serves lunch and dinner. Adjacent to the Little Creek Casino Resort, a full service luxury resort & casino.
SHELTON SPRINGS DISC
masoncountydiscgolf.com
Looking for a different type of golf? This 18 hole disc golf course is located at the intersection of Wallace Kneeland Blvd & Shelton Springs Rd.
ITINERARY 1: UNION AND THE WATERS OF SOUTH HOOD CANAL
TAKE A DIP
Famous for its warm waters, Twanoh State Park is a 182 acre park with 3,167 feet of saltwater shoreline. Campground is open yearround. parks.wa.gov
DEEP RUN THE WATERS
Hood Canal is the only saltwater fjord in the lower United States. Depths exceed 600’ in Dabob Bay, averaging 500’ in the channel.
SAIL ABOARD THE PLEIADES
Experience an authentic schooner as you sail around the Great Bend. Scheduled and private charters available.
HUNT FOR TREASURES
Pick through a treasure trove of antiques or a curated boutique of keepsakes when you shop on the wild side of Washington.
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Hood Canal is known among scuba divers worldwide for its gentle currents and curious rock formations. Lessons and equipment are available at various locations in Hood Canal.
With a majestic and varied landscape as a background, 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 with helpful self-guided trail maps, this is a birder's paradise!
There is endless entertainment to be enjoyed in Hood Canal. With a packed event calendar, there is never an inopportune time to come, stay, and play.
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 wild octopi while providing habitat to an array of seabirds. There's hardly a better way to take it all in than on the water.
FOREST ROOTS
Explore SHELTON HISTORICAL MUSEUM, early life on Puget Sound, Hood Canal, and working in the woods.
MARKET WATCH
A lively Saturday Market and boutique & antique shops add diversity.
GET YOUR RACE ON
The RIDGE MOTORSPORTS PARK hosts events and karting, car, and motorcycle events.
WALKING TOURS
Grab a map at the RED CABOOSE and wander historical neighborhoods.
WINERY TOUR
Visit the highly awarded WALTER DACON WINERY for tours and tastings
FIRST
the People of the Water’s relationship with Puget Sound.
DO A
ALLYN
Waterfront park features gazebo and lawns, play area, and beach access. NO FEE/PASS
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
HARSTINE ISLAND TRAIL
300 acres to explore EASY 1.5 mile, beach NO FEE/PASS
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. NO FEE/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
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
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
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
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
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
HAMA HAMA STORE
Beach access & parking, seasonal outdoor Oyster Saloon and fresh seafood market.
EAGLE CREEK
Beach access & parking across from Eagle Creek Saloon. NO FEE/PASS
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: Befair-Tahuya Rd to Dewatto Rd, 4 miles.
SERVICES AT PORT OF DEWATTO CAMPGROUND
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
HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER
TO GO: Located just off Hwy 101 in Hoodsport – information, handouts, maps PASSES FOR PURCHASE
SkokomishValleyRd
VISITOR CENTER/ BELFAIR LICENSING
TO GO: On Hwy 3 in Belfair PASSES FOR PURCHASE Park/ vehicle/vessel/fishing/hunting northmasonchamber.com
DALBY
WATERWHEEL
TO GO: SR#106
MCCREAVY HOUSE
Built in 1890
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.
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 tours 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 octopi, wolf eels and swarms of ancient rock cod add to the wonder of this special place. SNORKEL GEAR & SCUBA LESSONS, RENTALS AND CHARTERS available.
CUSHMAN, ELDON, HOODSPORT, POTLATCH & LILLIWAUP
A CUT ABOVE
The largest chainsaw carving outlet, BEAR IN A BOX is a great place to explore this unique art. They also teach chainsaw carving.
WATERFRONT WANDERINGS
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.
GET YOUR ART ON Annually, Fair Harbor Marina hosts the WATER AND ART FESTIVAL, a day-long event featuring entertainment, food and working artists. grapeviewwa.com
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.
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. thelercenter.org
SALMON STRONG
THE SALMON CENTER provides environmental education and recreation opportunities through a series of collaborative activities at their certified organic farm and throughout the area. pnwsalmoncenter. org
TAHUYA STATE FOREST hosts off road vehicles, bike, and horseback riding, as well as fishing, hunting; RVs or tent camping. dnr.wa.gov
Situated on the southernmost point of the isthmus connecting the Kitsap and Olympic Peninsulas, Belfair is the perfect place to begin an adventure. Whether you're headed north to explore Dewatto and Tahuya or plan to follow the Canal through Union, and Hoodsport, the journey begins here.
BELFAIR STATE PARK
AUGUST 11, 2018 –Taste of Hood Canal tasteofhoodcanal.com
SEPTEMBER 1, 2018 – Hood Canal Highland Celtic Festival hoodcanalscots.org
HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER
150 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport, WA (360) 877-2021 | (800) 576-2021
NORTH MASON CHAMBER VISITOR CENTER
30 NE Romance Hill Rd, Belfair, WA (360) 275-4267 | northmasonchamber.com
SHELTON VISITOR CENTER
The Red Caboose at 230 Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA (360) 426-2021
UNION VISITOR INFORMATION
Located at Hunter Farms, E 1921 SR 106, Union, WA
KAMILCHE VISITOR CENTER
31 West State Route 108, Kamilche, WA (360) 432-0921
RIDE FREE IN MASON COUNTY
From ferries in Seattle to trailheads in Hood Canal, Mason Transit offers free rides – masontransit.org
Eagle Creek
Flat beach exposed when tide is out. Warm enough for swimming in summer months. Beach access & parking pull off areas across from Eagle Creek Saloon.
Lilliwaup Bay
Stairway to beach at north opening of Lilliwaup Bay. Overnight RV camping permitted; no restrooms.
Port of Hoodsport
Public dock with beach access on Hwy 101. Picnic areas and restrooms nearby. Close to dining,grocery and shopping.
Potlatch Beach
425-acre park with 5,500 feet saltwater shoreline and 5,400 feet of freshwater shoreline on each side of the Dosewallips River. Park activities include picnicking, shellfish gathering, camping, and hiking on 5 miles of trails. Park Pass required.
One of the few national forest campgrounds located on salt water with harvestable oysters for public use.
Belfair State Park
Nice beaches for walking and exploring with good summer water temperatures. Restrooms, camping and picnic facilities.
Twanoh
Excellent camping, swimming, and picnic sites, shellfish harvesting.
Menard’s Landing
Expansive beach (at low tide) with panoramic views southward to the Skokomish River Valley. Restrooms and picnic tables. Stream bisects county park.
Longest stretch of public beach in Mason County, popular for clamming and oysters and photography. Park has camping, picnic tables, restrooms. Great for picnics and swimming, requires Park Pass.
Hunter Farms - Tourist info (and ice cream!).
Walker Park
Beach access, playground, restrooms, picnic shelter and basketball court. Plenty of parking, close to Shelton. Take Olympic Hwy to Arcadia Rd, take Left on Walker Park Rd, Park is on right. No shellfish harvest.
Community park offers beach access, a picnic area and portable restroom. Popular with kayakers, fishermen and residents. Located on SR-3 at the south end of Allyn.
Allyn Waterfront Park features outdoor gazebo, expansive green lawns, gardens, restrooms, play area and beach access with public boat launch. Beach access parking SR-3 on the north end of Allyn.
Prepare yourself with buckets, boots, license and check the tides & harvest map. Local State Parks support a healthy stock of clams and oysters for license holders – free for the taking! 46
Beach access onto marshy estuary. Best at low tide. Popular for bird watching and salmon observing/fishing. Archaeological remains found nearby date 600 years back. Parking pullout along Hwy 101 near Mile Marker 356 and Old Olympic Hwy; near Kennedy Creek interpretative trail.
106-acre camping park on an island reachable only by boat. Old-growth forests and saltwater marshes, features a 1.5 mile long beach. Great destination for kayakers and boaters.
The long, warm and sunny days of summer on or near Hood Canal have nearly come to a close once again. The camping, biking, hiking and water sports we enjoyed will soon be recent yet unforgettable memories. Fall is about to surround us with a beautiful mosaic of rich yellows, greens, and reds as the leaves of hardwood trees give way to their wonderful ballet of fall colors.
However, the changing of the seasons does not bring an end to outdoor activities around Hood Canal. To many it is the beginning of a new and exciting chapter of outdoor opportunity and adventure.
Salmon and Steelhead can be found in most of the pristine rivers of the Olympic Peninsula where a true trophy and adventure of a life time await those who are willing to test their skills and moxy to harvest some of this plentiful bounty. Steelhead are different than their cousins the salmon in the fact they can return to their home rivers several times and spawn many times before they reach the end of their life cycles whereas pacific salmon only spawn once. Steelhead are a species of rainbow trout that is spawned in a river and then goes out to saltwater to mature. Their life in the nutrient rich waters of the Pacific Ocean allow them to grow rapidly and reach over 30 lbs in weight.
Mushroom gathering it also very popular and several delicious varieties await those who know where to find them. Many lakes in the surrounding area are open year round for fishing and can provide healthy delicious protein.
If any of this entices you, you are not alone. Thousands of outdoor enthusiasts will make the trek to this area to do everything I've mentioned and more. Will you be one of them? Do you want to but aren’t sure how? I suggest come in to verse’s sporting goods in Shelton where I and a knowledgeable staff work hard to make your experience and adventure the absolute best it can be. We hope to see you soon.
Established in 1948 Verles is celebrating 70 years of having a finger on the pulse of the Hood Canal and most things outdoors. With a skilled staff and a great selection of gear, Verles is there to help you get away and be successful in your outdoor adventure any time of the year. Verles is located at 741 West Golden Pheasant Road in Shelton.
Road and trail running may both have "run" in the name but comparing time and challenges between the two is akin to comparing oysters with clams. The obstacles present on trail, and the variation in the grade make holding a consistent pace impossible. What these events do have in common is they all celebrate the natural beauty of the fjord & help support great causes that benefit our communities!
Sunday, September 16
151 E. Columbia Street, Quilcene $60/$40/$30 quilraces.com to register
Run or walk the Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K races that wind through the forests and farmland overlooking Quilcene Bay. Race routes cross the Little Quilcene River (with salmon spawning below), and pass by hood Canal views. Race proceeds benefit Quilcene-Brinnon Dollars for Scholars, which provides scholarships to high school seniors and college undergrads, and Count Me In For Quilcene, a non-profit dedicated to enhancing the Quilcene community.
The races begin and end at Worthington Park, site of the newly restored Victorian-era Worthington Mansion. Stop by the mansion and check out the amazing work
a team of skilled volunteers has done to restore it and attend a free concert featuring Joy in Mudville (Roots Rock/ Americana band). And check out the 2018 Jefferson County Farm Tour!
Complimentary serving of local oysters and craft beer (21+) for participants. Details at www.QuilRaces.com. Half Marathon and 10K are USATF sanctioned and certified. Great scenery, awesome volunteers, and support for good causes make this a "can'tmiss" event!
Saturday, September 29
Skokomish Park , Lake Cushman 7211 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport $39/$49 hoodcanalevents.com to register
The Traveler Trail Run celebrates the end of summer on Hood Canal and supports the Olympic National Park. The race will be hosted along the trails of Skokomish Park Lake Cushman a recreational area that borders the Olympic Mountain range and covers over 500 acres with 41,500 feet of freshwater shoreline on Lake Cushman.
Packet Pick-up will be available on Friday September 28, 2018 between 5 PM-7 PM at The Hardware Distillery, 24210 US Hwy 101, Hoodsport, WA. 98548.
Beat the rush, grab race details and a bite & taste some amazing local spirits while socializing with other participants. If you are unable to attend the early packet pick-up, packet pick-up will be available on race day Saturday, September 29, 2018 between 8:30 AM-9:30 AM. Participants receive race bib, timing chip and goodies from sponsors, as well as a locally prepared bite and cold beer or n/a beverage at the finish line. Register online at hoodcanalevents.com.
Lower Big Quilcene Trail is a 6.2 mile trail located near Quilcene, Washington that features a river. The trail is good for all skill levels offers a number of activity options. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. www.alltrails.com
Sunday, October 7 | 8:00 AM
Huff and Puff Trail, Shelton
$25/$30 (15 years +) register pud3.org/run
Get your appetite revved up for more oysters! The 5K Run coincides with the Washington State Seafood Festival –OysterFest! All profits support Project Share, an assistance program helping hundreds of low-income families with their electric bills.
Registrations receive a swag bag which includes race day socks and an OysterFest ticket. Register by July 31st to guarantee socks! Race Day Registration $30.00, registration 6:30 - 7:30 AM. If you have questions about the Shuck & Share 5K Run, contact Wendi or Diane at PUD 3 at 360-426-8255.
It’s always something of a miracle. With brews in hand (and perhaps a few glasses of wine or a cocktail) friends and strangers come together to croon song after song together for more than two hours, once a month, at Alderbrook Golf Club House. Whether it’s The Beatles, Billy Joel, Carpenters, 60s Folk Music, or John Denver, the monthly gatherings of the Olympic Mountain Beer Choir are family-friendly fun for all.
Started in 2014 in St. Paul, Minnesota, Beer Choir is a national movement to encourage connections between strangers in the time-honored way of singing together while downing a few pints. Michael Engelhardt, a composer and conductor in St. Louis, was noodling about ways to get more people singing together. As he’s also a champion of craft beers, he connected with a friend about together they scheduled the first Beer Choir Twin Cities at St. Paul’s Summit Brewery – to which more than 500 people showed up! Three years later, Hood Canal’s Great Bend Center for Music launched the Olympic Mountain chapter of Beer Choir and our local group has been off and running ever since.
ABBA Beer Choir
Friday, September 14, 6-8 PM
OktoberFest Beer Choir
Friday, October 12, 6-8 PM
Rocky Horror Picture Show Beer Choir
Friday, October 26, 7 PM
ALDERBROOK GOLF CLUB
Just south of Shelton, traffic slows as motorists approach Taylor Town. Here you will find one of Mason County’s Hidden Gems – The Skyline Drive-In, one of only five remaining drive-in movie theaters in Washington State; one of less than 300 left nationwide in America.
During its first season, Beer Choir *rehearsals* have been held at Smoking Mo’s BBQ in Shelton and the Hardware Distillery in Hoodsport. But the group has recently settled into a core monthly schedule at the Alderbrook Golf Clubhouse which is better suited to the growing attendance –though the group is still scheduling supplemental *rehearsals* wherever its invited. After its current renovations, the organizers also hope to return to the al fresco cinema setting at Union City Market to resume last year’s Beer Choir Movie Musical Singalong nights!
In the coming months, the Olympic Mountain Beer Choir will host gatherings celebrating the music of ABBA, 60s Folk Music and of course, an obligatory Christmas caroling event. You can find the complete schedule at greatbendmusic.org, by liking the group’s Facebook page (https://www. facebook.com/OlympicBeerChoir/), or at ExploreHoodCanal.com.
330 E Country Club Drive East, Union 50
The inspiration of friends Fred Thibodeau and Fred Hendry, Navy Shipyard workers from Bremerton, the theatre was opened in May 1964 to great excitement. Just off Hwy 101, the theatre accommodated over 350 cars and featured a full service concession stand including a “surprisingly good” burger. The theater quickly became a key location to take your date or your whole family – depending on the film. The opening night movie was Disney’s Lady and the Tramp proceeded by the cartoon Billy Budd.
After work each day the two Freds headed to Shelton to run the theater seven days a week. Apart from a period of steamy adult movies in the 70’s, awkwardly remembered by local residents, the theater has showed feature films for over fifty years and routinely celebrate classics including a decade plus tradition of the annual showing of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Attendees at a feature presentation of Grease dressed the part and gathered their classic cars for the showing.
In 2005 Dorthea and Christopher Mayes purchased the Drive-In from Thibodeau promising to take care of “his baby.” “We are committed to continuing the distinctly American tradition of double features,” claimed Mayes in a recent Olympian article, “kids in their pajamas in the back seat as families watch movies under the stars.”
Five years ago the theater nearly was shut down when it was forced to modernize its screen from 35 millimeter film to digital.
With a $80,000 price tag the modernization seemed almost impossible for the small theater. However, thanks to a robust Kickstarter campaign with local fundraisers as well as donations from as far away as Sweden, the funds were raised in the “nick” of time and the theater was saved. “(The theater) is a monumental part of our community,” reported Jake Luplow, a local reporter, “it allows for the ‘old’ to be renewed within each and every one of us.”
Apart from being a novel and nostalgic experience, the Skyline Drive-In is a great value. General admission (12 and up) is $8; Children 6-11 just $3; while kids 5 and under are free. Revenue for the Skyline Drive-In is supported by the fully stocked Concession stand, so bring your appetite as well as all your friends and family. Pets are also welcome on leashes while outside your vehicle. The show starts at dusk, rain or shine, with the movie’s soundtrack is broadcasted on a radio frequency (89.1 FM).
Friday, August 31 – September 2 | Hoodsport, WA
Experience this unparalleled adventure and see the world beneath the waves! Get your scuba diving certification with the PADI Open Water Diver Course. To enroll in Hoodsport'n Dive's PADI Open Water Diver Course you need to have adequate swimming skills and need to be in good physical health. No prior experience with scuba diving is required. This entry-level certification course is designed to give students the necessary skills to conduct open water dives in conditions similar to their training without the direct supervision of an instructor. The cost for this class is $450.00 and includes: books, registration, and rental equipment (may be additional fees). Call Hoodsport'N Dive at (360) 866-3684 to register for this and other classes available at their Hoodsport location or visit hoodsportndive.com for additional details.
Each community surrounding the fjord and the inner inlets of Puget Sound have a unique personality. Take some time get to know each town – shop, stay, dine and support the local businesses.
SHELTON is the westernmost city on Puget Sound. Shelton was once served by steamboats traveling Hammersley on the currents, delivering supplies. Tugboats still ride the tides to deliver throughout Puget Sound. Try fresh local oysters at Mo's or order carne asada at El Sarape (downtown) – there are great dining options in Shelton.
UNION is historically significant as an "artists’ haven." In the turn of the century this was the vacation spot for many famous actors, musicians, artists, and writers. Lodging ranges from quaint cottages to inclusive resorts,there are also great waterfront dining options here including Alderbrook Resort and the Clubhouse at Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club. For a delicious sandwich visit the Union Square Deli. The best homemade (onsite) fudge can be found up the road at the Alderbrook Country Store/Texaco!
CUSHMAN is a 4,010-acre lake at Skokomish River’s head, above the west shore of Hood Canal. The area is popular for hiking, fishing, boating and kayaking. The shoreline is dotted with campgrounds and rental cabins. The lake is notable for its beautiful crystal clear blue water. There are dining options on the "way up," but stop in Hoodsport to buy supplies and visit the volunteers at Hoodsport Visitor Center with your questions.
is located on the western shore of the Hood Canal, near the mouth of the Skokomish River. Potlatch State Park is camping park with 5,700-feet of saltwater shoreline. This beach is great for harvesting your own shellfish. You will need a Discover Pass and a WA State fishing license to harvest (and park!).
LILLIWAUP is located at the mouth of Lilliwaup Creek. Highway 101 passes through the small town. Lilliwaup Store stocks Olympic Mountain Ice Cream as well as the almost famous bumper sticker, " Where the Hell is Lilliwaup." Both great reasons to pull in! Hama Hama with their retail store and Oyster Saloon is just down the road pass the Eagle Creek Tavern.
HOODSPORT is famous to cold water SCUBA enthusiasts for the unique marine biomes. Stop by the Hardware Distillery and Stottle Winery, on Hwy 101, for tastings. You will find all you need for the prefect Olympic Park picnic at the IGA Grocery located in the town center.
ALLYN, located in the protected waters of the South Sound, is a great place to launch you kayak on Case Inlet. Here you will find more ice cream, and a selection of restaurants and shops including the museum and gallery like chainsaw carving store, Bear in the Box.
BELFAIR is nestled in the tip of Hood Canal. Belfair hosts local and chain restaurants along with major grocery stores and many small local shops. Stop by Bent Bine Brewery or Mosquito Fleet Winery to try some locally blended flavors.
BRINNON is close to the beautiful Dosewallips State Park. Stop at the Halfway House for fresh pie and ice cream. Visit the seven acres of plants at Whitney Gardens.
QUILCENE is located on the Olympic Peninsula along the Hood Canal and is a friendly community of approximately 600 people. Here you will find plenty of small shops and delicious restaurants. Check out the very cool and informative Quilcene Historical Museum while in the area.
Find out at the Pumpkinfest Catapult Competition Saturday, October 27, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM. Sponsored by the NM Chamber of Commerce and hosted at Hunter Farms in Union, local high school students show off their engineering skills by competing with pumpkin-chucking’ trebuchets.
Pumpkin Patch Harvest Festival Hunter Farms offer hay rides to the pumpkin patch, a hay maze, animal viewing in the barn, a corn maze, food and fun for the whole family daily throughout October. For information, visit hunter-farms.com.
71 Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club
(360) 898-2575 | 330 Country Club Dr, Union
70 Alderbrook Resort & Spa
(360) 898-2200 | 7101 E SR 106, Union
25 Blue Horizons Paddlesports
(253) 256-1887 | 14008 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport | Kayak rentals/tours
73 Harmony Hill Retreat Center
(360) 898-2363 | 7362 E SR 106, Union
59 Hood Canal Marina (360) 898-2252
5101 E SR 106, Union | Tours and moorage
46 Hood Sport N’ Dive (360) 877-6818
24080 Hwy 101, Hoodsport | Scuba
40 Hoodsport Library (360) 877-9339
40 N Schoolhouse Hill Rd, Hoodsport | WiFi
55 Hunter Farms & Visitor Center
(360) 426-2222 | 1921 E SR 106, Union
8 Kayak Brinnon (360) 796-4116
251 Hjelvicks Rd, Brinnon
28 Lake Cushman Golf Course
(360) 877-5505 | 210 N Fairway Dr W, Hoodsport
27 Lake Cushman Resort (360) 877-9630
4621 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport | rentals
54 Lucky Dog Casino (360) 877-5656
19330 Hwy 101, Skokomish | Casino
15 Mike’s Beach Resort & Diving
(360) 877-5324 | 38470 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
63 Olympia Schooner Co. (360) 898-2145
Alderbrook dock, Union
14 Pleasant Harbor Marina Resort
(360) 796-4611 | 308913 US-101, Brinnon
55 Skokomish Tribal Center & Museum
(360) 426-4232 80 N Tribal Center Rd, Skokomish
58 Hood Canal Events (360) 710-7452
PO Box 438, Union, Washington
10 Whitney Gardens and Nursery
(360) 796-4411 306264 US-101, Brinnon 67. Our Community Credit
66 Alderbrook Country Store (360) 898-7400
1031 E McReavy Rd, Union | Texaco Gas
39 Hood Canal Outfitters (360) 877-9444
24171 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
2 Quilcene Village Store (360) 765-0190
294235 US-101
53 Twin Totems Store (360) 427-9099
19390 Hwy 101, Skokomish | Shell Gas
11 Brinnon General Store (360) 796-4400
306413 US-101, Brinnon
7 Cove RV Park & Country Store
(360) 796-4723 | 303075 US-101, Brinnon
16 Hama Hama Oyster Co. (888) 877-5844
35846 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
55 Hunter Farms (360) 426-2222
1921 E SR 106, Union
44 IGA Grocery Store (360) 877-9444
24151 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
28 Lake Cushman Grocery
2550 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport
19 Lilliwaup Store (360) 877-0002
28621 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
2 Quilcene Village Store (360) 765-0190
294235 US-101
60 Union City Market (360) 898-3500
5101 E State Route 106, Union | year round
61 Union Country Store (360) 898-2641
5130 E SR 106, Union | Summer only
58 2 Margaritas Restaurant (360) 898-2462
5121 E SR 106, Union
72 Alderbrook Clubhouse Grille (360) 898-2560
330 Country Club Dr E, Union
70 Alderbrook Resort & Spa (360) 898-5500
7101 E SR 106, Union
17 Eagle Creek Saloon (360) 877-6729
31281 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
47 El Puerto de Angeles Restaurant (360) 877-5921 | 24080 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
5 Gear Head Deli (360) 301-3244
294963 US-101, Quilcene
12 Geoduck Family Restaurant (360) 796-4430
307103 US-101, Brinnon
16 Hama Hama Oyster Co. (888) 877-5844
35846 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
35 Hoodsport Coffee Co. (360) 877-6732
24240 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
51 Kelsey’s All Natural (360) 877-5696
21391 US-101, Skokomish
36 Model T Pub & Eatery (360) 877-9883
24281 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
54 NorthFork Grill (360) 877-2300
Lucky Dog Casino, 19330 Hwy 101, Skokomish
14 Pleasant Harbor Marina Resort (360) 796-4611 | 308913 US-101, Brinnon
64 Robin Hood Restaurant (360) 898-4400
6790 E SR 106, Union
33 The Burger Stand (360) 877-6122
24311 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
31 The Girls Café (360) 877-9000
2440 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hwy 119, Hoodsport
21 The Tides Family Restaurant (360) 877-8921
27061 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
4 Twana Road House (360) 765-6485
94793 US-101, Quilcene
68 Union Square Deli & Espresso
(360) 898-3354 | 310 E Dalby Rd, Suite 100, Union
9 Brinnon Visitor’s Center (360) 796-4350
306144 US-101, Brinnon
32 Hoodsport Visitor Info (800) 576-2021
(360) 877-2021 | 150 N Lk Cushman Rd, Hoodsport
55 Hunter Farms Visitor Center (360) 426-2222
1921 E SR 106, Union
3 Munn Bros Hood Canal Properties
(360) 765-4500 | 294843 US-101, Quilcene
69 Cameo Boutique & Wine Shop
(360) 898-3200 | 6871 E SR 106, Union
1 Henery Hardware (360) 765-3113
294382 US-101, Quilcene
39 Hood Canal Outfitters (360) 877-9444
24171 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
57 Kari’s Collectibles (360) 898-0277
4941 E SR 106, Union
37 Laurie’s Gift & Liquor (360) 877-5252
24230 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
43 Octopus Garden Jewelry (360) 877-5530
24180 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
55 Alderbrook Resort & Spa (360) 898-2200
7101 E SR 106, Union
69 Cameo Boutique Cottages (360) 490-7006
130 NE Dulalip Landing, Belfair
78 The Selah Inn B&B (877) 232-7941
6871 E SR 106, Union, selahinn.com
7 Cove RV Park & Country Store
(360) 796-4723 | 303075 US-101, Brinnon
30 Dow Creek Resort (360) 877-5022
2670 N. Lake Cushman Road, Hoodsport
77 Gladwin Beach House (360) 337-2960
391 Gladwin Beach Rd, Belfair, gladwinbeach.com
i 23 Glen Ayr Resort, Motel & RV Park
(360) 877-9522, 25381 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
73 Harmony Hill Retreat Center (360) 898-2363
7362 E SR 106, Union
13 Hood Canal Vacation Homes (360) 796-3450
vacationhomesonhoodcanal.com
19 Lilliwaup Motel (360) 877-0002
28621 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
15 Mike’s Beach Resort (360) 877-5324
38470 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
6 Mount Walker Inn (360) 765-3410
61 Maple Grove Rd, Quilcene
22 Rest-A-While RV Park (360) 877-9474
27001 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
65 Robin Hood Village (360) 898-2163
6780 SR 106, Union
76 Sisters Point Waterfront Cabin (360) 275-6816
12121 NE North Shore Rd, Belfair
26 Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman
(360) 877-5760 | 7211 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport
75 Summertide Resort & Marina (360) 275-9313
15781 NE North Shore Road, Tahuya
24 Sunrise Motel & Dive (360) 877-5301 24520 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
62 The Bend on Hood Canal (360) 490-5545
253 E Great Bend Drive, Union
49 The Waterfront at Potlatch (360) 877-9422 21660 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
69 Cameo Boutique & Wine Shop
(360) 898-3200 | 6871 E SR 106, Union
48 Hoodsport Winery & Tasting Room
(360) 877-9508 | N 23501 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
42 Stottle Winery Tasting Room
(360) 877-2247 | 24180 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
38 The Hardware Distillery & Tasting Room
(206) 300-0877 | 24210 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
67 Our Community Credit Union (OCCU)
(800) 426-5657 | 320 E Dalby Rd, Ste A, Union
34 Columbia Bank
(360) 877-5272 | 24341 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
Brinnon 144 Brinnon Ln, Brinnon
Hoodsport 76 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport
Lilliwaup 8621 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
Quilcene 294843 US-101, Quilcene
Union 310 E Dalby Rd, Union
