MAPS • HIKES • HISTORY • COMMUNITY 2022FALL • 22ISSUE LAKE SUNDOWN Craig Romano leads us off the beaten track –28 WATERFALLSCHASING Hikes Guide shares 25 local spots - 68 OYSTERFEST 2022 Shucking excitement back in Sheltontracingthefjord.com33
theBooSaytoFlu! Mason Health will be offering free flu shots emailToTrunk-or-Treat.duringdonatecandy,foundation@masongeneral.com The community is invited to a Cars will be spaced out 6 feet and staff will be dressed up in festive costumes. Staff will also be required to wear masks and gloves. EVENT SPONSOR www.MasonGeneral.com • 901 Mountain View Drive, Shelton, WA 98584 • (360) 426-1611, from Allyn (360) 275-8614, Toll free (855) 880-3201, TTY/TDD (360) 427-9593. Equal Opportunity Provider • Free Translation Services Provided/Se habla español • Mason Health does not discriminate on the basis of patient’s age, race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, culture, physical or mental disability, nancial status or condition (including the terminally ill or dying), limited English, visual, hearing or learning impaired. Mason General Hospital Emergency Department Parking Lot 06/2022
Rachel Hansen | editor
Tracing the Fjord is produced quarterly by IMAGE IN ACTION DESIGN (360) 427-5599 | PO Box 622, Shelton, WA 98584
THE FJORD OYSTER BANK
© 2022 No reprint without permission.
In issuethisof the FJORD ISSUE 22 | VOLUME 5 EVENTS HOODSPORT-6 WATERCOLOR group plans art show in Eldon – 17 OYSTER RACES Quilcene, WA- 21 WILD EDIBLES TOURS Check out the Duckabush - 25 LAKE SUNDOWN Craig Romano feature hike - 28 SOUTH PUGET SOUND ISLANDS FEATURE - 37 SKYLINE THEATER SIGN neon project - 43 VOTE –SHELLFISH44 FEATURE- 56 XINH | OYSTERFEST GOO - 63 COVER STORY Hikes guide & waterfall feature - 68
This summer has been one filled with wonderful memories and some spectacular photos. After a two year postponement (for obvious reasons), our Danish cousins finally were able to return for a visit. Although little work got done on the oyster farm or garden, or the bank in Hoodsport (Tracing the Fjord's future home) we filled 28 glorious days with local adventures in the nooks and crannies of our backyard. Each community – Shelton, Belfair, Brinnon, Union, Hoodsport, Quilcene, Allyn & Grapeview – hosts a unique home page with updates including weather, tides, local hikes, walks and history. We've begun curating the five years of local stories from past Fjord issues to connect our communi ties from within as well as with each other. Thank you for all your support over the last half decade. Enjoy the September cool down and your pumpkin lattes. We look forward to meeting you in person as we finally open up The Fjord Oyster Bank in Hoodsport later this fall. We promise to have lots of great Xinh food and I'll even figure out how to put a leaf design on your pumpkin latte. Fall's better for eating oysters anyway. tracingthefjord.com
FALL INTO FUN. There is so much to do around the Fjord. The problem is, living here, we rarely have the time to dedicate a day to enjoying it. Having guests motivated us to hike, launch the boat, dust off the kayaks, and, on one very hot August afternoon, blow up the unicorns and flying pigs to float the Skokomish River. By Day 14 even I was visiting explorehoodcanal.com and the summer issue of the Fjord for inspiration! This summer, along with Jeff Slakey's help, we launched tracingthefjord.com to better connect our communities and provide a platform for a whole new level beyond the printed word. The new website allow us to post video, audio and links and Jeff's weekly video report – as it happens! Along with audio and video recordings, the site includes a central landing page to share news and events.
Cover Image: Murhut Falls, Story Page
FJORD 41-877-426-0933 VERLES.COM Your Complete Hunting, Boating, Fishing and Repair Destination Since 1948. WE OFFER A LARGE INVENTORY OF QUALITY5BRANDSTOP DEALER Since 2018 1-877-426-0933 & 2021
Jeff & Xinh hosting their Seafood Boil cooking video, visit tracingthefjord.com to view.
WHAT A SUMMER!
“Let us be your guides”
Message from Jeff Slakey Media Coordinator, Tracing The Fjord As I sit out on my front porch with a morning coffee, I feel that chill in the air. The fog is starting to roll in and hide the Olympics and Capital Forest. It has been quite a summer and I am so happy that I’ve been able to show you just a sliver of the great things in our area. Taking my mom on waterfall hikes to show not just her, but you too that they are beautiful and accessible, has been a great treat. Also look ing back since June it’s been great sharing adventures and stories; you wouldn’t believe the number of long-timers who’ve come up to me and talked about not knowing about some of the things we’ve done. Finally riding in the Tour De Mason is something I’ve been wanting to do since getting into the community and the Karen Hilburn Cancer Fund is such a great organization to help. Taking a tour of The Salmon Center with Mendy Harlow and learning about all the glamping opportuni ties in Hood Canal were both eye-openers. Most recently, learning the history of the Harstine Island Community Hall with Sandy Murphy was fascinating. This Fall I don’t plan on slowing down, in fact I have plans to revisit some of the spots from the summer to see just how things change as well as start heading indoors and taking some tours of our museums around the Fjord. If you have any ideas for me, please reach out, email jeff@nwevent.org or you can send me a message on Facebook.
5 FJORD 360-301-4700 Jim 360-301-4026 Bruce 360- 531 4419 Kalen 294843 Highway 101 Quilcene WA munnbros.com
IMAGESPhoto:KLAAS
Start your adventure with us. Our pristine area makes it a unique place to live. Locally grown food, wild crafting mushrooms, outdoor activities, wildlife, and an abundance of fresh seafood. Enjoy the extended Spring & Autumn seasons of the Hood Canal located on the Olympic Peninsula. The “Munn Bro’s” specialize in waterfront homes and forested land in the Hood Canal area. As your Real Estate guides, we provide experienced knowledge of the area and maps. Contact us about personalized Notifications of new listings for your dream property now. Available on weekends, call for appointment. Free maps & tide books available. Visit our new website, munnbros.com.
LiveMondaysmusicwith Blue Suede Shoes
Live Music at the Hook & Fork Thursdays, 3PM - 5PM Union City Market, 5101 SR 106, Union Sept 9 - Josh Meeks Sept 15 - Rainier Project Sept 22 - Dave Ashby Sept 29 - Lady Drinks Whiskey Check unioncitymarket.com for complete schedule. 9 Ball Billiards Tournament Thursdays, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM El Sarape Cantina, 324 W Railroad Ave, Shelton Double elimination playing 9 ball BCA rules $6 entry fee per individual , 21+.
EVENT CALENDAR
Zach Hansen and Al Tupper install the 32' Oysterman of OysterFest at Outlook Park to herald the arrival of the annual WA State Sea food festival, October 1 & 2.
TuesdayTuesdaysTrivia and Tacos
SheltonThursdaysParks & Rec Pickleball
REOCCURING
Saturday, September 10, 8 PM West Central Park Project 1919 Harrison Ave NW, Olympia
FridaysSheltonFamily
Tuesdays, 7 PM - 9 PM El Sarape Cantina, 318 W Railroad Ave, Shelton Shelton Parks & Rec Pickleball Tuesdays, 9 - 11 AM Community Transit Center (MTA) Adult drop-in pickleball. Similar to tennis but indoors with smaller paddles and a plastic ball. Great fun and exercise. Coed, all skill levels welcome. $3.00/drop in.
SEPTEMBER West Olympia Luminary Celebration
Thursdays, 9 - 11 AM Community Transit Center (MTA) Adult drop-in pickleball. Similar to tennis but indoors with smaller paddles and a plastic ball. Great fun and exercise. Coed, all skill levels welcome. $3.00/drop in Open Mic Night Thursdays, 6 PM -9 PM Bent Bine Brewery, 23297 SR 3 NE, Belfair Weekly open mics – family friendly, allows brought-in food and leashed behaved dogs.
YMCA FREE Teen Night Fridays, 5 PM - 8 PM 3101 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton Hang at the Y however you want – for free! The Shelton Family YMCA will be open for teens each Friday (7–12 grade) to get active, spend time together, play basketball, swim, and more! Participants must have a school ID to enter.
Mondays, 10 AM - Noon The Hub, 111 NE Old Belfair Hwy, Belfair Bring a snack to share and dust off your dancing shoes. $1 members, $3 for non-members.
ZUMBATuesdaysatthe Hub Wednesdays, 8:30 AM The Hub, 111 NE Old Belfair Hwy, Belfair The cost per session is $3 for members; $5 for non-members.
The 3rd Luminary Celebration brings together the gorgeous, whimsical procession luminaries in an end-of-summer celebration of light and community. They will start gathering at 8 and kick off at dusk with a short procession around the park block, returning to the event area for dancing and luminary-gazing! Bring your own safe wearable or carry-able lighted creations and celebrate with them.
FJORD 6
Quilcene Fair, Parade & Car Show
City of Shelton Fall Evening Yoga Classes
FJORD
September 17, 10 AM – 3 PM 294715 Hwy 101, Quilcene Live music, vendors, car show, raffle, various exhibitions, kids games and activities. Vendors and Car show open from 10 AM - 3 PM, the Parade starts at 11 AM. Music 12 - 2 PM. Check in for parade and Car Show starting 9am, no pre-registration required. Vendors and Food, all day, 10-3! Return of Kids Games with Laser Tag and Arts & Crafts with many entry categories including a photo contest! quilcenefair.org
Wednesday, September 14, 5:30 PM Shelton Civic Center, 525 W Cota St, Shelton Classes will be held in the yoga room, a private setting inside of the civic center. Pre-register through Shelton Parks and Recreation. Drop-ins welcome after 8 people have signed up (8 peo ple minimum registered for the full session by September 13th to hold the full 7-class session). Contact Jordanne Krumpols at (360) 432-5105 for information.
Artist’s Reception with John Tylczak Friday, September 16, 5 PM Mason County Historical Society Museum, 427 Railroad Avenue, Shelton Local photographer John Tylczak, when he’ll dis cuss his photos and stories behind the locations in “ Loggers Laments and other Tales of the Dark Wood.”
The races begin and end at Worthington Park, site of the recently restored Victorian-era Worthington Mansion. Great scenery, awesome volunteers, and support for good causes make this a “can’t-miss” event! Registration includes: Your event-specific finisher medal; One serving of local oysters after the race; One local craft beer after the race (21 and over); Free tours of the Quilcene Historical Museum Hippie Family Bingo Friday, September 16, 6:30 PM Head to The HUB for some fun, snacks, and priz es. Dress in the Hippie theme and be entered in a drawing for a fun prize. It would be a bummer if you missed out. Admission is $7 and includes a BINGO pack that plays all 8 games. Or reserve a private table for $50 that comes with 6 BINGO packs. Limited seating, all ages, purchase tickets online, or in person Monday-Friday at The HUB or at the door. Pedal the Rails with your family and friends. For reservations www.vcrailriders.comvisit:
7
Quilcene Oyster Races Sunday, September 18, 8 AM - 3 PM Worthington Park ,151 W Columbia St, Quilcene
Open until October! Reserve Online today!
FJORD 8
GREASE Movie Singalong Beer Choir at Potlatch Brewing
Wild & Woodsy Catering has a vision to create any special event. We have coordinated over 500 events over the last 35 years. Let us do what we do best so you and your guests can enjoy your time together. If you'd like to schedule an event, request menus or more information, give us a call! wwheather@wildandwoodsy.com360-229-1388w.wildandwoodsy.com
Water Sounds Annual Native Art Auction and Traditional Dinner
Saturday: Fog Holler, Quattlebaum, The High Sea grass.; Sunday: Virginia Rail ,Tony Furtado Duo, The Lowest Pair It'll be a plucking and shucking good time! This is an outdoor party on the water, with plenty of room to spread out. Food & drink from our kitchens & our friends at Yodelin Broth will be available for purchase inside the event. A portion of all ticket sales will be donated to Puget Sound Restoration Fund. Single Day passes are $30 & Full Weekend Passes are $50. Kids 15 and under get in free. This is a dogs discouraged situa tion - usually our farm is dog-friendly, but when it gets crowded it's not safe or relaxing for dogs, so please leave yours at home. Note for folks buying 2 day passes: there is no on-site camping. Reserve a spot at a local state park!
Charlotte's Web Outdoor Movie Friday, September 16, 7 – 9 PM Worthington Park, Quilcene Presented in partnership with Quilcene Histori cal Museum and Worthington Park
Charlotte's Web is a 1973 American animated musical drama film based upon the 1952 chil dren's book of the same name by E. B. White. Suggested $5 Donation. 20th Anniversary of Jefferson County Farm Tour Saturday & Sunday, September 17-18, 10 - 4 PM Quilcene, various locations Celebrate locally grown food, fiber, and farm-made products. Self-guided tours. Learn more: son-county-farm-tour.theproductionalliance.org/events/jeffer
Touch a Truck
The Squaxin Island Museum is thrilled to open their doors again for a night of art, cuisine and philanthropy. Silent and live auctions, traditional Native foods and cultural sharing by the Squaxin Island Tribe. Doors open: 4:30 PM, silents auction begins, 5 PM; traditional dinner 6 PM; live auction 7PM. squaxinislandmuseum.org Banjo Rama at Hama Hama 2022
Saturday, September 17, 4:30 PM - 8 PM
Saturday, September 17, 9 AM - 12 PM 2102 E Johns Prairie Rd, Shelton Free Community Event. The Shelton Family YMCA and South Mason Youth Soccer Club present Touch a Truck, Experience the World!
WILD & CATERINGWOODSYevent&cateringservice
The Perfect Bite.
Saturday September 17, 7 PM - 9 PM 24180 N US Highway 101, Hoodsport Beer Choir is fun for the whole family, so whether you raise a pint or not, you can come raise your voice with us outside in the all ages beer garden!
September 17-18, music 1 - 6 PM Hama Hama Oyster Co, Lilliwaup 2 day Banjo Party setting the world record for number of banjos on stage at an oyster farm.
Back to School September Walk ON DAY!
Sunday, September 18, 10 AM Master Blaster's Paintball Park & Field 107 Murray Rd N, Grapeview Summers almost over so bring the kids out for some end of summer fun! Gates open at 10 AM games start at 11 AM! Text (360) 277-9369 with questions. HELP (360) 427-4248 www.bowmanfgi.com
NEED
PLANNING RETIREMENT? If it seems like a daunting task to plan how you’ll make your money last in retirement, you’re in luck. We’ve been there before, and we can help you get a handle on preparing for your financial future. There’s no need to go it alone. Call Bowman Financial Group today for more information!
We are an independent financial services firm helping individuals create retirement strategies using a variety of insurance products to custom suit their needs and objectives. NEED HELP WITH MEDICARE?
Saturday, September 17 Ridge Motorsports Park 1060 W Eells Hill Rd, Shelton, WA Classroom instruction, tech inspection for your moto, an instructor led track session that will be the perfect bucket list item and all for a small donation to benefit the Old Dog Haven. Limited to approximately 20 spots, over the years they have raised thousands of dollars for charities and 70%+ of the participants love it so much they come back for full track days!
FJORD
North Mason Chamber Gala
Taste Of The Track
The $10 cover grants admission and one ticket for a draft of craft beer (or 20% off a non-draft beverage), and directly supports Great Bend's early childhood music program. Buy tickets in advance or at the door, and don’t forget that Pod Squad Members get discounted or free admission to all Great Bend events!
9
Saturday, September 17, 5 - 10 PM 10 E Alderbrook Dr, Union Celebrate our community volunteers and leaders in a beautiful location with a fantastic dinner. northmasonchamber.com$75/$85
Civilian Conservation Corps Living History @ Millersylvania State Park
Saturday, September 17, 10 - 2 PM 12245 Tilley Rd S, Olympia Step back in time with Roosevelt's Tree Army and see the Civilian Conservation Corps back in action! Join them at Kitchen Shelter #1 to see authentic C.C.C. memorabilia, speak with costumed 'tree troopers', and participate in a walking tour of C.C.C. structures and projects.
Fall Festival Trail Running Event
Sunday, September 18, 8 AM Lake Sylvia State Park, Montesano Come out with the entire family for a day filled with fun and family activities. Get your Christ mas shopping started early at the Artist's Market and enjoy great live music, good food, and spe cial entertainment for the kids. Along with the trail runs enjoy trail races, a paddling adventure, nature education, and presentations on the his tory of Lake Sylvia and local bird watching. Park at Simpson School and take the shuttle for free. Parking inside the park is limited and requires a Discover Pass. Half marathon (8:00 am); 10K (8:15 am) and 5K (8:30 am) fosls.org Shelton Parks & Rec Cheer Camp
Kick off the new season with a fundraiser sup porting Community Lifeline! Enjoy live music, a silent auction, raffles, face paint, and more! Viking Kitty Ale at Bent Bine Saturday, September 24, 1 – 5 PM 23297 SR 3, Belfair Save the date for the unleashing of Viking Kitty Ale at Bent Bine Brew, Skål! The sales from this charity red ale featuring Norwegian yeast will jointly benefit Humane Society of Mason County and Kitten Rescue of Mason County. There will be delicious white chicken chili for purchase and pawsome raffle baskets including a Release the Kraken prize pack with 2 tickets to an upcoming home game! Bent Bine will also donate $1/pint of any Bent Bine Brew and pizza purchases day off the event! And then help us kill the kegs to keep the funds flowing for our spay and neuter programs. Kids and friendly leashed dogs welcome! hsmcwa.org
FJORD 10
September 20 - 23, 4 - 5 PM Shelton Hig School Stadium For grades K-7. $40 fee includes t-shirt. Call 360-432-5106 to register, registration deadline September 19.
Join the Hood Canal improvement Club for a local candidates forum.
Saturday, September 24, 12 - 4:30 PM Kneeland Park, Shelton WA
Wednesday, September 21, 5:30 PM New Community Church of Union 951 E Dalby Rd, Union, WA
Fall Fun Fest: Community Lifeline Fundraiser
Traditional Candidates "Forum"
HOOD CANAL You’re not just buying a House, You’re buying a Community Residential, Waterfront Properties, Vacant Land, Vacation Rentals, Commercial & Multifamily Locally Owned & Operated Office Market Experts 294963 Hwy 101 Quilcene 360SarahAndreadisAndreas796-3450LynnPerkinsBillBarnetJustinaSutherlandLocal
Trivia Night at Potlatch Brewing September 22, 7 PM - 9 PM 24180 N US Hwy 101, Hoodsport Gather for trivia night hosted by Cody! Free to play, teams up to six people. Prizes! 40+ Wellness Fair at the HUB Saturday, September 24, 9 AM - 12 PM The Hub, 111 NE Old Belfair Hwy, Belfair Resources galore, refreshments, lots of raffles, and giveaways. hubhappenings.org
Mason County Candidate Forum Tuesday, September 20, 12 noon Civic Center, 525 W Cota St, Shelton Join the Mason County League of Women Voters for a forum with candidates for Mason County Auditor, Assessor and County Clerk.
Saturday, September 24 Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Ref uge,100 Brown Farm Rd NE, Olympia
33rd Annual Nisqually Watershed Festival
OysterFunk Friday, September 30, 6 – 10 PM 250 Sanderson Way N, Shelton Ready and waiting for OysterFest 2022? So are we! Start off the weekend properly as they ring in the festival's return with a night of music and oysters at OysterFunk hosted by Shelton Rotary Club on Friday night in the beer garden. This event is 21+. Host band is the Varmints. Ad mission is $5 at the gate. This is Pre-OysterFest event. OysterFest runs SAT & SUN.
Mushrooms of the Olympic Peninsula
www.ourcu.com
Saturday, September 24, 10:30 AM – 1 PM 306146 Hwy 101 N, Brinnon 2.5-hour wild mushroom identification walking tour through the Olympic National Forest! Learn about edible and non-edible mushrooms, forag ing skills and how to make a spore print!
Sunday, September 25, 7 PM 3737 Shelton Springs Road, Shelton Mason County Concert Association is back presenting the ultimate concert celebration of the legendary Everly Brothers. The Everly Set whisks your audience to 1957 when teens Phil and Don Everly first supercharged the sound of Rock’n’Roll. masoncountyconcerts.org
PURPLE XPERIENCE |
11 FJORD
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party & Escape Room
The Everly Set
Proudly Serving Our Community, Generation to Generation Join Our Legacy Today & Discover the Credit Union Difference!
The festival is an annual celebration of nature featuring art, discovery, music, science, and family fun. Among the festivities there will be live performances, displays from local organi zations, walking tours, an Insect Extravaganza, storytelling, and more! There will be multiple snack and lunch options available* including a salmon barbecue! Watch a salmon dissection, listen to traditional stories, learn about reptiles and bats, tour the Refuge trails or Nisqually Nearshore, make a salmon life-cycle keychain, bring a t-shirt to make a fish print, and get ready for a day of fun! *Please note food vendors are cash-only and there is no ATM on site at the Refuge. Entrance is free all day!
Sunday, September 25 413 W Railroad Ave, Shelton You are invited to the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party!
The Hub, 111 NE Old Belfair Hwy, Belfair Networking and lunch & program with guest speakers. $30/$35 Belfair Christmas Parade Plan Meeting Thursday, September 29 , 5:30 PM
Chamber Lunch & Learn USS Turney Joy Wednesday Sep 28, 2022, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
What to expect: 20 min tea party with real tea & sweet & salty snacks, Select your vintage tea cup to use at the tea party & KEEP IT as your special gift. Photo wall with fun props, 60 minute countdown Escape Room Activity. Extra prize for table that finishes first, Extra extra prize for best costume! $30 per person (best for ages 8+)
The Hub, 111 NE Old Belfair Hwy, Belfair No experience necessary just a desire to plan an exciting and fun parade for the whole communi ty to enjoy. Bring ideas and Christmas spirit!
Tribute to Prince Saturday, September 24, 8 PM - 9:30 PM Little Creek Casino, 91 West SR 108, Shelton A five-piece group that have been touring around the country since it’s inception in 2011. littlecreek.com
OCTOBER
Tiny Tides Storytime Saturday, Oct 1, 10 – 11 AM 309 State Ave NE, Olympia, WA Step into the Puget Sound Estuarium before they open to the public Vaughn Haunted Forest Opening Night Saturday, Oct 1, call for times 17616 S Vaughn Rd NW, Vaughn, WA The annual haunted forest is open throughout October. myhauntedforest.com 40th Anniversary OysterFest Saturday & Sunday, October 1-2 250 Sanderson Way, Shelton Saturday: 10AM – 6PM; Sunday:10AM – 5PM The famous Oyster Shucking Championship and OysterFest are back! Enjoy live music, food, family displays and activities and oysters! Adults $10 | Youth 8-17 $5 Kids under 5 free, free park ing & shuttle; tickets available online in advance or at the gate. oysterfest.org time. on the Chef’s Special.
Only valid
Theler Wetlands Trail, 22641 WA-3, Belfair, WA
Friday, October 7, 6 – 9 PM El Sarape Cantina, 324 W Railroad, Shelton WA Olympia Local Devin Damino live at the Cantina!
$5 CHEF’SOFFSTEAKSPECIAL
Skid Row Saturday, October 8, 8 – 10:30 PM Skookum Creek Events Center 91 WA-108, Shelton Skid Row will be rocking the Skookum Creek Event Center with special guest Quiet Riot. littlecreek.com SPEED DATING WITH THE CANDIDATES
Paint and Sip Tuesday, October 4, 6-9 PM El Sarape Cantina, Shelton $30 per person.Prepay to reserve your spot. Space is limited.All supplies and instruction provided. Questions about classes, call or text 360-402-6453 Fall Arts Walk in Downtown Olympia Friday & Saturday October 7-8 FRI 5 – 10 PM; SAT 12-5 PM Olympia Downtown Various Locations Mark your calendar for Arts Walk where 91 downtown businesses will open their doors to showcase a rich and diverse resource of visual and performing arts of the South Sound Region. Enjoy two days of drawings, paintings, prints, sculpture, ceramics, photography, fibers and other visual art. Take in diverse performing arts, from family theater to a variety of musical styles and dance. Arts Walk maps are available at participating locations, olympiawa.gov/artswalk.
This walk is on level, well-maintained trails. Thel er is primarily an estuary habitat, with wooded areas as well -- creating a lot of edge habitat for a diversity of birds. It is not necessary to sign up prior to joining our walks, however if there are any questions, please contact Faye Hands by email: zest4parus@hotmail.com
C L U B IMAWINNER 1234567890ATENTERTAINMENTLIVETHEDRIFT EVERY STARTINGFRIDAYAT9PM NEW GAMES ARE ARRIVING! NEW OFFERMEMBER New Club Lucky members get a FREE burger basket! Tell your friends! CHEF’S SPECIALSTEAK Enjoy Chef’s selection of steak served with your choice of potato and seasonal vegetable on the side. STARTINGTHRUWEDNESDAYEVERYSUNDAYAT3PM PRIME RIB SPECIAL EVERY FRIDAY OR SATURDAY Enjoy $5 off Prime Rib Special! Club Lucky card required. 19330 N US HWY 101 Skokomish, WA 98584 myluckydogcasino.com 360.877.5656 NOW – JANUARY 31, 2023 Valid one
Steak
Thursday, October 13, 8 – 11 AM
12
Live Music: Devin Damino
Thursday, October 13, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Civic Center, 525 Cota St, Shelton Ask YOUR questions directly to the candidates. Participants will be assigned a table and the candidates will rotate between the tables. All candidates have received an invite to this event. Presented by the League of Women Voters. Theler Wetlands Bird Walk
Bird Walk: Downtown Birding Tours
Power of the Purse is the much-anticipated annual fundraiser benefiting Turning Pointe Survivor Advocacy Center and the vital services they offer survivors of domestic and sexual violence and their families.
St. Olaf Orchestra at Olympia High School
13 FJORD
EXCAVATION
SERVING & NEEDS FOR 20 YEARS! 360-432-3147 eikconstruction.com
Power of the Purse
Bill Engvall is a Grammy nominated, multi-plat inum selling recording artist and one of the top comedians in the country. Most recently, Bill was a contestant on season 17 of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars, where he made it to the finals.
Saturday, October 15, 5:30 - 9 PM Skookum Creek Events Center 91 WA-108, Shelton
Sunday, October 23 309 State Ave NE, Olympia Puget Sound Estuarium 2 hour walk. Bring your own binoculars, however we do have a few to spare. $15 Kids 12 and Under - FREE. Seraph Brass Concert Monday, Oct 24, 7 – 9 PM Shelton Performing Arts Center 3737 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton, WA Mason County Concerts Association presents Seraph Brass, a dynamic brass ensemble draw ing from a roster of America’s top female brass players.
Smells Like AMC Spirit 2022 Sat, Oct 15, 7 AM – Sun, Oct 16, 6 PM Ridge Motorsports Park 1060 W Eells Hill Rd, Shelton An endurance car racing series on dedicated road courses for $500 cars. All-access / all-week end spectator pass is $30 at the gate; spectator pass covers race days plus BS & Tech Day. Kids under 16 free. 24hoursoflemons.com
24 Hours of Lemons
Pier Peer at Shelton Yacht Club Sat, Oct 29 Shelton Yacht Club, 701 E Pine St, Shelton Come discover the mysterious creatures that live below the pier! Biologists provide underwater lights that attract spectacular estuary creatures for you to safely scoop up and observe.
The St. Olaf Orchestra is a full symphony orches tra rich in international artistry and tradition and known for its enthusiastic and passionate performances. Founded in 1906, the 95-mem ber ensemble has been heralded as one of the finest collegiate orchestras in the country and won the 2013 and 2019 American Prizes in Orchestral Performances among colleges and universities. Tickets are FREE for all ages!
Bill Engvall Live at Little Creek Saturday, October 22, 6 PM/9 PM Little Creek Casino Resort, 91 WA-108, Shelton
MASON COUNTY’S BUILDING
Tuesday, October 18, 7 PM Olympia High School, Olympia, WA
Congratulations EI Kristyn & Son Construction, Inc celebrating 20 years (2002-2022)!
As you begin your holiday shopping, support Local. Vintage and designed holiday decor as well as great gifts.
Quilcene Fiber Festival / Sheep2Shawl Saturday, November 5, All day Worthington Park, 151 W Columbia St, Quilcene
Prizes are back, so don't delay on planning your design! This event highlights the inventive, the spooky and often times bizarre talents of locals.
National Parks - Free Entrance Day Friday, November 11, all day
A gathering of all things fiber, from Sheep to Shawl, at the beautiful and historic Worthington Park and Mansion in Quilcene located on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State. Join friends & artisans at this all day event.
NOVEMBER “Thank you, Union” What are we grateful for?
Saturday & Sunday, October 29-30, 11 AM-5 PM Hood Canal Vintage & Design, Seabeck Marina Enter your jack o' lantern in the annual pumpkin contest. Your creative entries may be dropped off at Hood Canal Vintage & Design, located in the southernmost building (Waters Edge).
Saturday Oct 29, 12- 1 PM Hunter Farms1921 E SR 106, Union At Hunter Farms in Union you can find out just how far a pumpkin can fly! Wood crafted pumpkin catapults and trebuchets compete in an annual competition of builder skill, accuracy, and showmanship. Make Seabeck Glow 2022
Tuesday, November 1 5:30 - 7 PM Union Fire Hall, 50 E Seattle St, Union Potluck dinner with entertainment. Scott McLendon's Hardware Ladies Night Wednesday Nov 2 Scott McLendon's Hardware, Belfair Special event for the ladies! Plan ahead for this exciting shopping event in Belfair. Vendors, special pricing, door prizes, fun food and more. See you there!
Sund Rock Dive at Night November 4 YSS Dive, 24080 North Hwy 101, Hoodsport To pay the small fee and reserve your spot you MUST contact YSS Dive directly and early as it will up fast. yssdive.com
Register your competitive prize-pool pumpkins October 29- 30 or, leave your "undocumented" gourd on the well-marked table before the shadowy sunset on October 31st.
3rd Annual "Hood Canal Holiday" Saturday, November 5 15398 Seabeck Hwy NW Suite 110, Seabeck
Union Pumpkinfest Catapult Competition
Mushroom & Plant
“
SAVEDECEMBERTHEDATE
Tours
CHRISTMASTOWN 2022 December 2 - 17, Downtown Shelton Christmastown WA, (Shelton) is getting ready for the holidays with family activities, food, crafting workshops and some spectacular lights to admire. Visit christmastownwa.org for additional details and schedule.
Holiday Market Friday & Saturday, December 9 -10, 10 - 4 PM New Community Church of Union 951 E Dalby Rd, Union, WA Local artisan gifts & wares, food and music hosted by the Hood Canal Improvement Club.
Tourist Information & Outdoors Gift Shop
Saturday, November 19, 7 PM El Sarape Cantina, 324 W Railroad Ave, Shelton Joke Masters has a premier comedic lineup coming for you for your perfect night out. The show begins at 7PM but please arrive as early as 6PM for optimum seating as well as time to order your food/ drinks! Tickets are $15 online and $20 at the door.
$20 Senior/Military Comedy Night at El Sarape Cantina
Vivaldi ”Gloria” RV 589 November 18 - 22 Friday Opening Night, November 18 at Faith Lutheran in Shelton, 8 PM Saturday Night, November 19 at Plymouth UCC Church in Seattle, 8 PM Sunday Matinee: November 20 at Faith Luther an in Shelton, 8 PM After a three year hiatus, the Great Bend Chorale and Youth Chorale resume their tradition of a fall masterwork performance with Vivaldi’s mag nificent Gloria, RV 589. $24 General Admission
“MCREAVY HOUSE CHRISTMAS PARTY with FRIENDS OF MCREAVY HOUSE Sunday, December 18, 1 - 3PM 10 E 2nd Ave, Union, WA
Holiday Magic!
FJORD 16 Hood Canal Adventures 360-301-6310 ASK ABOUT LOCAL KAYAK & SUP DELIVERY KAYAK RENTALS 251 Hjelvicks Road Brinnon, WA LOCATED IN BRINNON ON HOOD CANAL STORE ADDRESS 306146 Hwy 101 N Brinnon, WA hoodcanaladventures.com Kayak & SUP Rentals and Tours Foraging Tours & Cooking Classes
Native
Friday & Saturday, December 2 - 3, 6 - 8 PM Shelton Downtown Merchants and the Kristmas Town Kiwanis invite you to celebrate in Christ mas Town USA with FREE holiday merriment and family activities. Head over to Railroad to enjoy live music, Santa, bonfires with marshmallow roasting and Kiddie Train rides. Saturday eve ning Kristmas Town Kiwanis will host the Santa Claus Parade. Belfair Christmas Parade Sunday, December 4, 3 -6 PM Ring in the holidays and celebrate how much we have to be proud of in our North Mason commu nity! The 2022 theme is Candyland.
17 FJORD
Lake Kokanee watercolor group, artist, Bruce OsbornPlein Air Thursday Watercolor Group in Hoodsport celebrates Diesen House with art show, September 18
Watercolor, Delores Brown Watercolor, Nancy Gannon
They had five additional children and the house remained in the family until 1931.
17
In some cases the watercolor classes became 90 minute endurance matches, until finally they surrendered, as one by one they finally admitted, "I'm too cold to enjoy this anymore." The gazebo at Lake Kokanee park with its generous roof and beautiful wood stoves around the central chimney became the favorite winter gathering place. Each week a fire was lit in the stove, and the painters, bundled in fleece, wool, and raingear, took turns waving their hands above the flames to keep warm. In the drier months, the watercolorists painted at many other locations, including the Diesen Estate. The grand old build ing and the old, twisted fruit trees were frequent subjects of paintings
The Hoodsport watercolor group has been together since 2014, originally painting at the Hardware Distillery. They forged more closely together during fall of 2020, continuing to paint outside every week during all of the seasons of COVID.
El Hama Resort, Eldon Originally built in 1898 by early Hamma Hamma homesteaders, John and Emma Holmberg who raised their five children here, overlooking the river delta and hood Canal. In 1923 John and Emma added extensively to the house, including a second story and a wrap around deck so they could rent rooms to loggers and fisherman who frequented the area, dubbing the lodging, El Hama Resort. John Holmberg also opened and ran the Eldon Post office, receiving the mail on boat that delivered from Seattle to Union, Hoodsport and Eldon. After John's death Emma married Alfred Schaeffer.
FJORD 18 Photo Credit: Poppi Photography 2505 Olympic Hwy N. Suite 220 B Shelton, WA 98584 We Make Good Impressions (360) 426-4677 CUSTOM DESIGN | FULL SERVICE PRINTING CUSTOM APPAREL | DIRECT MAILING CUSTOM PROMO PRODUCTS OFFICE SUPPLIES | SPA SUPPLIES at the DiesenHistoricEstate with local art by artists from Lake Cushman & Hoodsport Sunday, September 18, 11-3 36500 N Hwy 101, Eldon Across the bridges from Hama Hama Oyster Saloon OPEN HOUSE & ART SHOW
Octopus Watercolor, Jan Morris
The former El Hama Resort overlooks the current Hama Hama Oyster Farm across the Hamma Hamma river. The Bridge was built in 1928. At the art show on September 18, the living room and kitchen will be available for viewing with art displayed on the outside wrap around porch of the first floor and in the living room. Music will be provided by “The Cushman Trio,” with Connie Miser on piano, Skylar Carroll on cello, and Susan Ca sey on flute. They will perform classical pieces by Mendelssohn and OriginalHaydn.paintings, prints, and giclees will be on display and for sale at the show. The Diesen estate is located on Hwy 101, just north of the Hama Hama Oyster saloon.
Charles and Emilie ("Millie") Diesen purchased the house in 1931 and raised their three sons on the Hood Canal while Charles, originally a plumber from Seattle, updated the home with electricity, indoor plumbing and running water. Nearly a century later the house has fallen into structural disrepair and is facing demolition. The family has invited the communi ty to share in the history with an open house on Sunday, Septem ber 18, 11 AM - 3 PM which will include an art show with pieces created by the Hoodsport watercolor group.
19 FJORD RELIABILIT Y IS A FAMILY TRADITION. MEET THE NEXT GENERATION. 1-877-426-0933 VERLES.COM
home?BuildingRemodeling?anew OLYMPIC MILLWORKMOUNTAIN • Quality cabinets & built-ins for every room • Pre-finished millwork • Paint grade millwork packages • Pre-hung interior & exterior doors Call for an onsite walk-through or visit our Shelton showroom. (360) 432-2992 822 E HIAWATHA BLVD. SHELTON, WA 98584 Visit our gallery online at: ommco.net Authorized Dealer Now, six decades later, two acclaimed NYC singer-song writers with a mind-bending three-decade age difference combine millennial pluck with baby-boomer wisdom to pres ent The Everly Set: Sean Altman & Jack Skuller Celebrate The Everly Brothers. Fameartist,Skullerex-teencomposer)CarmenAltmanAged-but-well-preserved(Rockapellafounder,Sandiegothemesongand20-somethingidolguitar-slinger(ex-DisneyrecordingSongwritersHallOf
The Everly Set in Shelton, Sept 25
Sean Altman and Jack Skuller Celebrate The Everly Brothers
FJORD 20
In 1957, teens Phil and Don Everly supercharged the vocal sound of Rock’n’Roll with “Bye Bye Love” and “Wake Up Little Susie”, unleashing the sparkling vocal harmonies that would influence The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, The Beach Boys, The Eagles, Peter Paul & Mary, and the Bee Gees. and Sean had just celebrated his shiny new AARP card. Their December-January musical bromance blossomed in 2017, when—as a lark—they learned a bunch of Everly Brothers songs for a one-off gig in Man hattan. Sean & Jack effectively channeled Phil & Don, and the audience effectively channeled nostalgic hysteria.
“Holly Prize”) met on stage at the famed NYC trib ute series "The Loser’s Lounge” in 2010 when Jack had just celebrated his 14th birthday
Within months The Everly Set had bought the first of ELEV EN sets of matching western shirts on EBay and hit the road. The Everly Set will be perform ing Sunday, September 25, 7 – 9 PM at 3737 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton. Tickets are available at the door, or masoncountyconcerts.org.online,
21 FJORD
Brian Cullin | Contributor
The new event “presenting sponsor” oper ates the oyster hatchery just down Linger Longer Road on the Quilcene waterfront. As the races’ biggest sponsor, they are not only providing Quilcene oysters for all the participants but major funding for educa tional scholarships as well.
QUILCENE OYSTER RACES GO BACK TO THEIR ROOTS
What’s in a name? With apologies to Shakespeare – a great deal. They could have been called the Crassostrea Gigas Races - but that species name didn’t exactly roll off the tongue. Instead, we know them as the Quilcene Oyster Races - the biggest little half marathon in the region celebrating its 10th anniversary on September 18. Oyster is a word that carries great significance on this Hood Canal shore.
The Oyster Races attract more partici pants every year but retain a welcoming smalltown feel. The races start and end at beautiful Worthington Park, home of the newly restored Victorian mansion, at the foot of the Olympic Mountains. The Half Marathon is a USATF certified and sanctioned event. The course features views overlooking Hood Canal and Quilcene Bay, and the Olympics. It is hilly and challenging, but worth it!
OYSTER RACES | SEPTEMBER 18
The First People – the Quilcene tribewere known as the "saltwater people," and shellfishing has always been central to this community. Quilcene Oysters are clean and pristine just like the area they are grown in. They are an intertidal beach cultured oyster - accustomed to fighting the tides, clamp ing tightly shut during low tides to preserve their “liquor” and to protect themselves against predators. Because of this tough life, beach raised oysters are hearty – just like the folks who call this area home. Oyster ing has always been central to the life of Quilcene Bay.
The Quilcene Historical Museum that hosts the event every year on its grounds at Worthington Park has for over thirty years been committed to telling this rich story. On this important anniversary in the history of the Quilcene Oyster Races, they and Dollars for Scholars have teamed-up with Pacific Seafood to support this great athletic event and local students.
Ron Lau, the hatchery operations manager in Quilcene, proudly notes, “We use ad vanced technology, experienced techni cians, and a superb natural environment to produce over 50 billion oyster larvae per year, making our hatchery one of the largest shellfish hatcheries in the world. We are proud to bring our commitment to quality and community to this great event – celebrating our new partnership along the shores of Quilcene Bay.” Pacific Seafood has been designated the first and only company in the world that is certified to offer Four-Star (the highest designation) Best Aquaculture Practic es oysters. The four stars signify that their hatcheries, farms, processing locations, and feed (algae they grow at the Quilcene hatchery), have all been certified by the third-party organization BAP. BAP’s certi fications are based on four pillars which in clude environmental responsibility, animal welfare and health, food safety, and social accountability. The USATF certified races are not only expanding in key partner ships like this one, but also in their reach state-wide, nationally and internationally, with runners coming from as far away as Switzerland. Despite this welcome growth, the Quil cene Oyster Races are committed to keeping their unique small town charac ter – staffed by volunteers from a local nonprofit, Count Me in for Quilcene, the runners are cheered on by local residents along beautiful forested roads and trails at the foot of the Olympics. They deliver a taste of quality as in the oyster that takes their name. For more information and signing-up to walk, jog or run (5K, 10K, ½ Marathon, or Kids Sprint) the beautiful surrounds go to: Quilraces.com and Worthington parkquilcene.org.
FJORD 22
23 FJORD Your Complete Hunting, Boating, Fishing and Repair Destination Since 1948. BIG GUN COUNTER HANDGUNS • LONG GUNS • GUN ACCESSORIES 1-877-426-0933 VERLES.COM WE OFFER A LARGE INVENTORY OF QUALITY BRANDS BLUE LABEL DEALER SMITH & WESSON, SHADOW SYSTEMS & SIG SAUER CONCEAL CARRY PURSES $89.50 Case Price Only Special ends on 8/19/2022 FEDERAL TOP GUN TARGET 12ga 2 3/4” 7.5 shot Case of 250 rounds STOCKINGGLOCKDEALER Limited to stock on hand.
This beautiful challenging nine-hole golf course near the Olympic mountains and just outside of Shelton Washington is a great course. The affordable green fees make this a terrific value for your next golfing adventure. Lake Limerick Golf Club is offering new and fun activities as we enter a new season. When their summer wine and golf lessons recently finished the fall Happy Hour golf program kicked into gear. The summer lesson participants are now di viding into non-competitive foursomes and enjoying a quick nine holes with a scramble format. Yes golf is fun, but the conversation and camaraderie after golf is even better. A new practice area will be completed this fall for expanded lessons and programs during next summer. For more information and to book your next tee time and tourna ments, call 360-426-6290
FJORD 24
Lake Limerick Golf Club and Café designs new programs for fall
25 FJORD
When guests would visit we'd gleefully encourage them to place a wad of spruce pitch in their mouth and chew it until it was beaten into the consistency of bubble gum. The sticky glue would coat our teeth and we'd spend the next hour chipping it off as we hiked. Eventually it did work, but it never actually "tasted" like bubble gum. Licorice fern could be pulled from it's mossy nest and, sinking your teeth gently into the debearded root, the savory sweetness would flood your mouth. Some times we would combine the two to get a flavored gum. Honestly, it was all quite terrible tasting.
Rachel Hansen, Fjord editor 25
TREASURES BENEATH THE POWER LINES
"Wild Edible & Medicinal Plants, Lichen and Fungi of the PNW Tour"
If you live in the Pacific Northwest you've probably entertained the fleeting dream of "living off the land." I'm definitely guilty of the notion. Growing up on a remote island off the outer coast of British Columbia I've had my share of wandering the forest with my brothers and sisters – berries, licorice root ferns, and thimble-berry shoots were happily munched as we schemed the next adventure.
Christina works with local naturalists and guides to lead her tours. Today our guide was herpetologist and professional forager, Jerry Novak. Growing up in southern California, Jerry cemented his fascination with edible and medicinal plants and fungi working Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife as a steward at an amphibian sanctuary near the Columbia River. The days connecting with the land fueled his infectious curiosity which is clearly a man tra of his current foraging tours. From the moment he pulled up in the dusty passenger van the tone was set with energy and anticipation.
The group gathered at the Hood Canal Adventure's Base Camp office located in Brinnon. Here we were met by owner and resident biologist, Christina Malo ney. Christina also operates a successful kayaking rental and tour operation at the nearby Yelvik beach. In the last few years she has expanded the company's profile to include education marine and forest tours.
Last August Tracing the Fjord videographer Jeff Slakey and I were invited to attend Hood Canal Adventures' "Wild Edible & Medicinal Plants, Lichen and Fungi of the PNW" tour. The experience reignited my desire to learn more about foraging in the Pacific Northwest.
After loading up (some participants chose the option to drive their own vehicles to the trailhead) Jerry drove us the 15-20 minutes to a Jefferson Land Trust preserve located on the Duckabush River. Literally under the power lines, we piled out in the hot August sun and surveyed the seemingly uninteresting logging slash around us. The unseen quickly became seen. Jerry reached down and grabbed a handful of dusty weeds with a head of purple flowers intertwined in the blackberry vines. His first plant was one that I had often over looked as they are an ubiquitous on the for est floor. But never had I understood their varied healing properties. Some of which, Novak claimed, rivaled those bought over the Jerrycounter.shared the historical lore of each plant and his own personal experiences using the plants for their early medicinal uses.
He expressed a disregard for writers who reported on the benefits of flora without actually testing the methods themselves.
The tour descended into a sun dappled shady giant maple glen near the Skokomish River. Here we explored different fungi and trees and even sunk our teeth into a rhizome of licorice fern.
FJORD 26
STINGING NETTLE LEAVES can be gathered for teas, soups and more. But be warned, the tiny little silica hairs break when you brush them and inject a "sting." into your skin. It is claimed that Dock leaves are the remedy for the sting but Novak feels that there is little evidence that the properties of dock counteract the nettles. Having said that, vigorous rubbing and applying the sap from the broad leaf may sooth and dislodging the silica spikes.
Despite it being mid-August and most of the plants past their prime and fungi still hidden beneath the soil, everywhere our guide stood, whether it be in an elk-trod den meadow or near the bank of the Duck abush River, there were countless oppor tunities to bring the "goodness" from the earth. You could do this walk anytime of the year and it would be an utterly different experience as the season changed. As for poisonous plants and berries, he had some advice. "If they are too easy, don't eat them." Often times the plants that have no natural protection like thorns or "stings" are actually poisonous. I mulled over this later and could think of lots of plants that this rule doesn't apply to – like Huckle or Thimble berries for example, but unless you are sure, this is a good rule to adhere to. Nighshade and Snowberry (Ghostberry) definitely fit the definition.
Mushrooms of the Olympic PeninsulaWalking Tour September 24, 25 & 30; October 2, 7, 9, 14-16, 21- 23, 28- 30; November 4, 6, 11-13, 18-20, 26-27; December 2- 4 Edible & Medicinal Plant, Lichen & FungiWalking Tour October 1; November 5 Mushrooms of the Olympic PeninsulaWalking Tour followed by Lecture with foraging author Langon Cook (sponsored by Jefferson County Libraries) October 8:
The tour concluded with picnic lunch on the beach at the Duckabush River while Jerry prepared a hot wild foraged tea for the participants. Hood Canal Adventures Fall Foraging & Fungi Tour
Schedule: Contact Christina directly, 360-301-6310, to reserve your spot or visit hoodcanalad ventures.com to book online. Cost is $59/69 per person.
FJORD 28
HIT THE TRAIL Lake Sundown is one of the few backcoun try lakes in the southern Olympic Moun tains. Remote and difficult to get to, it’s also lightly visited. The shortest approach is via rugged Wynoochee Pass. The easiest (but not easy) approach is via Graves Creek requiring a long drive to the trailhead in the Quinault River Valley.
The approach via Six Ridge is the longest and most difficult, but also stunning when it comes to scenery and a wilder ness experience. The approach described here via the South Fork Skokomish River is challenging but includes varied terrain, excellent views, and an easier to access trailhead from Hood Canal.
There are four ways to reach Lake Sundown, a pretty little body of water in the rugged and isolated southwestern corner of Olympic National Park. All of these routes are difficult and each contains their own charms and challenges. The route via the South Fork Skokomish River Valley includes miles of primeval cathedral forest along a wilderness waterway and an ascent of a 4,125-foot pass offering sweeping views of this wild landscape. If the trek to the lake is too daunting, a stroll just through the groves of ancient trees will provide a satisfying hike.
LAKE SUNDOWN
Lake Sundown features: exceptional old-growth for est, subalpine lake, wildlife viewing opportunities, and solitude.
DISTANCE: 16.4 miles roundtrip ELEVATION GAIN: 3700 feet HIGH POINT: 4125 feet DIFFICULTY: difficult SNOW FREE: July—October TRAILHEAD PASS NEEDED: None Notes: FR 2361 closed Oct 1–Apr 30 to protect wildlife. Hike involves two fords safe only in low flow; dogs prohibited at national park boundary. Camping at Lake Sundown and in Olympic National Park requires an Olympic NP wilderness camping permit. No fires above 3500'. GPS WAYPOINTS: Trailhead: N 47 28.765, W 123 27.125 Lake Sundown: N47 32.170 W123 30.691 STORY ROMANO
& PICTURES BY CRAIG
29 FJORD
While strong hikers can do this hike out and back in a day, it’s ideal for a one night backpack trip. Be sure to secure an Olympic National Park wilderness camping permit before heading out—unless you plan on camping in the national forest be fore reaching the park. There are two creek fords on this hike which can only safely be done in late summer and early fall. During this period the crossings are not much more than ankle deep. And finally, while the lake and its surrounding high country generally remain snow free through October, FR 2361 is gated on October 1st. So if you plan on doing this hike during October you’ll need to walk an additional 5.1 miles each way or mountain bike to the trailhead. From the trailhead, head north on the Upper South Fork Skokomish River following an old roadbed. Soon reach the old trailhead and continue on single track coming to a narrow shelf. Carefully wander to the edge of the trail and stare straight down at the South Fork careening through a tight chasm. At a little past a mile, cross Rule Creek on a big log bridge. Shortly after come to your first crossing of the South Fork Skokomish River. Fortunately a large fallen cedar can be used here to cross the river. Now climb above the wild waterway weaving through groves of primordial giants that’ll have you staring up to the lofty forest canopy. Con servationists were disheartened when this incredible tract of old-growth forest (one of the largest remaining expanses of old growth forest in the southern reaches of the Olympic National Park) was excluded from the 1984 Washington State Wilderness Act. Continue hiking, crossing copious side creeks before coming to camps and the second crossing of the South Fork Skokom ish River. By late summer the ford here is usually a mere rock hop. But if it looks tricky, this is a great turning around spot for a nice 5.2 mile hike. Otherwise carry on and upon reaching the far bank of the river, continue up the valley through mossy flats alongside the river bed—but not always along the river as sections of it often flow underground late in the season. The trail eventually pulls away from the river and begins climbing. And what had so far been a fairly easy hike begins to get tougher.
talaptnielbonhtpedhtoomsesne use lpp e b o u uq lte icsu tssuotcurheru suoinomra t e r r o ir flavorvigorousf in is h s t ly e bodyvelve tyd elightfulbigeleg a n t s p i c y fthgirbretcarahclateiravamoraesseni Open for Socially Distanced Tastings Fri - Sun 11am - 5pm (possibly Thursdays as well) Visit our website for the most up to date hours. Due to Covid we are open based on demand. Call ahead recommended on Weekends. Stottle Winery Tasting Room Hoodsport, WA on Hwy 101 14 Handcrafted Award Winning Wines Viognier - Tempranillo - Malbec Roussanne - Late Harvest - Blends And More Locally produced and bottle using grapes from some of the oldest and most prestigious vineyards in Washington. www.StottleWinery.com 360-877-2247 Open for Tastings in Hoodsport! HOURS: FRI, SAT & SUN 11 AM - 5 PM
Land Agency Contact: Olympic National Forest, Hood Canal Ranger District, Quilcene, (360) 765-2200, http://www.fs.usda.gov/ olympic; and Olympic National Park, Wilder ness Information Center, (360) 565-3100, www.nps.gov/olym Recommended Guidebook: Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula 2nd edition (Romano, Mountaineers Books)
Trailhead directions: From Shelton, travel north on US 101 for 7 miles, turning left at milepost 340 onto the Skokomish Valley Road (signed “Skokomish Recreation Area”). Follow for 5.6 miles, bearing right at a V intersection onto Forest Road 23. Continue for 9.3 miles bearing left at Y-junction with FR 2353. Then continue on FR 23, following this good gravel road for 4.3 miles and bearing right onto FR 2361. Then proceed 5.1 miles to trailhead at road’s end.
FJORD 30 At 4.4 miles reach Startup Creek which can be tricky to cross early in the summer. Now prepare to start climbing reaching the Olympic National Park boundary (dogs prohibited beyond) just past 5.0 miles. The trail soon afterward traverses a couple of wet meadows that showcase a myriad of flowers early in the season. Tread is absent here and navigating can be tricky. Angle to the northwest where good tread can be found again at forest edge. Don’t be led astray by elk trails. And do stay alert for these large members of the deer family. A large herd calls this valley home. Continue deeper into the wilderness. After crossing a small creek, the trail steeply climbs reaching a small open basin graced with wildflowers in early summer and sparkling tarns providing the headwaters of the South Fork Skokomish River. Now reenter forest and steeply climb once more reaching forested 4,124-foot Sundown Pass. A short descent awaits you next through meadows providing good views of Wynoochee Pass and the Graves Creek drainage. Mount Olympus can be seen in the distance. At 7.8 miles, come to a junction. Left leads to Wynoochee Pass and the North Fork Quinault River. You want to go right here through a pretty basin reaching Lake Sundown (elev. 3810 feet) in 0.4 mile. Situated in a semi-open emerald basin on the western flank of Six Ridge, the lake is a pretty sight. A couple of campsites can be found at the old shelter site near the lake’s outlet. To catch the sunset, you’ll need to work your way to the eastern shore to look west across the lake to peaks and ridges beyond. On a warm day the lake’s refreshing waters make for a good dip. Savor the soli tude and serenity of this remote backcoun try lake. You worked hard to experience it!
Who doesn't love a parade! Head over to Quilcene Saturday. September 17, 11 AM for the annual community parade that follows Highway 101 from the Quilcene Post Office to US Bank. Afterwards enjoy the fair exhibits and the classic car displays as well as live music and great food!
A Rare treasure in a time of vanishing small town traditions
The Parade and Fair celebrate the Quil cene and Brinnon communities and each year attracts a variety of vendors including unique crafts, handmade soaps, jewelry, clothing, home decor, artwork, and treats. There will be live music and the Exhibit Hall will be located this year outside under a tent. Crafters and artists young and old are invited to bring their creations to be judged and displayed. In addition to arts and crafts, there is a Lego creations com petition. The Quilcene Garden Club will be in the tent again this year with a flower arrangement contest and vegetable contest. The Quilcene Lion's Club will be grilling cheese burgers and selling corn dogs onsite along with several other local food vendors.
The Fair and Parade Association in conjunction with the South County Classic Cruisers Car Club (SCCC) is once again hosting an Annual Car Show at the Fair from 10 AM to 3 PM The SCCC welcomes any and all car enthusiasts to enter their ve hicle into this year’s car show, for an entry fee of $10.
Three trophies will be awarded based on public judging. The award categories will be: Best in Show, Best Hot Rod, and Best Classic Car.
There are lots of family activities as well including live music and, new this yearlaser tag and carnival games for kids of all ages! For details visit quilcenefair.org and start making plans for a very busy weekend in Quilcene!
photoFairQuilcene octopus garden jewelry unique items | silver & gold local artwork and gifts coastal decor (360) 877-5530 24180 N HWY 101, SUITE C HOODSPORT, WA Visit Our Etsy Store: OctopusGardenNW quilcenefair.org
31 FJORD
QUILCENE FAIR & PARADE, SEPTEMBER 17
Local folks, as well as, visitors line the high way to see dignitaries, floats, classic cars, logging trucks, and whatever else happens to show up. For local residents – you are either in the Parade or watching it. It is a wonderful and quintessential, small town procession – a rare treasure in a time of vanishing small towns.
FJORD 32
Alumni's car is a 1992 Toyota Paseo thats been stripped of everything that makes it street legal. A roll cage is added to the car and protective gear will protect the Thedrivers.way Mike taught these former stu dents plus his genuine care he gave are the reasons these students came back for this project.
Oysterfest kick-off event, promises great music, food, drink – & oysters!
Hundreds of walkers/runners show up each year to participate in the Shuck & Share 5K Walk/Run, which happens on OysterFest Sunday. Proceeds from the race help fund Mason PUD 3’s Project Share program.
OysterFunk in Shelton begins Friday, September 30, at 6PM Gates open at 6 PM with live music start ing at 7PM featuring rock covers by the Varmints. Beer and oysters as well as local food trucks will be available all evening. This event is 21+ and raises money for local non profit groups. The event is hosted by the Shelton Rotary Club. Gather your friends together and help us welcome the return of OysterFest. Details available at oysterfest.org
In the school, during the CTE classes, leadership and teamwork are some of the traits that he taught along with the skills that could get the students ASE certified and those skills are all transferable into any workforce application. The community is strongly encouraged to support the SHS Alumni Race team at their race in October, in the stands (wear red & black), or if you're a company or private individual that wants to financially support the team – they would welcome that as well. There is more that has gone into the car than just the $500.00 to buy it. For more details and to track their progress, find the team on Facebook at SHS Alumni LearnRacing.more about “Smells Like AMC Spirit 2022” Oct 15-Oct 16, 2022 at The Ridge website. All weekend/all access passes for attendees are just $30, under 16 are free.
In a barn out around Deckerville you can hear the sounds of tinkering and tuning, revving and revelry as five Shelton High School Graduate work with their former instructor on a car for a race at The Ridge Motorsports park in Shelton in October.
Halloween meets Gasoline at Ridge Motorsports Park
"Gasoline meets Halloween" is how Mike (Mr. Beyer to his students) describes the event, Smells Like AMC Spirit 2022, coming to Shelton October 15 & 16. It's a take of the historic 24-hour LeMans race in Europe, this with a bit of a twist - a lemon twist to be exact. Racers are only allowed to spend $500 into the car itself (not includ ing safety features - they can go crazy on that part), that's why the race is referred as a historic 24-hour Lemons Race (2 12-hour Sheltonraces.)
Shuck & Share 5K Walk/Run, October 2
Project Share is a customer-funded pro gram helping families in crisis situations who need help paying their electric bills. Through the generosity of donors, more than 300 low-income families are helped each year. As other sources of aid contin ue to dwindle, more customers rely on Project Share for assistance. For more than 30 years, Mason PUD 3 customers and employees have generously funded Project Share. The Shuck & Share Walk/Run began in 2014 as a way to raise awareness (and funds) for the program. The run attracts about 200 runners each year and raises approximately $3,000 for the program. Mason PUD 3 employees and local com munity members volunteer their time to organize the race each year. Success de pends upon volunteers and sponsorships. This year’s 5K takes place on October 2 at 8 AM, located at the Huff N’ Puff across from the Shelton High School. It is a nice, flat, 5K loop. You do not need to be a PUD 3 customer to participate, simply donate, or register at www.pud3.org/run.
OCTOBER 1 - 2 Saturday: 10AM – 6PM Sunday:10AM – 5PM Adults $10 | Youth 8-17 $5 Kids under 5 (FREE) FREE PARKING & Shuttle Tickets available online in advance or at the gate! Friday, September 30 6 – 10 PM | Beer Garden Live music: The Varmints Food/Beer Garden (21+ ONLY) Tickets $5/available at the gate
OysterFest returns after two year COVID hiatus
For four decades “OysterFest” has been an important part of fall in Mason County. Although food and drink anchor the festivities, the event heralds the return of oyster season – there is much to see and do for the whole family. This celebration has a profound impact on local non-profits who are excited to be back live in Shelton.
33 FJORD Mason PUD 3 Our Power is Water Hydropower is the most PoweringenergyabundantsourceintheNorthwest.ourhomesandbusinesseswiththecleanestenergyinthecountry.
The Washington State Seafood Fes tival (AKA OysterFest) is celebrating it's 40th anniversary in 2022 (19822022). Hosted and presented by the Skookum Rotary Club, members and their families come together to create an event that assists local non-profits as addresses local issues like water quality and shoreline stewardship. Don’t miss the excitement on the Shucking Stage as professional shuckers compete for cash prizes and national recognition. Beyond the food, beers, wines, and entertainment, local agency displays offer free activities while the Marine Education Science Society (MESS) marine touch tanks allow families to get close with crabs, starfish, and sea cucumbers. This and more has made the Washington State Seafood Festival a much anticipated family OysterFestevent. runs October 1 and 2, admission is $10 for adults, $5 kids, parking is free. oysterfest.org
Have you seen the aquamarine tropical color of Hood Canal recently? It looks other-worldly, but never fear, this phenomena that is becoming more often then in past years, is not known to be toxic to humans or shellfish. The glorious color is caused by a single celled plankton that is surrounded with calcite plates known as "coccoliths." These plates scatter more light than they absorb making the surface waters brighter. In areas of the Canal where nutrients are flowing in, such as Eagle Creek (above), you can see the bloom pull away from the shoreline.
COCCOLITH TROPICAL HUES
FJORD 34
Youth Ride Free on Ferries and Buses
Mason County Transportation Authority received over 1.5 million from the Rural Mobility Grant from 2019-21. Jefferson County was awarded $217,558.
Photo credit: Jeff Slakey
Starting in September anyone 18 and under can ride free on buses and trains across the Puget Sound. Youth will be able to ride free on Washington State Ferries starting October 1. Parents or guardians can ride free on buses and trains with their children during the month of September as they help youth learn how to ride. The Free Youth Transit Pass program was made possible by Move Ahead Washington – a $16.9 billion transportation package passed by the Leg islature in March 2022. The package includes investments in public transportation, carbon reduction, multimodal expan sion, hybrid-electric ferries, ultra-high-speed rail, complete streets and local transit projects. Move Ahead Washington incentivized local public transit agencies to provide free rides to youth by tying funding to a free youth transit pass. Kitsap Transit alone will receive an estimated $4.7 million each year in grant funding over the next 16 years after Kitsap Transit’s Board of Commission ers passed a resolution in July approving the fare-free policy.
Seraph has toured extensively and many members of Seraph Brass performed with Adele on her 2016 North American tour. Seraph has commissioned works by Catherine McMichael and Rene Orth, featured on Asteria. As featured soloists with band, Seraph performed Rick DeJonge’s Prelude and Fantasy with the Rowan University Wind Ensemble, under the di rection of Joseph Higgins, and James Stephenson’s Dodecafecta with the Bucknell University Wind Ensemble, under the direction of William Kenny. Seraph Brass will be perform Monday, October 24, 7 – 9 PM at 3737 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton. Tickets are available at the door, or purchase masoncountyconcerts.org.online, 360.898.2481 | hcc.net Internet. To learn more and apply hcc.net/acpvisit
SERAPH BRASS – Monday, October 24, 2022
35
VINYL RADIO – Wednesday, January 25, 2023
FJORD
Hood Canal Communications believes everyone should have fast reliable internet and participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program. ACP is a federal government program providing qualifying households a discount of up to $30, $75 on tribal lands, off their monthly internet service. Affordable MARK IN YOUR CALENDAR: THE EVERLY SET – Sunday, September 25, 2022
Seraph Brass visits Shelton Performing Arts Center, October 24 Winners of the 2019 American Prize in Chamber Music, Seraph Brass is a dynamic ensemble drawing from a roster of America's top female brass players. The Mason County Concert Association included them in their 2022/23 Concert Season.
Seraph Brass released its debut album, Asteria, on Summit Re cords, winning a Silver Medal Global Music Award. Seraph Brass is in residency at the Walton Art Center’s Artosphere Festival, with the Dover Quar tet, in the festival orchestra. Seraph has toured throughout the U.S., Mexico, China and Europe. The group has per formed multiple concerts at the Lieksa Brass Week in Finland, and it has been the featured ensemble at the International Women’s Brass Conference and the International Trum pet Guild Conference. Other performance highlights include the Forum Cultural Guanajuato in León, Mexico, Dame Myra Hess Concerts in Chicago (IL), Gettysburg Concert Association (PA) and the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach. road trip-worthy bites: 5101 E Hwy 106, Union, WA 98592unioncitymarket.com 360.898.3500
SULTANS OF STRING – Friday, March 17, 2023 Visit masoncountyconcerts.org for full schedule details & event additions.
YOU WILL OUR OYSTERS. We sure do. 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. We are pleased to join other local oyster farms to support the Marine Education Science Society at the 2022 OysterFest by shucking oysters on the half shell. We’re proud to be a small farm in Mason County. 866-922-7469 PO BOX 622, SHELTON WA 98584 southsoundoysters.com SEA NYMPH Oysters & Clams THE FJORD OYSTER BANK Proudly served at the Oyster Bank Hoodsport, Wash.
By Stella Wenstob, MA Case Inlet, at the mariner’s northeastern edge of Mason County, is home to many magical island getaways. Reach Island (AKA Treasure Island), verdant Stretch Island, secretive Herron Island, tiny McMicken Island, and Harstine Island all have interesting histories and unique characters.
37 FJORD
Adam and Sarah Eckert farm, 1904 Photo by Albert Henry Barnes, Courtesy UW Special Collections (3524) Harstine Island 37
A Case Study of Islands in the Inlet
Allyn Grapeview Shelton Stretch Island Reach Island McMicken Island Squaxin Island Hope Island
The water access provided by Case Inlet linked the early forestry and settlement farming of this area to Tacoma and Olym pia. In the beginning Squaxin dugout canoes, row boats and temperamental sailboats were the main transportation. Small side-wheel freight ships (powered by coal, wood, and later diesel), known as the Mosquito Fleet, came to replace these early methods. They transported freight and passengers, shipped milled lumber, and even towed logs, connecting these remote communities and homesteads. Reach Island The first island we encounter heading from north to south down Case Inlet is Reach Island. The entirety of Reach Island was pre-empted and homesteaded by Joseph Pickford in 1885. By 1905, it was an es tablished farm run by the Zizz family with cows, chickens, and fruit trees. Little farms like this were a major part of the Washing ton economy. Grapevines early on became After Adam Eckert passed away his lands and extensive grapevines were purchased by Charles Somers in 1918. Somers in part nership with his brother Frank expanded the business and began shipping to San Francisco. In 1922, the town of Detroit changed its name to Grapeview to reflect this growing resource. Herron Island important players in the agricultural scene of Case Inlet, or as it came to be known in the mid-1920s – the “grape belt of Washington.” Stretch Island Stretch Island saw the first efforts of grape growing on the inlet. Civil War veteran, Lambert Evans is credited with intro ducing the first concord grapevines to the island 150 years ago this year. Adam Eckert arriving in 1889 developed these into Washington’s own hybrid the Island Belle. This purply-red variety was hardi er and ripened more successfully in the coastal climate. Freight ships, such as the Skookum Chief would transport the Eckert Fruit Com pany’s fruit juice and grapes packed in round 6-pound wooden baskets to market in Shelton, Olympia, Tacoma, and Seattle.
Just a little South of Stretch Island is Harstine Island. At over 18 squares miles it is the third largest island in the inland Puget Sound (after Bainbridge and Vashon), yet it is a sleepy wooded island with a population barely touching 1,500.
St. Charles Winery, Grapeview, Stretch Island, ca. 1940 Courtesy Washington State Historical Society
According to the Harstine Island Commu nity Club website, easy trees were harvested along the shores for lumber which was towed by Ed Cowan’s Levina and Raymond and John Haskell’s 40-foot launch the Marie to the sawmill at Taylor Bay. The Community Hall held many popular dances and events with people coming by boat all the way from Agate, Stadium and Vaughn to attend. To this day it is a popular gathering spot for the Harstine Incommunity.1922,the county established a ferry service crossing Pickering Passage. The 40-foot scow, the Island Belle (named for the popular grape) was their first ferry. She was built by Ira Libby of Hammersley Inlet with the help of Earl Harriman. She was designed from a ferry in operation on Lake Crescent.
St. Charles "Chateau Olympic," 1935; Washington State Historical Society Collection Charles Somers's vineyard, Stretch Island, 1943 Courtesy MOHAI
Vineyards throughout the area, especially on Harstine Island and along Pickering Passage added to their supply of grapes. In 1955, St. Charles processed over 500 tons of grapes from Mason County and another almost 300 tons from Yakima Valley. Although by 1965, the St. Charles winery had sold and the wine with it, there still exists on the Somers’ property on Stretch Island the original vine planted by Lambert Evans in 1872. Though not as popular, local vineyards still grow Island Belle and u-pick grape yards were a popular fall pastime until the 1980s. Hoodsport Winery still ferments Puget Sound Island Belle grapes. The wine is described as “a red wine bursting with flavors of fresh raspberries and cherries. A perfect wine for picnics and barbecues.” Harstine Island
Historically, residents were pioneer loggers (like Robert G. Jarrell of Jarrell Cove State Park fame), farmers, oystermen, fishermen and opportunistic captains (and many res idents were all the above). Since the Island was only connected to the mainland in 1969 by bridge, traveling by water was very important to all aspects of life. Many famed Mosquito fleet captains lived here, building business and homes. The historic Commu nity Hall was built in 1914.
FJORD 38
In 1933, when the Federal laws known as Prohibition were lifted, Charles Somers was the very first applicant to be granted a winery permit in the 15th District (this included Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana). St. Charles Winery started small with a French vintner overseeing the first casks of the only 3,000 gallons produced. Charles Somers’ sons Charles W. "Bill" Somers and Howard Somers joined the family business and by 1935 they were pro ducing 38,000 gallons. Bill oversaw grow ing the fruit and harvesting and Howard (who specialized in chemical engineering at UW) took over the fermentation.
UNDER THE BRIDGE In 1922 Mason County provided a ferry service to Harstine Island. The Island Belle was a scow equipped with a lifting ramp on each end so cars could drive on and off. Island Belle could transport three vehicles, and made three departures a day, three days a week. The ferry crossed Pickering Passage to a landing on the west side of Harstine Island. In 1929, Mason County replaced Island Belle with Harstine I, and, in 1945, Harstine II replaced Harstine I. In 1969 the ferry was replaced by a bridge.
Earl Harriman and his wife Mabel (daughter of Captain John Haskell above) were a staple of the community. Earl drove the ferry for 27 years and Mabel assisted him deck-handing when necessary. Mabel was also the chief local correspondent of Harstine Island, Pickering and Agate for the Shel ton Mason County Journal for many years.
A historic cannon was found in the hall attic. In order to set it off in honor of the centennial celebration, Jim Anderson pieced it back together at his home, and tested it out (with success). However, for the public display – it exploded. Thank fully no one was hurt but a piece went through the men’s bathroom wall. Besides the Women’s Club, the Theater Club also uses the hall. Founded in 1984 by actress Shirl Conway Larson (Banjo Eyes, Plain and Fancy, The Nurses) the group often pulls from the talent of the islanders. In the 1990’s Gene Nelson took over direction and brought many musicals to the hall.
Hall Historian Sandy Murphy took Tracing The Fjord on a tour of the facility that has been providing support for the islanders since it was built in 1914, before the bridge was added to connect with the mainland.
Most recently, in 2022, Daniel Frishman (Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi, Amazing Stories, Ewoks: The Battle for Endor, Nightcourt) took over the director's chair and now leads the club. The hall boasts a large stage, great lighting and a powerful sound system. Each year the Club performs a series of community presenta tions including a Holiday program.
THE HEART OF THE ISLAND: Spotlight on the Harstine Community Hall
The Community Hall boasts detailed records that talk about the issues of the day including the uproar when club dues were raised from a nickel to a dime and at the centennial celebration of the Women’s Club (2016), when members dressed in period pieces and reenacted key moments from its history.
Community members built the hall on land donated by Andrew Johnson to provide dances, sporting events, and Grange events. Back in the day dances cost a whole .50 cents. Participation waned in the late ‘40s as World War II raged on and it was the Women’s Club, (founded 1916) who worked as the life line to keep the hall in good condition.
The building itself now boasts a unique bit of recent history. A visit into the men’s bathroom will reveal broken boards signi fying “The Shot Heard Around The Island.”
The Harstine Island Garden Club is an other group of island residents who gather to share stories and garden knowledge, understanding the unique micro-climates the island has to offer. The Garden Club also participates in the Pioneer School Gar den and Greenhouse Program. May is the month for their plant sale and the Farmers Market is indoor and outdoor, depending on the season.
FJORD 40 With two load aprons she could carry three cars at a time, which would drive through on one end and unload on the other. She made the crossing in 30 minutes with her Fairbanks-Morse10-horse power engine, which drove by belt two side-paddle Shewheels.was replaced in 1929 by Earl Harriman who built his own log ferry to increase the capacity. Do nette Glaser remembers that “ Earl was a pioneer of ferries. In those days, whenever we needed a new ferry Earl would tow a few logs and start building a new conveyance.”(Shelton Mason County Journal, March 26, 1959). This was soon replaced by the County’s Harstine I , and then the Harstine II in 1945 (eight car capacity).
FJORD
Captain Glenn Yates ran the Harstine II on her last crossing on Sunday, June 22, 1969 at 2 PM as the new Harstine bridge opening was celebrated with a parade, boat flotilla, and punch at the Harstine Com munity Hall. The traffic lined up on the mainland side of the bridge was further than any local had ever seen at a ferry wait. As the Captain’s wife, Carmen Yates, remarked at the time: “The Island… saw its first major traffic jam that day. If anyone would have told me 25 years ago when I came to the island that one day I’d be involved in a traffic snarl that would take three deputies to unravel I would have just laughed at such an idea…. And talk about waiting in line for a ferry How about that line that formed to go across the bridge? It extended from the bridge all the way past the ferry-landing as far as any of the longest ferry lines ever reached.” (Shelton Mason County Journal June 26, 1969). With the new bridge, development on the island picked up as new residents and vaca tioners were attracted to the island life. This coincided with a popular developmental trend during the late 50s to 60s for logging companies such as Talbot & Sons Ltd. and Weyerhaeuser to revitalize their unique land holdings into private residential gated Thecommunities.entiretyof Reach and Herron Island and the northern tip of Harstine Island ex perienced such development. Herron Island is only accessible by a private ferry from the Kitsap Peninsula, and you must be endorsed by a community member to visit. The development on Treasure (Reach) and Harstine Islands, however, are much more public as both are connected to the main land by bridge and many cabins and houses in the community are available for short term rental. Much of Harstine Island offer excellent island diversions for a dat trip.
A Day on the Islands Harstine Island is home to the Wild Felid Advocacy Center. Scheduled tours gets you right you right up close with about 50 wild cats from 13 species including a pair of tigers named Suri and Tabbi, a cougar, different leopards, and many others from five continents around the world. Visit wildfelids.org for more information on the differenttours you can reserve.
41
On Harstine Island Jarrell Cove State Park is popular with boaters and campers alike; less developed Harstine Island Park offers tranquil beach time; and McMicken Island Marine Park (see paeg 69) offers a unique low tide hike across a tidal land bridge. Not to be forgotten, Stretch Island has one state park which is accessible only by water. Community, history, great enterprises, and the importance of bridges all make up the waters of this meandering "Case" study on an Inlet’s islands.
VOTE '22
The 35th is a large district, encompassing most of Mason County and parts of South ern Kitsap and Northern Thurston. This election cycle both positions for the House of Representatives and the State Senate are open. Running for State Senate is 35th District Representative for the House, Drew MacEwen (R-Union). He is being challenged by Democrat Julianna Gale.
Recreational growth is encouraging, especially with the efforts this year with festivities such as Hoodstock, Fjordin Crossin, and Pumpkin Catapult tied to traditions from both our area and beyond.
Couture – Protecting our waterways in the 35th District is critical for our local econo my and for our way of life. I’m reminded of a tour I once took to learn about growing oysters in our region, and how delicate that ecosystem is. We have some of the best shellfish in the world, and that industry is threatened by polluted waters. Govern ment is one of the biggest polluters, and we have seen this recently with massive sewer leaks into waterways, and protecting our waterways and recreational growth go hand in hand. Recreation around the Fjord is important to us as a community, but also is a big part of our tourism and export economy that those of us who live here rely upon to provide for our families. As State Representa tive, I would like to work with stakeholders to bring innovative technologies that help mitigate negative externalities, as well crack down on foul runoff from government proj ects and systems into our water. (continued page 44)
DeHart – I will look at all legislation having to do with our marine environment or highways and ensure that it meets rigorous environ mental standards set forth by the EPA and other protection groups. I would then work to involve those groups in the analyzation to determine any risks to the environment and weigh the pros and cons of the bills. This will ensure that we are working to better our area in as many ways possible improving the lives of the constituents and saving our environment for generations to come.
MacEwen - I will continue on my track record to keep our waterways healthy. I cosponsored and had signed into law the derelict vessel bill, was a member of the Orca recovery task force, and a strong advocate for our hatcheries. We need to maintain critical infrastructure that supports and protects our waterways. I will continue to champion these in the senate.
While we generally avoid politics, we do think it’s important to talk with the candidates who will be representing the 35th District of Washington State and try to learn what they will do as stewards of the area.
November 8 is fast approaching. This edition of Tracing The Fjord finds us right in the middle of election season.
The House of Representatives Position 1 Race features current 35th District Repre sentative Dan Griffey (R-Allyn) taking on Democrat James DeHart. The House of Representative Position 2 race is an open contest with Republican Travis Couture up against Democrat Sandy Kaiser.
FJORD 42
Tracing The Fjord’s Jeff Slakey reached out to the six candidates in the race and asked them each the same questions regarding our area.
Question: WHAT WILL YOU DO TO PROTECT OUR WATER WAYS FOR FUTURE AQUACULTURE AND RECRE ATIONAL GROWTH AROUND THE FJORD? Gale - Our lives and livelihoods both depend on clean water. Protecting our waterways leads to increased economic stability in our commu nity. I will work hard to increase state support for local restoration projects, polluter account ability, and effective climate change solutions. These actions will benefit everyone by reducing flooding, reducing wildfires, improving con ditions for salmon and oysters, and ensuring a livable future for all. By working together, we can leave a good legacy of clean water, economic stability, and healthy ecosystems for future generations to enjoy.
Taylor Shellfish Farms and the Squaxin Island Tribe are supporting my campaign be cause they know my commitment to ensure state resources and laws are strengthened to protect our waterways.
Kaiser – Improving and conserving our local waterways is extremely important to me. The health of Hood Canal and Puget Sound are vital to our world-class seafood industry, our incredible recreational opportunities and our well-being. Working at the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, I helped protect and conserve these aquatic treasures. In my current role as vice president of the board of the Capitol Land Trust, I am part of a team to conserve essential habitat for shellfish and salmon throughout our region.
Griffey - Water quality is of the utmost importance, and I am in contact with our aquaculture leaders large and small to respond to any concerns. We know that catastrophic sewer failures in metropolitan areas do occur often. We need a rapid, decisive, and adequate response. We also need to ensure that we stop encouraging immense sewer systems that allow for such extensive damage when they do fail. Another simple low cost, effective solution to promote water quality is settlement ponds designed to filter out contaminants such as oil and tiny tire particles that stream into our waterways directly from our roads. I am committed to ensuring that our waterways are safe to be enjoyed for generations to come.
Your Complete Hunting, Boating, Fishing and Repair Destination Since 1948. 1-877-426-0933 VERLES.COM PNW’STACKLE,REELS,RODS,BAIT&MORE!BEST FISHING STOREPUNCHCARDSNIGHTCRAWLERS Buy 9 dozen, get your 10th dozen FREE! $1.99 baker’s SALMONSALTWATERdozenSPOON Buy 12 get one FREE! Free item is of equal value or less. FLASHER FRIDAYS ARE BACK! BUY MORE – SAVE MORE! 10% OFF 1 flasher • 20% OFF 2 flashers, 30% OFF 3 or more flashers Fridays ONLY! thru August 19, 2022 DANCO FILLET KNIFE Model ST-3201-6 $1.82 each Limit 4. Special ends on 8/9/22 SALMON • TROUT • BASS • STEELHEAD TUNA • HALIBUT • BOTTOM FISH ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 20% off 2 or more flashers Fillet Knives in stock 15% off retail thru October 31,2022
Kaiser – The majority party in the Legisla ture is the one that can create budgets and pass laws. That is the Democratic party. The most positive legislative change 35th District voters can make this year is to elect a rural Democrat. That way we will have a seat at the decision-making table and we can make sure our region’s priorities are reflected in the big budget and policy decisions that will be made next year in Olympia. Couture – Washington State has the lowest per-capita police in the entire United States, and 35th district counties have some of the lowest per-capita police in the State. We must do more to ensure that our rural district is not a soft target for crime from neighboring pop ulous counties, including assisting with hiring incentives to get more police on our roads. It is unacceptable to have a handful of deputies to cover 1,000 square miles of land and water ways in Mason County, and I want to help fix that by introducing legislation that would have the State assist with funds to help recruit and hire more police officers. We also need to fix short-sighted police reform legislation that handcuffed our police and prevents them from keeping us safe. Safety is paramount, and as a veteran and supporter of first responders, protecting my constituents from crime will be a top priority.
MacEwen - Reform of the growth management act. Currently the GMA has largely prevented the building of affordable housing through re strictions that just do not work or are practical.
Griffey – We live in a beautiful rural setting many visit but few understand unless they live here. We have the same issues that are in the more urban settings but often lack the resources to address them properly. One of the issues at the forefront is mental health and homelessness. This may fly under the radar for those visiting here. Truth be told, my oldest daughter is grappling with this in our community. I have been to every homeless camp in Mason County searching for her and getting to know those struggling with addiction, mental health issues and the crisis of being without a roof over their head. The roots causes are exten sive and varied. What is not is our approach to resolving it. I went through the entire process to help my daughter and was met with wall after wall. I enlisted the help of a Democrat colleague in Olympia. She came to Mason County, and we looked at the programs to help those in crisis. I am sad to report that we uncovered more obstacles than paths. We are teaming up to identify where and how we can improve. I often bring my urban colleagues to our area to point out where we are succeeding too. Working together brings better solutions for everyone.
Many of these crimes are repeated by the same individuals over and over and have become a way of life. Some crimes are committed by those who need mental health intervention. We would be remiss if we did not include this when addressing the crisis. As always, I have an open door and my cell is 360-204-9636. Con tact me anytime with your ideas and solutions. I work directly for you, and it is an honor.
Griffey – We need to hold criminals account able. The new police reforms passed by the leg islature and signed by the Governor, not only ignored crime but encouraged it. We did not fix the most critical issues in the last legislative session, one of those being police pursuit.
Couture – I have lived in rural areas all of my life, and I feel I have a set of values and priorities I share with most in the district. Rural com munities survive on heart and hard work, but sometimes lack the resources to solve some of our critical issues. In a rural community we all pitch in to make things better, and I have spent years donating to or supporting many causes like the Turning Pointe Survivor Advocacy Cen ter, or contributing to projects at Theler Center to give back. My priorities of restoring public safety, improving education, providing tax relief, providing more freight mobility, reducing traffic congestion, and protecting constitutional rights are what I will lead with in the legislature as a voice for rural Washington. These priorities will drive at obtaining resources we desperately need and deserve in rural areas surrounding issues that affect us daily, and I will vigorously defend our rural way of life.
FJORD 44 (continued from page 42) Question: MOST OF THE 35TH IS CONSIDERED RURAL, HOW WILL YOU WORK TO KEEP PRIOR ITIES OF RURAL WASHINGTONIANS FRONT AND CENTER IN THE LEGISLATURE?
There is no victimless crime. We cannot stand by and allow our community to be ransacked.
Gale - I am a rural Washingtonian myself. I am running for state senate because I want to make sure that rural voices are represented in state government. In order to accurately represent the voices of our community, I will prioritize mak ing myself available to the people who live here.
The GMA was passed into law when our state's population was just over 4 million. Today it is 7.5 million. The GMA is not working for rural Washington. We can maintain a rural environment and build affordable housing, but not under the current law.
Kaiser – I’m a fourth-generation Washingtonian descended from loggers and farmers who lives on Puget Sound in rural Thurston County. I believe in hard work, love of family, community and country and that everyone deserves a fair chance at success. We talk to our neighbors, and solve problems together, instead of partisan finger-pointing. Those are the rural values I will bring to the Legislature, as I reach out to folks on both sides of the aisle to get things done. It worked for me as an American diplomat, when I was able to accomplish a lot by being willing to talk to people who didn’t always agree with me.
MacEwen - Over my 10 years in the legislature I have developed deep bipartisan relationships. This has given me the ability to work not only across the aisle but also across communities to ensure our voice is heard.
As a largely rural district, we belong at the cen ter of statewide policy decisions. As your state senator, I will make sure that policy decisions reflect our rural values, such as protecting natu ral resources, investing in local family-wage jobs, and keeping rural housing affordable.
Gale - My job as your future state senator will be to make sure that our district has the resources it needs to thrive. We need to in crease investment in our rural and small-town communities. Our young people deserve to live their dreams here without having to leave to find opportunities. Our elders deserve to enjoy retirement without fear of losing their homes to rising property taxes. All of us deserve a sen sible transition to a livable future with healthy ecosystems, local economic stability, abundant clean water, long-living forests, and a stable climate for generations to come.
Having the ultra-wealthy pay their fair share will help our struggling families afford their bills, create affordable housing, and improve our infrastructure and improve the lives of those most forgotten by Washington’s regres sive tax system.
Question: WHAT IS ONE LEGISLATIVE CHANGE THAT COULD BENEFIT THE 35TH THE MOST?
DeHart - Our rural communities are the heart of our state. Rural priorities tend to lean towards privacy and equity. Rural areas are often the low est paid population and finding a way to bring funding to these areas will help bring pay equity and will improve infrastructure projects for rural growth and living wages. Keeping my constit uents at the forefront of the decision making process is a top priority.
DeHart - Lowering taxes for the poor and middle class will benefit the people of the 35th.
THINGS TO DO FALLS TO FISHING MAP/LODGING45 HOOD CANAL AREA MAP/LODGING49-55 SHELTON & KAMILCHE 48
KAYAKING
#WILDSIDEWA
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.
Situated between the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains in Mason County, is Hood Canal. A place filled with world-class activities, wild-caught fare, lively events, and plenty of places to hide away from it all when you just want the world to yourself. Hood Canal is Washington’s wild side. And it’s here for you, when you’re ready to discover yours.
TRAILS & WALKS
CLEAR YOUR MIND AND GO CHASING WATERFALLS
MOTORSPORTS
HIGH STEEL BRIDGE Soaring 420' above the Skokomish River, the High Steel Bridge (1929), is the highest steel truss arch bridge in Washington. You won’t even need to leave the car for this breathtaking view. Follow Skokomish Valley Rd 11 miles from Hwy 101 to reach the bridge.
World-class hiking trails lace the Olympic Mountain wilderness, leading from mountain stream beds through old growth forest to high-altitude ridge lines with breathtaking views of Hood Canal and beyond.
Hamma Hamma & Rocky Brook are just two of the many falls on Hood Canal waiting to be explored. Want to plan a waterfall getaway? Visit waterfalltrail.org for 25 unique and special places to visit.
EXPERIENCE THE WILD SIDE OF WASHINGTON
Like a giant fish hook weaving beneath the Olympics with a web of inlets, Hood Canal is poised to catch your imagination and reel in memories for years to come. This majestic saltwater fjord hosts unparalleled shellfish, shrimp, crab, and salmon and is renown as a diving mecca with its glacial formation causing underwater biomes that appear nowhere else. Venture away from the canal to Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest for hiking and thrilling vistas. Choose from hundreds of easy access freshwater lakes or revel in waterfall views including the iconic High Steel Bridge. Ablaze with wildflowers in the spring, hidden swimming holes in the summer, a chance to see spawning salmon in the fall, and snow-capped peaks in the winter, there is never an inopportune time to visit Hood Canal.
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.
FISHING From open water trolling on the sound to throwing dry flies on small lowland lakes, there are plenty of fishing opportunities in the area. Seek colossal coho in the fall and hungry trout in the spring to see why every season is fishing season in Hood Canal.
RIDE THE RAILS May through October experience nature and history pedaling the timber rail on a 2- hour quadricycle vancecreekrailriders.comexcursion.
TAKE A LEAP We love the folks at SKYDIVE KAPOWSIN! Feel the adrenaline pumping rush of free-fall and experience the freedom of the air with highly trained professional instructors. Views of the fjord and the Olympics and a seven minute free fall adrenaline rush from 13,000 feet will definitely change your outlook.
BIKING Don the helmet and clip into your pedals, for there is no shortage of road or trail from which to experience the beauty and thrill of this landscape
TAHJA-SYRETTTOBYPHOTO:
PICK A PEAK From easy day hikes with the family to overnights or “experience needed” excursions – you don’t have to go far for spectacular memories!
TASTING YOUR WAY AROUND THE CANAL & SOUND Do a farm-to-table dining loop experiencing some Northwest flavors – including Hama Hama, Hardware Distillery, Stottle, Hood Canal Winery, Olympic Mountain Ice Cream. 47
48 ALDERBROOK GOLF (360) 898-2560 | UP&contours.Paralderbrookgolf.comUnion72coursefollowsnaturalRestaurant,loungeproshoponsite.YOURGOLF GAME LAKE CUSHMAN GOLF (360) 877-5505 | lengingthisInlakecushmangolfcourse.comHoodsporttheOlympicMountainforest,9-holecourseplaysachal18holes. LAKE LIMERICK GOLF (360) 426-6290 | Shelton Thelakelimerick.comgentlehillsmake this a challenging round of golf. Restaurant & pro shop. Award-winning courses with incredible views of the Olympics on lush fairways – Hood Canal and South Puget Sound are ideal destinations. LAKELAND VILLAGE (360) 275-6100 | courseandWithlakelandliving.comAllynviewsoftheOlympicsMountRainier,the27-holehasworldclassdining. SALISH CLIFFS GOLF (360) 462-3673 | Kamilche 18-holesalish-cliffs.compar&72 championship course is adjacent to LITTLE CREEK CASINO RESORT, a full service resort & casino. SHELTON DISC GOLF BlvdsectioninholeDifferentmasoncountydiscgolf.comtypeofgolf?18-discgolfcourselocatedthewatershedattheinterofWallaceKneeland&SheltonSpringsRd. CRUISE THE HOOD Explore the canal with your own boat or arrange with ALDERBROOK RESORT. Scheduled & private charters available. alderbrookresort.com
SCUBA DIVING Scuba sales, air, training, rentals, and charters available at Hoodsport near renowned destinations like SUND ROCK and OCTOPUS HOLE yssdive.com
OLYMPICBIRDTRAIL.ORG
ON THE WATER Hood Canal occupies 150 square miles of the Olympic Peninsula and bellies up to the Olympic National Park. It's home to thousands of species of fish and marine mammals and invertebrates like orcas, oysters, and octopus. There's hardly a better way to take it all in than on the water.FOR THE BIRDS With a majestic and varied land scape, Hood Canal is a gorgeous place to come search for the over 250 species that call the Olympic Peninsula home. Chock full of life – birds like bald eagles, rhinoceros aucklets and more on premiere birding trails –this is a birder’s paradise!
50 SHELTON is the westernmost city on Puget Sound. Featuring a bustling heritage core, its landscape is marked by colossal forests which led to a title of “Christmas Tree Capital of the World.” Dubbed CHRISTMASTOWN, USA, since 1962, Shelton successfully won the Guinness World Record for Most Lit Christmas Trees in 2019. SHELTON CELEBRATING A RICH TIMBER HISTORY Harstine Island Beach Cabin | 21 E Dana Dr, Shelton | (253) 943-5264 | harstinerental.com N • • B • • • Little Creek Casino Resort | W 91 State Route 108, Shelton | (800) 667-7711 | little-creek.com O • • • • • Riptide Retreat | 291 East Agate Beach Drive, Shelton | riptideretreat.com O • • B • • Shelton Inn | 628 W Railroad Ave, Shelton | (360) 426-4468 | sheltoninn.com N • • • Super 8 Motel | 2943 Northview Circle, Shelton | (360) 426-1654 | super8.com N • • • City Center Best Rates | 128 E Alder St, Shelton | (360) 426-3397 N • • • SHELTON AREA LODGING Dining: (O)Onsite (N)Nearby Wi/Fi TV/Cable OKPets Pool Beach Kitchen SitesRV Watercraft viewWater GET YOUR RACE ON The Ridge Motorsports Park hosts car and motorcycle events. Karting is open thru October. RIDGEMOTORSPORTSPARK.COM FOREST ROOTS Explore the Shelton Historical Museum with displays on early life on Puget Sound, Hood Ca nal, and working in the woods and stick around for the Mason County Forest Festival Paul Bunyan masoncountyforestfestival.comParade. photoMotorsportsRidge
TAYLOR SHELLFISH STORE Fresh seafood, tours available; open to public. Hwy 101 to Taylor Towne Exit.
TOPOGRAPHY: flat, viewing platforms, interpretive signs TO GO: Hwy 101, Old Olympic Hwy; weekends, seasonally. NO FEE/ PASS Trails, interpretive center, swimming, fishing.
EASY 2.5 mile loop, rolling meadows
ISLANDHARSTINETRAIL 300 acres to explore EASY 1.5 mile, beach DISCOVER PASS
CAMPING FEES
51 FJORD Annas Bay Tahuya State Forest Dow Mtn Grisdale Hill Dennie Ahl Hill White Star Dayton Peak Saddle Mtn Cushman Hill McMickenIsland SquaxinIsland IslandReach HarstineIsland ReservationSkokomishIndian Crk Wnter Crk Weaver Crk John Uncle Riv Tahuya CrkSund Stream Stream Crk Stinson Crk Stillwater CrkSkookum Riv Skokomish Crk BobSka CrkShumocher Crk Sherwood CrkRock CrkRock Crk Rendsland Crk Miller CrkMi l MckrCTaggert LKokaneek CrkKirkland CrkJones CrkJohns JCrkarrel Crk Irene CrkHill CrkHarp CrkGosne l CrkGoldsborough CrkGibbons CrkFrigid Crk FFlatCrkir CrkFinchFCkinchCrkEnati DCrkow Crk Deer CrkCranberry Crk Coffee CrkCloqua lum CrkC ark CrkCampbell CrkBrown Crk Mission Big kr CoulterCrk HoodCanal OaklandBay CaseInlet MasonLake Totten Inlet PealePassage InletHammersleyTottenInlet Puget Sound Passage Dana NorthBay TInletotten Inlet Skookum Little PickeringPassage Hood Canal IsabellaLake FawnLakeLakeLost LakeWest IslandLake Price Lake Lake Kokanee Dewatto Bay WootenLakeLakeHaven MaggieLake AndersonLake BensonLake LimerickLake TimberPhillipsSpencerLakeLakeLake LilliwaupFalls AveArcadia TurnerAveKS10thStStE EIStNHwyOlympic N1stSt N13thSt RdSpringsEShelton BlvdKneelandWallaceE Rd Prairie EJohns RdCutoffEPurdy BdRay ENorth SEndRd DrIsland ESouth IslandRdS SERdnd Dr Island ENorthRd EPickering RdAgateE AveWRailroad LakeBlvd RdArcadiaSE Rd LynchSE LnLynchSE RdWCloquallum NOBelfaldE RdDewattoNE Dewatto RdShoreNorth NE RdTahuyaBelfairNE RdAirport WDayton RdMatlockWShelton RdMatlockSheltonW Rd NLCushmanake SpyOHwySmcE S1stSt StP neE CampgroundCreek Potlatch State CampgroundPark JacobysCountyShorecrestPark StateTwanohPark Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman Stretch Point State Park Jarrell Cove State Park StatePotlatchPark StateBelfairPark Hoodsport Trail State Park HopeStateIslandPark SHELTON BELFAIRLILLIWAUPKamilche TAHUYA Grapeview UNION BayshoreKamilcheNewDEWATTO AgateArcadia VICTORPOTLATCH DAYTON HOODSPORT ALLYN HarborFair SKOKOMISH 3 300 302 102 119 3 108 106 106 3 202 3 101 101 101 101 101 101
LakeCushman
TO GO: Red Caboose on Railroad Avenue information, handouts, and maps ALLYN Waterfront park features gazebo and lawns, play area, and beach 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
SQUAXIN ISLAND TRIBE MUSEUM Stories, photos, art, artifacts dating back over 500 years. TO GO: Hwy 101 to Kamilche exit , follow signs. ADMISSION CHARGE
POTLATCH STATE PARK Longest stretch of PUBLIC BEACH in Mason County with shellfish, kayaking, and Hood Canal water access. DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED ISABELLA LAKE TRAILS
SHELTON VISITOR CENTER
DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED SCHAFER STATE PARK TRAIL
THE KENNEDY CREEK SALMON TRAIL
Chum salmon are on view as they make their way up river
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.
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 avail able, beach landing, boats and kayaks can launch at Arcadia Point (0.5 miles).
TO GO: Hwy 101 exit at SR#3 to Golden Pheasant Rd, right on Delight Park Rd. DISCOVER PASS WALKER PARK Beach access, playground, restrooms, picnic shelter, kayak access. NO FEE/PASS HUNTER FARMS Farm Market, seasonal events; Visitor Center
LOWER LENA LAKE TRAIL Well maintained popular trail leads to a small lake
WATERWHEELDALBY TO GO: SR#106
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.
MODERATE TO DIFFICULT 3 mile climb,switchbacks TO GO: Hwy 101 at Hamma Hamma Recreation Area
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).
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 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).
SERVICES AT PORT OF DEWATTO CAMPGROUND EAGLE CREEK Beach access & parking across from Eagle Creek Saloon. NO FEE/PASS HAMA HAMA STORE Beach access & parking, seasonal outdoor Oyster Saloon and fresh seafood market.
STAIRCASE | OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK Ranger Station is open in summer with information, exhibits, wilderness permits, map sales and wheelchair available. Road open year-round weather permitting. Call (360) 565-3131 NATIONAL PARK PASS TO GO: HWY 101 to SR#119, follow FS#24 to Staircase Entrance.
FJORD 52 Annas Bay Tahuya State Forest Jefferson Peak Mt Skokomish Dow Mtn Copper Mtn Cruiser Mt Washington GrisdaleMtHillRose Dennie Ahl Hill Henderson Mt Pershing Triton Head Saddle Mtn Mt Stone Cushman Hill Mt Ellinor IslandReach ReservationSkokomishIndian Crk Whitehorse Crk Weaver Crk Watson Crk Washington Crk Waketickeh RivUnion Riv Tahuya CrkSund Stream Stream Crk Stinson Crkte Riv Skokomish CrkSkinwood Crk BobSka CrkShumocher Crk Sherwood Crk Rendsland BrNorth Crk Mission Crk Miller MckrCTaggert Crk Maple LKokaneek Crk n Ck Lilliwaup CrkLee CrkKirkland Crk Jorsted CrkJefferson CrkJefferson CrkJefferson Crk Irene CrkHill CrkHarp RiverHammaHamma CrkGibbons CrkFrigid Crk FlatCrkr CrkFinchFCrkinchCrkEnati Crk Eagle DCrkow Riv Dewatto eCrkr CrkC ark CrkCedar CrkBrown CrkBoulder Crk CBMissionigrkMission Big BCrkig gkCB GulchBear CoulterCrk HoodCanal CaseInlet MasonLake Lake Cushman NorthBay Hood Canal LakeWest Price Lake Lake Melbourne Tenas Lake Lake Kokanee Dewatto Bay WootenLakeLakeHaven MaggieLake Blacksmith Lake AndersonLake BensonLake LilliwaupFalls RdCutoffEPurdy BdRay NOBENorthHwyelfairldERdDewattoNE RdBay Dewatto RdShoreNorth NE RdTahuyaBelfairNE Rd NLCushmanake Big CampgroundCreek CampgroundCreek Lena CampgroundCreek Potlatch State CampgroundPark HammaCampgroundHamma LilliwaupCampgroundCreek StateTwanohPark Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman Stretch Point State Park StatePotlatchPark StateBelfairPark Hoodsport Trail State Park MountWildernessSkokomish BELFAIR LILLIWAUP TAHUYA Grapeview Ayock UNION HAMMAHAMMAELDON DEWATTO VICTORPOTLATCHHOODSPORT ALLYN HarborFair Triton SKOKOMISH 300 302 119 119 3 106 106 3 202 101 101 101
HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER TO GO: Located just off Hwy 101 in Hoodsport – information, handouts, maps PASSES FOR PURCHASE
TO GO: Belfair-Tahuya Rd to Dewatto Rd, 4 miles.
VISITOR CENTER/ BELFAIR LICENSING TO GO: On Hwy 3 in Belfair PASSES FOR PURCHASE Park/ vehicle/vessel/fishing/hunting northmasonchamber.com
FOUR STREAM: EASY 1.2 mile to Beaver Flat, swampy section of alder/cedar forest. Elevation loss 100 ft.
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
UPPER LENA LAKE TRAIL Steep with unstable bed; camping. MODERATE TO DIFFICULT 4.3 mile climb
EASY TO MODERATE 1.5 mile loop.
DEWATTO BAY Beach with dramatic view of the Olympics; excellent photography destina tion. Lots of ripe berries in late summer.
SkokomishValleyRd
fishing,
WILDERNESS PERMIT FOR CAMPING NW FOREST PASS FOR PARKING
TAHUYA STATE FOREST 23,100 acre forest provides open spaces for sightseeing, camping, nature study, 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
TOPOGRAPHY: 3,800 foot gain to sub-alpine lake TO GO: Same as Lower Lena Lake Trail above.
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.
HIKING & BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING FORAGE DINNER Come prepared with buckets and boots. Check regs at wdfw.wa.gov before digging – or stop by HAMA HAMA STORE & OYSTER SALOON for freshly prepared seafood. DIVE DEEPER Giant octopus, wolf eels and swarms of ancient rock cod add to the wonder of this special place. AIR, GEAR & SCUBA LESSONS, RENTALS & CHARTERS available. Dining: (O)Onsite (N)Nearby Wi/Fi TV/Cable OKPets Pool/Spa Beach KitchenCUSHMAN, ELDON, HOODSPORT, POTLATCH & LILLIWAUP SitesRV Watercraft viewWater Alice’s Little Beach House | 112 N Allie Ahl Ln, Lilliwaup | (360) 877-9226 | aliceslittlebeachhouse.com N • • • • Creekside Inn | 27131 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | (360) 877-9686 | creeksideinnwa.com N • • • • • Glen Ayr Waterfront Resort | 25381 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | (360) 877-9522 | glenayr.com N • • • S B • • • Mike’s Beach Resort | 38470 N Hwy 101, Lilliwaup | (360) 877-5324 | mikesbeachresort.com N • • • S B • • • • The Moose House at Lake Cushman | Lake Cushman | themoosehouse.com N • • • Pali-Kai Canal House | 327000 N Hwy 101, Lilliwaup | (360) 426-2224 N • • • B • • Sunrise Motel & Dive Resort | 24520 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | (360) 877-5301 N • B • • • Waterfront at Potlatch | 21660 N Hwy 101, Potlatch | (360) 877-9422 | thewaterfrontatpotlatch.com N • • • B • • • • Yellow House | 23891 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | (360) 877-6818 | hoodsportndive.com N • • S B • • WEST HOOD CANAL LODGING 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 HARD WARE DISTILLERY offer tastings amongst shopping, dining and the famous Olympic Mountain Ice Cream. ITINERARY 3: HOODSPORT & NORTH HOOD CANAL 53
| 18350
ITINERARY ALLYN/GRAPEVIEW4:
LOOP A CUT ABOVE The largest chainsaw carving outlet, BEAR IN A is a great place to explore this unique art. They also teach chainsaw carving.
|
WANDERINGSWATERFRONT
N • • • • • • Summertide Resort | 15781 NE Northshore Road Tahuya | (360) 275-9313 | summertideresort.com N • • • • • • • • Union Alderbrook Resort & Spa | 10 E Alderbrook Drive, Union | (360) 898-2200 | alderbrookresort.com O • • • • • • • • • Blue Heron Resort Condos | 6520 E SR106, Union | (360) 614-3191 | attheblue.com N • • • • • • • Cameo Boutique Cottage & Suite | 6871 E SR 106, Union | (360) 490-7006 | cameoboutique.com N • • • • • Harmony Hill Retreat Center | 7362 E SR 106, Union | (360) 898-2363 | harmonyhill.org O • • • • Hood Canal Events Accommodations | curated short term rentals | hoodcanalevents.com N • • • • • • • Hood Canal Resort Properties | 8761 E SR 106, Union | (360) 842-9779 | hoodcanalresort.com N • • • • • Robin Hood Village Resort | 6780 E State Route 106, Union | 898-2163 | robinhoodvillageresort.com O • • • • • • • Dining: (O)Onsite (N)Nearby Wi/Fi TV/Cable OKPets Pool Kitchen SitesRVALLYN/ BELFAIR/UNION LODGING Allyn Beach Watercraft Watrview
GRAPEVIEW
| allynhouseinn.com N • • • • • • • • Belfair & Tahuya Belfair Motel | 23322 NE
FJORD 54 ALLYN
| 275-4485 | belfairmotel.net N • • • • Gladwin Beach House | 391
| explorehoodcanal.com N • • • • • Sisters Point Waterfront Cabin | 12121 NE
GRAPE VIEWS Waterfront Grapeview is the location of first winery and vineyards of the Pacific Northwest. BEACH WALK There are plenty of great public beaches to explore and launch points for your kayaks.
|
Allyn House Inn State Route 3, Allyn 535-2198 State Route 3, Belfair Gladwin Beach Rd, Belfair (360) 337-2960 North Shore Rd, Belfair 275-6816
The area features quaint shops, a variety of restaurants, and beach parks.
| (360)
ALLYN & enjoy gorgeous views of the protected harbor waters of Case Inlet. The area features quaint shops, waterfront lodging, restaurants, and beach parks. the Grapeview area hosts the Water and Art Festival, a day-long event featuring entertainment and juried artists.
Annually,
VISITOR INFORMATION & RESOURCES
TRAILS
HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER 150 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport, WA (360) 877-2021 | (800) 576-2021 VISITOR CENTER 30 NE Romance Hill Rd, Belfair, WA (360) 275-4267 | northmasonchamber.com VISITOR INFORMATION Located at Hunter Farms, E 1921 SR 106, Union, WA
BELFAIR
5: BELFAIR AREA
TAKE
55 FJORD
BOARDWALK
SHELTON CHAMBER VISITOR CENTER 215 W. Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA | (360) 426-2021 Open 8 AM - 5 PM | Monday through Friday COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM 427 W. Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA 11 AM - 4 PM | Tuesday through Saturday
SALMON STRONG THE SALMON CENTER provides education and recreation through a series of collaborative activities at their certified organic farm. They also host seasonal events. pnwsalmoncenter.org
ITINERARY TAKE ON Hood Canal’s wild 139 acre THELER WETLANDS hosts two miles of trails. 1,700+ feet of floating boardwalk, native plants, and interpretive ki osks to experience wetland wildlife. olympicbirdtrail.org
UNION
RIDE
MASON
KAMILCHE VISITOR CENTER 31 West State Route 108, Kamilche, WA (360) 432-0921 FREE IN MASON COUNTY From ferries in Seattle to trailheads in Hood Canal, Mason Transit offers free rides – masontransit.org NATIONAL PARK nps.gov 55 TO THE 23,100 acre TAHUYA STATE FOREST for camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, ATV, ORV, and biking.mountaindnr.wa.gov
OLYMPIC
A WALK
Learn DeNottamore:Seafood Company 17320 State Route 106, Belfair denottaseafood.com
OYSTER BAR 222 CAPITOL WAY N, OLYMPIA, WA 98501 (360) 915-7784 | chelseafarms.net
Learn
Tide tumbled, Capital oysters are suspended off the ground. The tailored growing process results in a smooth, super deep shell as each oyster captures the essence of the beautiful ocean wa ters, free of sand and zero muddy tastes. These partner companies also raise geoduck and clams in South Puget Sound.
CAPITAL OYSTERS & SEATTLE SHELLFISH
Learn CAPITALmore:OYSTER & SEATTLE SHELLFISH OLYMPIA & capitaloyster.comSHELTON
A shellfish reason to explore our area "SEA" SOME LOCAL FARMERS
South Puget Sound
CHELSEAmore:FARMS
Chelsea Farms is a current working model of environmental sustainability. They have made a priority of farming the Olympia Oyster, a native oyster to Olympia, that was on it’s way to extinction. Specialties include their Chelsea Gem, Bonita, and Olympia Oysters, along with fresh clams and geoduck. Visit their Oyster bar in downtown Olympia to get the ultimate local seafood experience!
Hood DeNottaCanalharvests their oysters wild, off land owned by community members on the Hood Canal. Their unique approach offers consumers not only the freshest oysters, but also the knowl edge that you are part of a new perspective on seafood harvesting. The owners of the land are also the stewards of the beach as it is in their best interest to have a healthy shoreline and productive oysterbed.
FJORD 56
5th generation, master oyster farmer, Tom Bloomfield, works to create a superior oyster.
DENOTTA COMPANYSEAFOOD
CHELSEA FARMS & OLYMPIA OYSTER BAR Eld & Totten Inlet, South Puget Sound
You’ve heard it before – those dang months with the “r.” Well, technically we farmers don’t agree, bivalves have a much longer season, Some of the best shucks are in May – but there is something to be said for a fall or spring oyster. With the Quilcene Oyster Races followed by OysterFest in Shelton, this is the perfect time to follow the shellfish trail and visit local farms that grow the food you love.
57 FJORD GOOSEPOINT OYSTERY™ & GOOSEPOINT OYSTERS Willipa Bay Open seven days a week (10 AM - 5 PM) the OYSTERY is a full service retail store located on the farm. Buy oysters in the shell, pre-shucked fresh BlueSeal™ oysters, oyster meats, seafood meals, Oyster Shooters, merchandise, cocktail sauce and more. You can also have your shellfish delivered through their online portal. Learn GOOSEPOINTmore:OYSTERS 7081 NIAWIAKUM ST. HWY 101, BAY CENTER, WA (888) 875-6629 | goosepoint.com HAMA HAMA OYSTER FARM & OYSTER SALOON Hood Canal Visit their outdoor eating area, the Oyster Saloon in Lilliwaup. This high energy destination serves oysters pulled from the last tide and prepared to order with an ever changing menu of seasonal local ingredients. In their retail shop you can purchase a variety of local products including salmon and oysters smoked on site. Hama Hama is a 5th generation family farm celebrat ing 100 years in 2022! Congrats! Learn more: HAMA HAMA OYSTER CO & OYSTER SALOON 35846 US-101, Lilliwaup, WA 98555 (360) 877-5811 | hamahamaoyster.com 360-426-2276 Choose Mason.com CHOOSE MASON COUNTY HOOD CANAL | GEORGE STENBERG PHOTO Discover your new business location and experience the natural beauty and outdoor opportunities of our county. Thriving businesses. Strong communities.
OYSTERVILLE SEA FARMS
Learn more: MIKE’S BEACH RESORT 38470 N US Highway 101, Lilliwaup, WA 98555 (360) 877-5324 | olympicoysterco.com
TAYLOR SHELLFISH
Willipa Bay Dining room, retail oyster sales ads well as locally sourced gifts. During the Gold Rush (1849) signifi cant numbers of settlers were drawn to Oysterville when gold miners spent their gold on Willapa Bay oysters. Farm store open Thursday through Sunday. Learn Oystervillemore:Sea Farms 34300 1st St, Oysterville | willapawild.com
Lake Limerick Golf Club & Cafe Play 18 with Split tees - Par 72 Annual & Winter Memberships Available We Strive to be #1 in Mason County Serving our Members and the www.LakeLimerickGolf.comPublic @golfpro@lakelimerick.com811ESaintAndrewsDriveSheltonWA98584JoinusonFBLakeLimerickGolfClub GOLF$25.00SPECIAL 9 HOLE GOLF, CART AND BEVERAGE Good Mon-Fri, 6 Sep-31Oct, 2022 Call for Tee Times Pro Shop 360-426-6290
OLYMPIC OYSTER CO. & MIKE’S BEACH RESORT
THE FJORD OYSTER BANK SEA NYMPH OYSTERS
Puget Sound locations South Puget Sound and British Columbia Stop in at Taylor Shellfish’s headquarters and visit their market near Shelton. Taylor’s specialties include the Kumamoto (sweet fruity flavor) and the Virginica (Crisp, briny, and buttery). The company has been farming oysters on Puget Sound since the 1890’s. Learn more: TAYLOR SHELLFISH RETAIL STORE 130 SE Lynch RD, Shelton (360) 432-3300 | taylorshellfishfarms.com
FJORD 58
Hoodsport & Hammersley Inlet Sea Nymph Oysters and Clams are grown on South Puget Sounds nutrient rich waterways. Through a tumble bag and a beach to bag process these oysters have distinct merrior as well as shape profiles dependent upon their growth process. Sea Nymph Oysters will be available at OysterFest 2022 in the Marine Education Science Society (MESSS) “Oysters on the Half Shell” booth located near the Microbrew garden. Funds raised from oyster sales support the marine touch tanks. Their oysters as well as other area growers’ will be soon available at the Oyster Bank (October) in Hood sport on Hood Canal. Product will be available for fresh take home as well as served on site. Sea Nymph beach and tumbled oysters (as well as clams) are also available for pre-arranged pick up at the farm on Hammersley Inlet. Learn more SOUTH SOUND MARICULTURE (SEA NYMPH) Shelton & Hoodsport (360) 427-5599 | southsoundoysters.com
Hood Third-generationCanal farmers, Matthew and Sara are serious about producing some award winning oysters on site for market and available at restaurants. Guests staying on the active farm (aka Mike’s Beach Resort) stay in waterfront cabins and rooms, with views of the canal and enjoy first dibs on some of the freshest oysters on the fjord!
59 FJORD November 18-January 16 Hours, tickets, and more information at olyonice.com November 18-January 16 Hours, tickets, and more information at olyonice.com November 18-January 16 Hours, tickets, and more information at olyonice.com
BUTTER CLAM
PACIFIC OYSTERS (NOT NATIVE)
Up to 2.5”, oblong shell, Color can vary—typically gray,brown, or mottled and often times with what appears to be hand painted designs; some purple on the inside shell; found at 2-4” in gravel, mud, sand, typically above the half-tide level.
OLYMPIA OYSTER
LILLIWAUP STATE PARK
Up to 12”, white/gray oblong shell with irregular, wavy edges; found in intertid al zone; tumbled (farmed) Pacifics have cupped shape with fragile shells.
MUSSELS Blue Mussel (native) up to 3”, California Mussel (native) up to 6”, Mediterranean non-native) up to 5”. Oblong shell, blueblack or brown, attaches to rocks, pilings, boats, gravel, or other hard surfaces in the intertidal zone with bissel threads.
WALKER PARK Beach access, playground, restrooms, picnic shelter basketball court. Olympic Hwy to Arcadia Rd, from Rd take Left on Walker Park Rd, Park is on right. No shellfish harvest. No passes required.
Up to 5” with round shell; prominent evenly-spaced radiat ing ridges fanning from hinge; mottled, light brown color; found at 1-2” in sand, mud in intertidal or subtidal zone.
Expansive beach property signs. Warm ParkingenoughacrossVisitorInformation
Our Local Bivalves
Full off on Hwy 101, stairway to beach at north opening of Lilliwaup Bay. Walk north or south when tide is out. Oysters and Clams. Eagles and osprey. Overnight RV camping permitted; no restrooms.
TAYLOR SHELLFISH 130 SE Lynch Rd Shelton (360) Taylor’s432-3300productline includes worldwide export of geoduck, clams, mussels and oysters. Headquartered in Kamilche, retail store is open daily. taylorshellfish.com explorehoodcanal.com
FJORD 60 NATIONALNATIONALOLYMPICPARKOLYMPICFOREST NATIONALOLYMPICFOREST MATLOCK POTLATCHHOODSPORT 119 119 108
NATIVE LITTLENECK CLAM
MASON COUNTY'S shellfish
Up to 10”, 2.5 – 10 lbs. Gaping oblong shell with concentric rings; white shell with flaky brown skin; siphon and mantle are too large to withdraw; found at depth of 2-3’ in mud, sand, gravel in the subtidal zone (extreme low tides).
POTLATCH BEACH PARK Longest stretch of public beach, popular for swim ming, kayaking, and picnics. Camping & restrooms.
GEODUCK
MANILA LITTLENECK CLAM (NOT NATIVE)
Up to 3.5” with rounded shell displaying concentric rings and radiating ridge lines, cream, grey, brown, or mottled. White inside shell; found at 6-10” deep in gravel, mud, mid-tide level.
Up to 5”, shell with concentric rings (no radiating ridge lines), Yellow to gray/white colored; found at 1-1.5’ in sand, gravel, or cobble; lower intertidal or shallow subtidal zone. Butter clams retain marine biotoxins longer than other clams.
Up to 3”, rounded shell, white to purplish black and may be striped with yellow or brown; oyster’s flesh is a light olive green with a metallic flavor. Native oyster to the area and currently protected in wild habitats.
OYSTER BAY Easy beach access on marshy estuary. Popular for bird watching and salmon observing/fishing. Pullout on Hwy 101 near Mile Marker 356; near KENNEDY CREEK INTERPRETATIVE TRAIL.
HOODSPORT Public boat dock with beach access. Starfish and crabs at low tide. Closed to shellfish gathering. Picnic tables & restrooms,nearby dining, grocery and shopping.
Forage on Washington’s Wild Side. Mason County’s saltwater bays and inlets along Hood Canal and South Puget Sound are renown for some of the tastiest and freshest bivalves in the Northwest. Visit for the pristine waters, open wilderness and public beaches stocked annually for families to enjoy!
OYSTERFEST Traditionally held in October at Shelton Airport, the two day festival features seafood delicacies prepared by local non-profits as well as the Northwest Oyster Shucking Championship & live music.
EAGLE
Get to know a few species
COCKLE CLAM
CHILL: Harvest shellfish on the outgoing tide and put on ice as soon as possible to prevent bacterial growth. Keep them cold until ready to eat. Cover in fridge with a wet cloth to prevent drying out.
ALLYN DAY JULY 17 | Allyn, WA Enjoy vendors, wine and beer garden, and live music - one day revised allyntown.comevent.
COOK: Cook shellfish in summer months when Vibrio illnesses can occur. To kill Vibrio bacteria cook shellfish to 145° F for at least 15 seconds, cooking does not destroy biotoxins.
ALLYN Gazebo, garden, play area, pier, restrooms and beach access with boat launch.
DNR 24/GRAPEVIEW, DNR beach clams and oysters open all year. Access by boat only.
CHECK: Health closures and advisories: doh.wa.gov/shellfishsafety Harvesting closures: wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfishing-regulation
A 106-acre marine camping park reachable only by boat. Covered with old-growth forests and saltwater marshes, the park features a beach oneand-a-half miles long. Access by boat only.
Local Seafood Here are a few locations that serve Hood Canal & South Puget Sound seafood on their menus.
HAMA HAMA 35846 US-101, Lilliwaup 5th generation farm serves oysters prepared to order with an ever changing menu of seasonal local ingredients. Retail store and farm dining. hamahamaoyster.com
OYSTER SALOON
DEWATTO BAY Small beach with dramatic view of the Olympics. Lots of ripe berries in late summer. From Belfair: take the Belfair-Tahuya Road to Dewatto Rd. Continue four miles to Dewatto. Parking limited.CREEK beach when tide is out, obey signs. Excellent oyster beach. for swimming in summer. from Eagle Creek Saloon.
Signs on the beach: Follow posted warnings and respect private property.
Bistro at Lakeland Village 470 E Country Club Dr, Allyn (360) 277-4137 Boat House Restaurant 18340 E WA 3, Allyn (360) 275-2954 Burger Claim & More 24171 WA 3, Belfair (360) 277-5141
UNION CITY MARKET 5101 E State Route 106 | Union | (360) 898-3500 Art, gifts, seafood and grocery items and seasonal cafe within a working marina. HUNTER FARMS 921 WA-106, Union | (360) 426-2222 Direct farm to market retail includes Hood Canal oysters at the general store located on the farm.
HOPE STATEISLANDPARK
61 FJORD SHELTON BELFAIRLILLIWAUPKAMILCHE TAHUYA GRAPEVIEW UNION HAMMAHAMMAELDONDEWATTO POTLATCHHOODSPORT ALLYN TRITON HARSTINEISLANDARCADIAMASONLAKE3 300 302 102 3 106 106 3 202 3 101 101 101 101 101 101 101 shelter and from Arcadia right. observing/fishing. near explorehoodcanal.com BEACH & map
BELFAIR STATE PARK
Do not harvest in areas with pollution closures. Ask your doctor before eating raw shellfish if you have any concerns about allergies, are taking medications, or have a weakened immune system (such as cancer, liver disease, or HIV). Shellfish are a great and healthy food. Avoid illness by following the 3 C’s above and enjoy!
NORTH BAY Community park offers beach access, a picnic area and portable restroom and is very popular with kayakers, fishermen and local residents. Located on SR-3 at the south end of Allyn. The parking area is open only during the shellfish season.
CHECK. CHILL. COOK.
InformationVisitor InformationVisitorInformationVisitorVisitorInformation InformationVisitor
Nice beaches for walking and exploring with summer water temperatures surprisingly warm. Restrooms, camping and picnic facilities.
TWANOH STATE PARK Excellent camping, swimming, kayaking, picnic sites, and shellfish harvesting.
The Fjord Oyster Bank Hoodsport - Opening Soon! Hama Hama Oyster Saloon 35846 US-101, Lilliwaup (360) 877-5811 Hook & Fork 5101 E State Route 106, Union (360) 898-3500 Model T Pub & Eatery 24281 N US 101, Hoodsport (360) 877-9883 Restaurant at Alderbrook 10 E Alderbrook Dr, Union (360) 898-2200 Smoking Mo’s 233 S. 1st St, Shelton (360) 462-0163 Spencer Lake Bar & Grill 1180 E Pickering Rd, Shelton (360) 426-2505 Squaxin Island Seafood Bar 91 West State Route 108, Shelton (360) 432-7120 Taylor Station 62 SE Lynch Rd, Shelton (360) 426-8501 Tides Family Restaurant 27061 US-101, Hoodsport (360) 877-8921 View more area dining at explorehoodcanal.com
CHELSEA FARMS OYSTER BAR 222 CAPITOL WAY N, OLYMPIA | (360) 915-7784 Eld & Totten Inlet, South Puget Sound Chelsea Farm have made a priority of farming the native Olympia oyster that was on it’s way to extinction. Visit their oyster bar in Olympia for local seafood experience! chelseafarms.net
MENARD’S LANDING Expansive beach (at low tide), picnic area, and views of the Olympics. RENDSLAND CREEK, DNR owned clams and oysters open all year.
The chowder recipe may be seafood or a combination of seafood and other ingredients. The Chowder Cook-Off takes place from 10:00 AM - 2PM at the Washington State Seafood Festival – OysterFest. Participants must be prepared to bring up to five gallons of chowder. Chowder must be prepared in an approved kitchen withWA State Health protocols followed. Or prepared on site to be ready for tasting at Ticketsnoon.for tastes of chowder include tokens for voting for People’s Choice. The People’s Choice Award is determined by the most tokens received. This event is hosted by Oyster Fest and the Shelton Skookum Rotary Club. Thanks goes to Tracing the Fjord magazine for coordination and sponsorship. Thank you to Mason PUD 3 for providing the assistance with volunteers and coordina tion during the event. For info or to register to participate or get tasting ticket visit: Rachel,ets-414733999557fest-chowder-cook-off-tickeventbrite.com/e/oysterorcall360-427-5599.
FJORD 62 OysterFest has added a new event to this year's WA State Sea food Festival line-up, a chowder cook-off. Professionals and amateur, are invited to compete for prizes & bragging rights.
Thewhales.public is invited to review the state laws on boating near orcas (RCW 77.15.740). For more de tails about steps boaters can take to keep the whales –and themselves – safe, visit BeWhaleWise.org.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is looking for public feedback on rules for recreational boaters and commercial whale watch ing operators intended to support endangered Southern Resident killer whale recovery. In 2019, Senate Bill 5577 changed how close boaters can get to orcas and implemented a 7-knot speed limit within one-half nautical mile of the endangered orca population. This legislation also prompted the Department to develop a licensing program and rules for commercial whale watching for both motorized vessels and sea kayak Memberstours.of the public can share feedback on the rules through an online public sur vey, available through Sept. 30. The Department is also inviting the public to submit any rele vant scientific studies published since 2020, and inviting re searchers to share their studies, either underway or completed, that could inform the report. “Now that we’ve all navigat ed four summers with the new rules for boating around Southern Residents, it’s a great time to pause and reflect on how things are going,” said Julie Watson, Ph.D., WDFW killer whale policy lead. “Ro bust feedback will be critical to this process and we’re looking forward to hearing from the broader community around this Latertopic.”this fall, WDFW staff will be reviewing comments re ceived as they draft the report, which is due to the Legislature by Nov. 30.
A limited number of tastes will be available for $15 and include garlic bread, a souvenir token and a tasting flight. Awards and plaque will be presented after the final heats in the West Coast Shucking Championship. All proceeds benefit PUD’s Project Share. Project Share is an assistance program that was started in 1983 to assist low-in come customers, as certified by Community Action Council, with their electric bills.
The event will be hosted during the annual OysterFest event, October 1 & 2 in Shelton, WA. It's not a totally new idea for the organizers of OysterFest, Skookum Rotary Club, as for many years the annual seafood festival included a very popular cook-off element showcasing favorite seafood recipes. This new event invites chefs to bring their favorite chowder to OysterFest, Sat, October 1 to be judged by a People's Choice as well as by the Honorary GOO, Chef Xinh Dwelley.
WDFW seeks public input on rules for vessels operating near Southern Resident killer whales
Washington law requires recreational vessels to stay at least 300 yards from Southern Resident killer whales and at least 400 yards out of the path in front of and behind the
If you love cooking chowder, now is the time to pull your team together and prove why your chowder is the best! Entry fee is $50.
Enter the first annual Chowder Cook Off at 2022 OysterFest event, October 1
Xinh Dwelley knows seafood. And she really knows her oysters. And not just because she ran a successful seafood restaurant in Shelton for 25 years and knows how to cook them. From when she first stepped foot in America and set tled on Washington’s Steamboat Island, as a bride of 19, she’s been honing her oystering skills. Xinh married an American soldier, and he brought her to Olympia with their infant son. Speaking little English, having a young child, and not knowing anyone other than her new husband was frightening and overwhelming. To compound her isolation, when Vietnam fell in 1975, she lost all contact with her family.
Many would have crumbled. Not Xinh. Picking blueberries or mushrooms, digging clams, before ultimately shucking oysters. She took evening classes to learn English and was the quickest blueberry and mush room harvester during the day. During night tides she could dig more clams than anyone else on the beach. As far as shuck ing went, she had an amazing speed and accuracy at shucking oysters early on. The first day she shucked 8 gallons and broke all the records at Rock Point Oyster. The second day she shucked 12 gallons. That day she also shoved the shucking knife through her hand and had to get stitches. This is her only oyster shucking injury and she went right back to shucking the next Whenday. the first OysterFest hit the scene in 1982 they decided to host a shucking championship. Since it was a first year for the event they had to rally farmers to find
History was made at Shelton Skookum Rotary’s first West Coast Oyster Cham pionship – as Xinh beat the men at their own grueling game. Each year Xinh’s confidence grew as she easily beat her own records. In 1989, her first place speeds was 3:08 minutes, taking Xinh on to win Nationals. 63
XINH DWELLEY 2022 (GRANDHONORARYOYSTERFESTGOOOLDOYSTER)
63 FJORD
SHUCKING AMAZING
Breaking Boundaries & Setting Records
shuckers who would compete. Although she was terrified, Xinh was convinced to go on the shucking stage to compete in a traditionally male realm. “Oh honey, I was so scared,” admits Xinh with deep feeling, “all those people watching and it’s just me there. And I was so slow. My hands were shaking and just didn’t want to make a mess of it. And I didn’t. I was slow but so was everyone else. And I didn’t mess up any. That’s why I won.”
Each week Jeff Slakey outlines what's happening around Hood Canal & South Puget Sound on www.tracingthefjord.com week!
FJORD 64
Washington State Parks will close lower parking lot and re stroom facilities at Tolmie to complete a fish passage project. The upper lot at Tolmie will remain open, with space for 30 cars, and portable toilets will be available. The work is set to wrap up in February of 2023. Visitors will be able to reach the beach on a steep trail from the upper parking lot. This project will replace a five-foot culvert with a 95-foot span bridge, allowing water to flow freely between the park’s stream and intertidal lagoon. The new stream will provide rearing and feeding habitat for salmon and the bridge will provide a safer, more scenic pedestrian walkway. The project is expected to cost just over $1.1 million.
1 tsp Johnny’s Seasoning Salt Blanch oysters in salted water, and rinse in cold water. Make a paste out of the soy sauce, Johnny’s Seasoning Salt, garlic, sugar, and basil. Add the blanched oysters to the sauce, and coat them well. Wrap bacon around the coated oysters and secure with a toothpick. Broil in oven until the bacon is golden brown. Flip. Bake other side until golden brown. Can be prepared on barbecue. 1 Tbsp garlic, finely minced 1 tsp brown sugar 1 Tbsp basil, minced 'ROUND FJORD UPDATES
Visitors to Shelton will remem ber Xinh’s Clam and Oyster House on Railroad Avenue. For many years, an evening at Xinh’s was revered as a treat for special Inoccasions.2019,Xinh Dwelley launched her first cookbook celebrating her beloved recipes.
THE
Tolmie State Park Closes Facilities for Fish Passage Project this fall
Pacific Coastal Flavors, was an instant hit leading to yet more awards and accolades for this celebrated chef. Xinh compiled her second cookbook, Flavors with Friends in 2021. Details on Xinh’s journey and her books can be found on her website, cookwithxinh.com. In 2022, Skookum Rotary Club is honoring Xinh Dwelley at OysterFest (October 1-2), as their “Honorary GOO.” You can taste her mussel curry at the Shelton Rotary booth and pick up a copy of her book in the souvenir tent.
“I make curry sauces from mem ory,” she says, “Our rice farm was in a tidal swamp; we had a lot of fish. That’s what my moth er cooked.” Xinh’s curries and sauces are so intuitive that every ingredient is showcased but never distract from the dish.
4 cups small oysters, shucked 2 lb sliced bacon, cut in half 1 Tbsp soy sauce
Xinh’s simple Bacon-Wrapped Oysters
. Visit us online every
In 1992, with five first place finishes – each faster than the pre vious years – she decided to retire from Althoughcompeting.herskills at handing shellfish were amazing, Xinh was getting noticed as a cook too. She wasn’t a trained chef but Xinh has a good memory and an innate understanding of flavors.
65 FJORD40WWW.OYSTERFEST.ORGSeptember30-October2,2022THE OFFICIAL WASHINGTON STATE SANDERSON FIELD AIRPORT 250 W SANDERSON WAY, SHELTON, WA WEST COAST SHUCKING SPEED & HALF-SHELL COMPETITION GREAT FOOD INCLUDING SEAFOOD & TRADITIONAL FARE WA STATE WINES & PNW MICROBREWS LIVE MUSIC ON TWO STAGES FAMILY ACTIVITIES , COMMUNITY & MARINE EXHIBITS RVS & CAMPING ON SITE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 6 – 10 PM ( 21+ ONLY) BEER | OYSTERS | FOOD | MUSIC HOSTED BY SHELTON ROTARY CLUB ($5/GATE) OCTOBER 1 – 2, 2022 SAT 10 AM - 6 PM • SUN 10 AM - 5 PM ADMISSION $5/$10 • FREE PARKING FREE SHUTTLE SERVICE THROUGHOUT SHELTON SAT-SUN TICKETS ONLINE, AT THE GATE, OR SCAN CODE ABOVE
FJORD 66 For directory addition, updates, and/or deletion please call 866-922-7469. UNION POTLATCH TACOMA CUSHMAN BRINNONBELFAIRALLYNGRAPEVIEW 163 3O7 160TAHUYALILLIWAUPHOODSPORT 101 101 106 60 42 62 47 19 4645 21 55 44 1210 15 43 48 5153 49 57 58 9 13 14 17 11 20 101 HOODSPORT 35 3837 26 23 343130 41 3329N.SchoolhouseHillRd Hoodsport 242822 32 LakeCushmanRd HoodCanal 31 25 56 54 16 50 21. Nina’s Lake Cushman Café 22. Visitor Information Center 23. Hoodsport Pizza 24. The Burger Stand 25. The Fjord Oyster Bank 26. Pottery & Plant Gallery 27. Hoodsport Coffee Co. 28. Model T Pub & Eatery 29. Laurie’s Gift & Liquor Store 30. The Hardware Distillery 31. Hoodsport Regional Library 32. Hood Canal Outfitters 33. Potlatch Brewing Company 34. Stottle Winery Tasting Room 35. Octopus Garden Jewelry 36. IGA Grocery Store 37. Port of Hoodsport Marina 38. YSS Dive 39. El Puerto de Angeles Restaurant 40. M4 Real Estate 41. Hoodsport Winery & Tasting Room 42. The Waterfront at Potlatch 43. Peterson Art Gallery 44. Dee’s Seafood 45. Twin Totems Store/Shell Gas 46. Lucky Dog Casino/NorthFork Grill 47. Hunter Farms & Visitor Center 48. Kari’s Collectibles 49. Hood Canal Marina 50. Union City Market 51. 2 Margaritas Restaurant 52. Robin Hood Resort (lodging only) 53. Country Store/Texaco 54. North Mason Community Church 55. Union Square Deli 56. Our Community Credit Union 57. Cameo Boutique 37 2415 8 60 Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club (360) 898-2575 | 330 Country Club Dr, Union 58 Alderbrook Resort & Spa (360) 898-2200 | 7101 E SR 106, Union 16 Hoodsport Yoga/Paddling (360) 970-0213 24380 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 62 Harmony Hill Retreat Center (360) 898-2363 | 7362 E SR 106, Union 49 Hood Canal Marina (360) 898-2252 5101 E SR 106, Union | Tours and moorage 31 Hoodsport Library (360) 877-9339 40 N Schoolhouse Hill Rd, Hoodsport | WiFi 47 Hunter Farms & Visitor Center (360) 426-2222 | 1921 E SR 106, Union 2 Hood Canal Adventures (360) 796-4116 Brinnon | Kayak rentals 18 Lake Cushman Golf Course (360) 877-5505 | 210 N Fairway Dr W, Hoodsport 46 Lucky Dog Casino (360) 877-5656 19330 Hwy 101, Skokomish | Casino 8 Mike’s Beach Resort | Scuba (360) 877-5324 | 38470 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 59 Twanoh Charters (360) 490-8276 Alderbrook dock, Union 7 Pleasant Harbor Marina Resort (360) 796-4611 | 308913 US-101, Brinnon 3 Whitney Gardens and Nursery (360) 796-4411 306264 US-101, Brinnon 38 YSS Dive (360) 877-2318 24080 Hwy 101, Hoodsport | Scuba 58. Alderbrook Resort & Spa 59. Twanoh Charter Boat (45’) 60. Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club 61. Alderbrook Clubhouse Grille 62. Harmony Hill Retreat Center 63. Mosquito Fleet Winery 64. Sister Point Waterfront Cabin 65. Summer Tide Resort & Marina 64 65 61 22 27 36 39 40 52 59 ACTIVITY HOOD CANAL DINE & SHOP LOCAL HOOD CANAL 1. Brinnon Visitor’s Center 2. Hood Canal Adventures 3. Whitney Gardens and Nursery 4. Brinnon General Store 5. Hood Canal Vacation Homes 6. Geoduck Family Restaurant 7. Pleasant Harbor Marina 8. Mike’s Beach Resort 9. Hama Hama Oyster Co. 10. Lilliwaup Store 11. Lilliwaup Post Office 12. The Tides Family Restaurant 13. Rest-A-While RV Park & Marina 14. Glen Ayr Resort, Motel & RV Park 15. Sunrise Motel & Dive 16. Hoodsport Yoga /Kayaks 17. Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman 18. Lake Cushman Golf Course 19. Lake Cushman Grocery Store 20. Dow Creek Resort 18 63
|
24
306144 US-101, Brinnon 25 The Fjord Oyster Bank explorehoodcanal.com | 24341 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 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 SHOPPING 57 Cameo Boutique & Wine Shop (360) 898-3200 | 6871 E SR 106, Union 32 Hood Canal Outfitters (360) 877-9444 24171 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 48 Kari’s Collectibles (360) 898-0277 4941 E SR 106, Union 29 Laurie’s Gift & Liquor (360) 877-5252 24230 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 35 Octopus Garden Jewelry (360) 877-5530 24202 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 26 Pottery Gallery 24252 Hwy 101, Hoodsport
| N
|
31
FUEL 53 Country Store (360) 898-7400 1031 E McReavy Rd, Union | Texaco Gas 32 Hood Canal Outfitters (360) 877-9444 24171 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 45 Twin Totems Store (360) 427-9099 19390 Hwy 101, Skokomish | Shell Gas GROCERY 4 Brinnon General Store (360) 796-4400 306413 US-101, Brinnon 9 Hama Hama Oyster Co. (888) 877-5844 35846 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup 47 Hunter Farms (360) 426-2222 1921 E SR 106, Union 36 IGA Grocery Store (360) 877-9444 24151 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 10 Lilliwaup Store (360) 877-0002 28621 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 50 Union City Market (360) 898-3500 5101 E State Route 106, Union | year round
Rd, Suite 100, Union &WINESPIRITS 57 Cameo
| 21
The Tides Family Restaurant (360) 877-8921 | 27061 Hwy 101, Hoodsport Union Square Deli & Espresso (360) 898-3354 Dalby Boutique & Shop (360) 898-3200 6871 E SR 106, Hoodsport Winery & Tasting Room (360) 877-9508 23501 Hwy 101, Hoodsport Fleet Winery (360) 710-8788 NE Old Belfair Hwy, Belfair Stottle Winery Tasting Room (360) 877-2247 24180 Hwy Rd, Belfair 17 Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman (360) 877-5760 | 7211 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport 64 Summer Tide Resort & Marina (360) 275-9313, 15781 NE North Shore Road, Tahuya 15 Sunrise Motel & Dive (360) 877-5301 | 24520 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 42 The Waterfront at Potlatch (360) 877-9422 | 21660 Hwy 101, Hoodsport INFO 9 Brinnon Visitor’s Center (360) 796-4350
63 Mosquito
67 SEATTLE
7
DINING 51 2 Margaritas Restaurant (360) 898-2462 5121 E SR 106, Union 61 Alderbrook Clubhouse Grille (360) 898-2560 | 330 Country Club Dr E, Union 58 Alderbrook Resort & Spa (360) 898-5500 | 7101 E SR 106, Union 39 El Puerto de Angeles Restaurant (360) 877-5921 | 24080 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 25 The Fjord Oyster Bank (Opening Soon) | 24341 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 6 Geoduck Family Restaurant (360) 796-4430 | 307103 US-101, Brinnon 9 Hama Hama Oyster Co. (888) 877-5844 | 35846 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup 27 Hoodsport Coffee Co. (360) 877-6732 | 24240 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 28 Model T Pub & Eatery (360) 877-9883 24281 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 46 NorthFork Grill (360) 877-2300 Lucky Dog Casino, 19330 Hwy 101, Skokomish Pleasant Harbor Marina Resort (360) 796-4611 | 308913 US-101, Brinnon The Burger Stand (360) 877-6122 24311 Hwy 101, Hoodsport Nina’s Lake Cushman Café (360) 877-9000 2440 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hwy 119, Hoodsport
| 310 E
Wine
12
55
34
Union 41
101, Hoodsport 30 The Hardware Distillery & Tasting Room (206) 300-0877 | 24210 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 33 Potlatch Brewing Company (360) 877-2391 | 24180 Hwy 101, Hoodsport BANK 56 Our Community Credit Union (OCCU) (800) 426-5657 | 320 E Dalby Rd, Ste A, Union POST OFFICES Brinnon 144 Brinnon Ln, Brinnon Hoodsport 76 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport Lilliwaup 8621 Hwy 101, Lilliwaup Union 310 E Dalby Rd, Union LODGING 58 Alderbrook Resort & Spa (360) 898-2200 7101 E SR 106, Union 57 Cameo Boutique Cottages (360) 490-7006 130 NE Dulalip Landing, Belfair 20 Dow Creek Resort (360) 877-5022 2670 N. Lake Cushman Road, Hoodsport 14 Glen Ayr Resort, Motel & RV Park (360) 877-9522 | 25381 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 62 Harmony Hill Retreat Center (360) 898-2363 | 7362 E SR 106, Union 5 Hood Canal Vacation Homes (360) 796-3450 vacationhomesonhoodcanal.com 8 Mike’s Beach Resort & Iliana's Glamping Village (360) 877-5324 | 38470 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 13 Rest-A-While RV Park (360) 877-9474 27001 Hwy 101, Hoodsport 52 Robin Hood Village (360) 898-2163 6780 SR 106, Union 76 Sisters Point Waterfront Cabin (360) 275-6816, 12121 NE North Shore
Hidden in a lush narrow ravine, Murhut Falls were long unknown to many in the outside world. But all that changed upon the construction of a well-built and easy to hike trail. This two-tiered waterfall that plummets 130 feet has become a favorite cascade for many Olympic Peninsula hikers.
FJORD 68
FJORD COVER IMAGE: MURHUT FALLS
New Hikes Guide shares 25 adventures around Hood Canal & South Puget Sound
Whether you are a first time visitor, seasoned hikers, or lifelong resident, Mason County Tourism's new publication will introduce you to some places to explore and provide insights on some of your favorite areas. The 25 hikes spotlighted by writer, Craig Romano, capture the full scope of destinations available with easy to follow maps. Included are level strolls as well as challenging butt-kicking jaunts. Below are two of our favorites. Grab a full copy of publication at a local tourist information office or click on the QR code above. The trail starts by following an old logging road. It was past logging activity in this area that led to the discovery of these falls. After a short and steady climb the old road ends on a low ridge. The way then contin ues on a good single track slightly descend ing into a damp, dark, cedar-lined ravine. As you work your way toward the falls, its roar will signal that you’re getting closer. Reach the trail’s end and behold the impressive falls crashing before you. The upper falls drops more than 100 feet while the lower one crashes about 30 feet. Pacific rhododendrons lining the trail in May and June make the hike even more delightful with their pink blossoms. 68 Trailhead GPS waypoint: N47 40.616, W123 02.360 Contact: Olympic National Forest, fs.usda. gov/olympic Map: Green Trails Olympic Mountains East 168S Trailhead Directions: From Shelton north on US 101 for 37 miles and turn left at Milepost 310 on Duckabush Road (which becomes FR 2510). Drive 6.3 miles and right onto FR 2530; 1.3 miles to the trailhead.
Olympic National Forest
There is no bridge or ferry service to little McMicken Island in Case Inlet. When the tide is low, a sandbar connects the island to Harstine Island allowing you to hike across to the park. Explore McMicken's trail meadow, and its rocky intertidal zone. But be aware of an incoming tide, lest you end up stranded. Start your hike from Harstine Island State Park taking the trail on the eastern end of the parking lot. The trail heads towards Case Inlet along the edge of a 100’ high forested bluff. It descends into a cool and dark ravine graced with big cedars and firs and reaches a junction. Head left here through a row of big cedars and via a series of steps descend into the ravine. After crossing a creek reach a deserted beach. Di rectly east lies Herron Island and the Key Peninsula. Look south to McMicken Island against a backdrop of Mount Rainier. If the tide is high, you’ll have to wait to hike the beach as overhanging trees prohibit passage. But in a low tide, a big wide beach awaits your footprints. Walk for more than a mile undulating between cobbles, mud and sand and crossing a handful of creeks. Look for eagles, herons and a myriad of seabirds. The entire way is on public tidelands. But a parcel of private property located between two large state park properties abuts the shoreline. Respect this posted private property.
Harstine Island State Park Ravine Trailhead Case Inlet McMicken Island N The tombolo (sandbar) is distinctive in low tides. But in high tides it is completely sub merged. It’s really fun to hike across when a receding tide first reveals it. Tap your inner Moses and part the seas watching the land bridge emerge as you cross it. Once across the sandy strip, reach Mc Micken Island. All of the island except for a small fenced parcel with a couple of cabins is state park property. At the island’s western end is a picnic area in a grassy opening. Near a composting toilet at the eastern edge of the field is a small nature trail. Hike it weaving a half mile through towering firs and madronas to bluff top views on the eastern end of the island. If time permits explore the rocky tide flats surrounding the island. Be sure to keep track of the incoming tide so you don’t get trapped on the island.
McMicken Island Highlights: Beach walk hike upon a spit to a small island; excellent birdwatching Distance: 4.0 miles round-trip Elevation gain: 150 feet Difficulty: Easy Permits: Discover Pass Season: Year round Notes: Hike is only possible in low tides. Consult tide tables and plan accordingly.
StateIslandMcMickenPark
Trailhead Directions: From Shelton, SR 3 east for 7.8 miles. Turn right onto Picker ing Rd and drive 3.3 miles. Bear left onto Harstine Bridge Rd and come to a T-junction upon entering Harstine Island. Go left on North Island Dr and after 3.0 miles turn right at the island community hall onto East Harstine Island Rd. Proceed for one mile and turn left onto Yates R. Continue 0.9 mile and turn right into Harstine Island State Park. Reach trailhead parking in 0.2 mile.
The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoors Ethics is a nonprofit developed for respon sible enjoyment and stewardship of the outdoors. They have designed a program to educate outdoor enthusiasts of their recreational impacts as well as created techniques to prevent and minimize such impacts. Their message is framed under seven principles: 1. Plan Ahead and Prepare 2. Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
Kid & Dog Friendly: Yes Amenities: Privies, picnic tables GPS waypoint: N47 15.737 W122 52.236
LEAVE NO TRACE
While hitting the trail we should all strive to have the smallest impact as possible on our public lands.
PrPrivateopertyTo (sandbar)mbolo
3. Dispose of Waste Properly 4. Leave What You Find 5. Minimize Campfire Impacts 6. Respect Wildlife 7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors Visit www.lnt.org to learn more.
69 FJORD
Contact/Map: Washington State parks.state.wa.us/545/McMicken-IslandParks;
LAND HARSTINE ISLAND & MCMICKEN ISLAND STATE PARKS
East Yates Rd BeachwalkRdndslIrstinetHEasaa To SR 3
Elwha Valley | Milepost 240, Olympic Hot Springs Rd, 10 miles Olympic National Park, pass required, dogs prohibited
Elwha River Valley | Olympic Hot Springs Rd 2.1 miles Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, ADA, dog-friendly Short walk to mossy maple and cedar lined grotto. This path is one of the few within the national park that is open to leashed dogs.
Thank you. Waterfall project made possible with Mason County Lodging Tax funding. explorehoodcanal.com
7. Murhut Falls (1.6 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY) Duckabush River Valley | FR 2510 6.3 miles, FR 2530, 1.3 miles Olympic National Forest, no pass required, kid/dog-friendly Well-built trail to 130’ two-tiered waterfall. Pacific rhododendrons line the trail in May and June.
Brinnon | US 101 Milepost 306, Dosewallips Rd 9.7 miles to trail Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, dog-prohibited Spectacular 100’ waterfall previously had vehicle access but now to reach waterfall you must hike or mountain bike closed road.
6. Hamma Hamma Falls (ROAD ACCESS – EASY) Lilliwaup | FR 25 for 13.3 miles Olympic National Forest, pass required, kid-friendly Bridge spans two-tiered falls (80’). Overhead view decent year round. On drive back, enjoy views of secondary falls along river.
Olympia & Hood Canal
Elwha River Valley | US 10, milepost 240, Olympic Hot Springs Rd, 4.0 miles, left onto dirt Whiskey Bend Rd, 4.2 miles to trail head Olympic National Park, pass required, dogs prohibited After a steep descent to river walk along the gravel bank of Wolf Creek to a fanning 25’ falls. Step back to see another tier above it.
5. Staircase Rapids Loop (2 MILE – EASY) Lake Cushman/Hoodsport | SR 119; FR 24 for 14.7 miles Olympic National Park, pass required, kid-friendly, no pets Follow river to suspension bridge, cross river and complete loop on North Fork Skokomish River back to Ranger Station.
8. Rocky Brook Falls (QUARTER MILE – EASY) Brinnon | Milepost 306 on US 101, Dosewallips Road 3 miles Private, no pass, kid/dog-friendly - check for closures Classic horsetail waterfall crashes more than 200’ from hanging valley. Summer, the cascade pool is a popular swimming hole.
9. Dosewallips Falls (9.0 MILE ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE)
ce ni c
12. Madison Creek Falls (0.2 MILE ROUND-TRIP – EASY)
a
4. Big Creek Cascades Loop (4.2 MILE – MODERATE) Lake Cushman / Hoodsport | SR 119 for 9.3 miles to trail head Olympic National Forest, pass required, kid/dog-friendly Loop utilizes old logging roads, new trails and series of bridges constructed by volunteers that continue to improve this loop.
15. Boulder Creek Falls (8.4 MILES ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE)
Hood Canal to the Pacific Coast & points between
13. Wolf Creek Falls (0.8 MILE ROUND-TRIP –MODERATE)
11. Striped Peak Falls (2.2 MILE RT– MODERATE)
25 SCENIC
5870
Receiving hundreds of inches of rain annually, the Hoh, Quinault and Queets Rainforests are located on the coastal foothills of the Olympics. With 21 feet of snow or rain at its peaks, it’s no wonder there is a myriad of waterfalls lacing the area. Explore this sampling curated by celebrated guidebook author and avid hiker, Craig Romano. Some are small, secret, and unique, others are popular but magnificent. All are worth the journey!
Lake Crescent & Elwha River
14. Goblins Gate (3.6 MILES ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE)
10. Fallsview Falls (0.2 MILE ROUND-TRIP – EASY)
Quilcene | US 101 at Falls View Campground. Trail in picnic area Olympic National Forest, pass required, kid/dog friendly, ADA Trail is ADA accessible to a falls cascading 100’. By late summer it trickles—but during the rainy season the falls put on a little show.
1. Tumwater Falls Loop (1 MILE – EASY) Olympia | Exit #103 off of I-5 S to Deschutes Way Tumwater Falls Park, no pass required, kid/dog friendly Iconic landmark, multi-tiered showy falls separated by gorge.
WATERFALLS
Elwha River Valley | milepost 240, Olympic Hot Springs Rd, 4 miles onto dirt Whiskey Bend Rd, 4.5 miles to trail head ONP, pass required, kid friendly, dogs prohibited Hike to a Elwha River gorge to a series of rapids.
Skokomish Valley Rd; 5.6 miles to FR 23; 2.3 miles to FR 2340 Olympic National Forest, no pass, caution: low guardrail Arched truss 685’ High Steel Bridge (1929) spans 375’ and is the 14th highest bridge in USA. Falls drop 250’ over canyon.
A series of cascades in valley with luxuriant old-growth forest. The hike is an all-day event but is remoter than nearby popular sites. cific c o s t s w a ter fall tr ai l
3. Vincent Creek Falls (ROAD ACCESS – EASY)
Salt Creek County Park | SR 112 , 7.2 miles, R. @ Camp Hayden Rd Clallam County Parks and WA DNR, no pass, dog-friendly Small but location in remote cliff-enclosed sea cove is stunning.
p a
2. Kennedy Creek Falls (6.8 MILE RT – MODERATE) Kamiliche | US 101 N, left at Old Olympic , mile to gate Forestry & WA DNR, no pass required, kid/dog friendly Descend to a grove of big trees — and the falls. Here Kennedy Creek tumbles over basalt flow.
Wynoochee Valley | FR 22 34 miles, FR 2312 5.8 miles, FR 2385 Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid-friendly, dog friendly
Capitol State Forest, Discover Pass required, kid/dog friendly
Wynoochee Valley | FR 22 34 miles, FR 23 2.5 mile to trail Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid-friendly, dog friendly 93’ falls plunge into a box canyon. Trail goes through old-growth forest to a viewpoint of falls dropping into the gorge.
18.Strawberry Bay Falls (3.6 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY Olympic Coast | SR 110 to Quillayute Prairie, 3.8 miles to trail Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, dogs prohibited Hike to Third Beach to witness this waterfall tumbling more than 100’ from a towering headland into the surf.
Quinault Rainforest | South Shore Rd 2.3 miles to trail Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid / dog friendly Not the tallest, nor most popular of the waterfalls within the Quinault Rainforest, Cascade Falls is perhaps the prettiest.
Quinault Rainforest | South Shore Rd from US 101, 6.7 miles Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid-friendly, dog friendly
22.
Overlooked by many due to its close proximity to Wynoochee Falls, this is a pleasant surprise in a quiet corner of the Olympics.
16. Marymere Falls (1.8 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY)
17. Sol Duc Falls (1.6 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY)
19. Mineral Creek Falls (5.0 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY)
20. Cascade Falls Loop ( .7 MILES LOOP – EASY)
21. Merriman Falls (ROADSIDE—MINIMAL WALKING)
Quinault Rainforest | South Shore Rd from US 101, 13 miles to Quinault River Bridge,right on Graves Creek Rd 6.2 miles
ONP Wilderness Permits required, kid-friendly, no dog Behold its stunning backdrop of sheer cliffs 3,000 feet high
24. Maidenhair Falls (1 MILE ROUND-TRIP – EASY)
The falls plummet 40 feet over a mossy and ferny ledge into a mossy tangle of boulders and saturated logs. Enchanted Valley of 10,000 Waterfalls (26 MILES ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE BACKPACKING TRIP)
streaked with waterfalls and hanging snow and ice. Full descriptions: waterfalltrail.org 15 1 2 3 4 65 87 109 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 19 20 21 23222425 CAPE FLATTERYLAKECRESCENT LAKE KALALOCHOZETTELAPUSH QUINAULT PORT ANGELESSHELTONHOODSPORTOLYMPIABELFAIR TACOMASEATTLE PORT TOWNSEND NationalOlympic Park QUILCENEBRINNON NOTE: MAP NOT TO SCALE, FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. For full descriptions on all these waterfalls including maps, updates and images, visit: WATERFALLTRAIL.ORG ®2020 | Information and images courtesy of Craig Romano. Craig has written more than 20 guidebooks including Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula 2nd Edition www.waterfalltrail.org ABERDEEN (including map coordinates)
Pacific Coast & Quinault
Sol Duc River Valley | Sol Duc Hot Springs Road, 14 miles to trail Olympic National Park, pass required, kid-friendly, no dogs ONP’s most photographed waterfall. The falls tumble about 40’ into a tight slot and abruptly flow at a right angle into the gorge.
Hoh Rainforest | Upper Hoh Rd from US 101, 18 miles to trail Olympic National Park, pass required, kid-friendly, no dogs Tucked within towering Sitka spruces, firs, and maples in the rain forest this pleasant hike follows along the glacier-fed Hoh River.
Porter Creek Rd, 2.9 miles B-0150 Rd, .5 mile, B-Line 0.9 mile
23. Spoon Creek Falls (6 MILE ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE)
71 FJORD59 FJORD
Wynoochee River Valley
Lake Crescent | milepost 228, right at Lake Crescent Lodge Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, dogs prohibited A popular waterfall on the Olympic Peninsula, if it was harder to reach, this 90’ horsetail cascade would still be well-visited.
25. Porter Falls (1.6 MILE ROUND-TRIP – EASY)
Located at the confluence of the South and West Forks of Porter Creek. Here one branch cuts through a cleft while the other plunges over a ledge into a big punchbowl.
