A fun look at all wild the creatures that call the Fjord home.
SASQUATCH 31
A look at the myth and questions surrounding Big Foot.
COVER: ELBO CREEK 14
CraiG Romano shows another place to explore.
Welcoming Spring Along the Fjord
With the arrival of spring, the waters of the Canal begin to stir, the days grow longer, and our communities once again come alive with connection, creativity, and celebration.
As we share the 36th edition of Tracing the Fjord, we want to begin by thanking you—our readers, contributors, and supporters—for continuing to make this publication a place where local stories, history, and voices thrive. Your ongoing support allows us to document the "rhythms" along the Fjord, from quiet shoreline mornings to lively community gatherings, highlighting the people, places, and traditions that make this region so special.
This season brings an exciting lineup of events that reflect both our deep roots and our evolving traditions. We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Old Timers Fair in Matlock, where history and hometown spirit take center stage. We’re also thrilled to celebrate June's Fjordin Crossin and the Paddle the Canal Challenge—growing every year and bringing back familiar faces and cherished memories to our waterfronts. Rumor is our favorite intertidal beach party, Hama Hama's Rama is returing in April, and this year marks the debut of the Sawdust Arts Festival, a brand-new event showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of our local artists.
In this issue, be sure to check out Robbins’ fascinating article on the weird and wonderful creatures that live beneath the surface of the Canal. And don’t miss John DeLeva’s remarkable journey across America visiting every county and territory—a tale of discovery and the diverse tapestry of our nation.
As you turn these pages, we hope you’ll feel the same sense of curiosity, pride, and appreciation that inspires us each season. Thank you for being part of the Tracing the Fjord family. We invite you to enjoy this spring edition, mark your calendars, and join us in celebrating another vibrant season along the Fjord.
Thom Robbins takes us on a curious journey under the sea.
The eternal mystery lives on -- deep in the Olympic Forest. USA, 3092 WAYS
DeLeva takes us on a journey to visit America and its colonies. SHELLFISH REGS 47 Protecting Public Health Without Crushing Small Farm
Events & Happenings around the fjord
ONGOING EVENTS
Shelton School Board Meeting
2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 6 PM Mt. View Elementary School
Hood Canal Kiwanis Sewing Club
Tuesdays, 2 - 4 PM, St Germains 600 Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport
Builder Tuesdays
Tuesdays, 10 - 2 PM, Shelton Library
Cribbage at Bent Bine Brew
Tuesdays, Sign-up begins at 5 PM tournaments at 6 PM with cash prizes. 23297 HWY 3, Belfair
Open Mic Night at El Serape Cantina
First Tuesday of each month 318 W Railroad Ave, Shelton
Bookmobile in Brinnon & Quilcene
Tuesdays, 10–12 PM Brinnon Comm Center Tuesdays,1:30 – 4 PM Quilcene Comm.
Trivia Night at Alderbrook Resort
Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8 PM, Union
Open Mic night at Hood Canalé Wednesdays, 6871 E SR 106, Union
Trivia Night at Bent Bine Brew Co. Fridays, 7 PM, FREE 23297 HWY 3, Belfair
Trivia Night at Potlatch
Every 4th Friday, 6-8PM, FREE, 24180 N US 101 Hoodsport
North Mason Eagles Karaoke Fridays, 7 PM, 80 NE Alder Creek Ln, Belfair
Saturday Night Bingo in Brinnon Saturdays, 6:45 PM, 151 Corey Street, Brinnon
Bookmobile in Brinnon & Quilcene Saturdays, 10 – 12 PM Brinnon Comm Center Saturdays, 1:30 – 4 PM Quilcene Comm Center
Bingo at Brinnon Booster Club
Bingo Saturday night at 6:45pm 151 Corey Street. Brinnon
Craft Club at Marmo Caffè & Gallery
Every 2nd and 4th Sunday, 11 - 2 PM 217 W Cota St, Shelton
Live Music at Bent Bine Brew Co. Saturdays, 5PM, 23297 HWY 3, Belfair
Fjordin Crossin and Paddle the Canal
Saturday, June 13, 11:00 AM-3:00 PM
Port of Hoodsport, Hoodsport
Bring your own watercraft or rent a kayak to compete in the challlenge to cross Hood Canal. fjordincrossin.com
Joon Bug Full Moon Yoga at Alderbrook 7:00 - 8:30 PM, 10 E. Alderbrook Dr. Union
This 90-minute class includes an all levels full moon theme yoga practice with mantra designed to balance the energy centers (chakras) and connect with the full moon.
WORM MOON - March 3 (indoors)
PINK MOON - April 2, (indoors)
FLOWER MOON - May 1 (indoors)
BLUE MOON - May 31 (indoors)
STRAWBERRY MOON - June 29 (outside)
BUCK MOON - July 29 (outside)
Class is open to everyone and registration is required. joonbugyoga.com
McReavy House, Union WA
Open for historical tours Saturday and Sundays from 1-4 PM, Memorial Day – Labor Day.
FEBRUARY
BEST FRIENDS FRIDAYS: “You Have Our Hearts"
Friday, February 13, 3:30-7 PM Railroad Ave, Shelton
Date night, girls’ night out, or a solo stroll downtown, explore a mix of antiques, vintage finds, sweets, and specialty items. Shops are stocked with specials, making it a great chance to find something meaningful for a valentine— or a little something just for yourself.
GALENTINE’S DAY Workshop
Friday, February 13, 4:00 PM
217 West Cota St, Shelton House Flowers is hosting a flower arrangement workshop at Marmo. Floral design demonstration, a glass of bubbles, and an abundant mix of sustainably sourced blooms to select from. A good fit for anyone looking for a thoughtful gift experience. $125/person.
ROWDY RYAN BAKER & THE WHISKEY BANDITS Live
Friday, February 13, 6:00 PM 324 W Railroad Ave, Shelton
2026 VALENTINE’S SENIOR PROM at Maple Glen
Friday, February 13, 6:30 PM 1700 N.13th Loop Rd, Shelton Celebrate with music, dancing, food, and drinks. For questions or to RSVP, 360-427-0300.
THIS MURDER WAS STAGED –DESSERT THEATRE
Friday, February 13, 7:00 PM (repeats Saturday & Sunday) 1212 Connection St Shelton
A humorous whodunit with a zany cast who accuse — and defend — themselves. Tickets available online at Faith Lutheran or cash at the door, $15.
February 13, 7:00 PM Saturday, February 14, 7:00 PM Sunday, February 15, 2:00 PM
Waddington Brothers Live
Friday, February 13, 7:00 PM 3737 Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton North Dakota brothers—Seth, Ethan, Jacob, and Job—bring a blend of Bluegrass and Western music. Season tickets for the remaining 2025–26 concerts are available at a discounted rate of $80 for adults, with families able to add all children under 18 for $10 total. Single tickets for this performance are $30 for adults, and children under 18 attend free with a paying adult. More information and season pass details at masoncountyconcerts.org or by calling 360-490-1098.
15th Annual Hood Canal Polar Plunge
Sunday, February 14, 9 AM
10 E Alderbrook Dr. Union
Plunge is open to anyone who raises a minimum pledge of $30. Top fundraisers will be recognized in one of three categories: Community Member, Emergency Worker and Business. ALL proceeds benefit Mason County Emergency Services.
VALENTINE'S AT LOBLOLLLY
February 14 - February 15
2950 SE Lynch Road, Shelton Guests can gather around fire pits to stay warm, sip cocoa, and browse the lavender shop for gifts. The farm will be open from noon to 6 PM on both February weekends.
Ancient Aphrodisiac: Valentine’s Pop-Up
Saturday, February 14, 6:00 PM
217 West Cota St., Shelton
Visit Marmo's for sexy bites by Medium AEvum, music by Quinn Trivett and featuring a Medieval photo booth.Come dressed for a night of courtly love. $69, 18+, tickets at marmogallery.com
Valentine's Tide to Table at the Fjord
Saturday, February 14, 1 - 7 PM
24341 U.S. 101 Hoodsport Fjord Oyster Bank Valentine’s dining brings a date day/night vibe to Hoodsport. Centered on locally harvested shellfish, the evening is designed as a romantic, all-inclusive dinner experience that leans hard into seasonal flavors. Regular menu is available & Valentines special $75/person. Reservations, (360) 877-2102.
Valentine's at Alderbrook Golf
Saturday, February 14, 5:00 PM
330 East Country Club Dr E, Union Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club is offering a special menu Valentine's Day. Reservations are required and can be made at 360-898-2560.
DESIGN MATTERS
“Let Us Be Your Guides”
The Munn Bro's specialize in waterfront homes and acreage in the N.W. Hood Canal which includes Lake Leland, Dabob Bay, Quilcene and Brinnon areas. Enjoy the extended spring and autumn seasons of the Hood Canal. Munn Bro’s agents are thankful for the wonderful people in this pristine area that make it a unique place to live. Experience outdoor activities, wild crafting mushrooms, wildlife, locally grown food, and an abundance of fresh seafood.
Jim Munn Bruce Munn Kalan Hatton
360.301.4700 360.301.4026
Owner/Broker
360.531.4419
Select the most knowledgeable and experienced agents to guide you in the purchase or sale of your property. Our team truly know the homes and land of West Hood Canal. Stop by our new office at 294772 Hwy.101in Quilcene for FREE maps, tide books and local insight of this beautiful area.
In this class, you will practice object observation, drawing, carving, and printing of an oyster. Take home your carved rubber block and your original art prints. Ages 16+ due to use of sharp tools. Tickets at mollywheatbaker.com
Wade in the Water
Sunday, February 15, 4:00 PM 1430 East Shelton Springs Road, Shelton Great Bend Center for Music presents a chamber music program centered on the spirituals, folk tunes, and rhythms that shaped the African American experience—and the American sound that grew from it. The concert features works by composers: William Grant Still and Florence Price, whose music blends beauty, resilience, and cultural identity with rich string writing and expressive harmonies. greatbendmusic.org
Shelton Writes
Tuesday, February 17, 4:00-5:30 PM 710 W Alder St, Shelton
Writers of all ages gather to talk, write, and support each other at the Shelton Library. Have fun with writing exercises, stretch yourself with challenges, work on your projects, and share what you are writing.
Maddy Fisher
Block Print
Oyster With Molly Wheat Baker
Youth Connection Valentine's Dance
Friday, February 20, 5:00 PM 123 South 2nd St, Shelton Semi-formal evening for ages 12–24. The event is open to everyone, whether attending with friends, a partner, or solo. The night will feature live DJ Sashia Marie, along with games and other activities throughout the evening. There will be awards for Best Dressed, Staff Choice, Cutest Couple, and Most Spirited. Food includes Westside Pizza. For anyone who needs it, dresses and button-ups will be available at the event.
Chamber Luncheon:Timber in Mason County
Friday, February 20, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Mason PUD 3, Shelton Green Diamond staff will share work in the region, discuss recent operational changes in Mason County, and explore what these shifts mean for our economy and workforce. To make reservation, masonchamber.com/luncheons.
Sara Tweed Live at the Cantina
Friday, February 20, 6:00 - 9:00 PM 324 West Railroad Ave, Shelton
Nate Todd Live at the Geoduck
Saturday, February 21,7:00 - 9:00 PM 307103 U.S. 101, Brinnon Denver-based indie artist Nate Todd, known for his roots-forward sound and thoughtful songwriting. FREE
National Margarita Day
Sunday, February 22, 11:00 AM 324 W Railroad Ave, Shelton All-day fiesta at the Cantina. This is a 21+ event and runs all day
FREE Community Event:PJs and Puzzles
Tuesday, February 24, 6:00 - 7:30 791 NE Sand Hill Rd Belfair Cozy, low-key evening promoting teamwork and relaxation. Free hot cocoa and cider.
ARTIFISHAL IDIOTS: The Flying Karamazov Brothers
February 26 – March 1
Joseph Wheeler Theatre at Fort Worden 25 Eisenhower Ave, Port Townsend
A one-of-a-kind theatrical experience delivering nonstop laughter and jaw-dropping physical feats. $40 GA/$20 – Kids on matinees only Tickets visit: theproductionalliance.org
North Mason Annual Awards Gala
Friday, February 27, 6:00 PM
Alderbrook Resort & Spa, Union
The program includes food and circus themed live entertainment, Chamber’s annual awards, interactive sponsorship moments, and a photo booth by Cooper Studios. RSVP at: northmasonchamber.chambermaster.com
Live Music with Cody Bartels
Friday, February 27, 6:00 PM
324 West Railroad Ave, Shelton
PAINT AND SIP SCUBA TANK
Saturday, February 28, 5:30 - 7:30 PM
22320 N Hwy 101, Potatch
Relaxed art night has a fun twist: participants can paint a discarded scuba tank as their canvas. Bring your own discarded tank, or pick one up at the shop. Details: yssdive.com
MARCH
Hood Canal Improvement Club Presents: Sasquatch! The Past. The Present. Beyond. Tuesday, March 3,5:30 -7:30 PM
Sacred Waters (Harmony Hill), Union WA
A fun, thought-provoking evening with Marc Myrsell our featured professional speaker exploring local Sasquatch lore, history, and the mysteries of the Pacific Northwest. Skeptics, believers, and curious welcome! Tickets: $15/$20. RSVP: hoodcanalimprovementclub.org.
Shelton Writes
Tuesday, March 3, 4:00-5:30 PM
Shelton Library, 710 W Alder St, Shelton
Writers of all ages gather to talk, write, and support each other.
Sheriff Luncheon at the Fjord Oyster Bank
Friday, March 6, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
24341 U.S. 101 Hoodsport
KITTY MAE Live
Friday, March 6, 6:00 - 9:00 PM
324 West Railroad Avenue, Shelton
Port Townsend Home Show
Saturday, March 7, 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM
3939 San Juan Ave, Port Townsend
50 local exhibitors, FREE
Wilde Auction for Southside DC/NYC
Saturday, March 7, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Wilde Irish Pub, Railroad Ave, Shelton
Live and silent auction to support student trip.
Shelton Peninsula Art Association
Thursday, March 12, 1-3 PM
525 W Cota St, Shelton
Monthly meetings to check us out and spend some time with other artists. Meetings often include show and tell and an agenda item, sometimes a mini class and sometimes a featured speaker. You can apply for membership prior to at or after our meeting.
ST. PADDLES DAY AT ALDERBROOK
Saturday, March 14, 8:30 AM
Alderbrook Resort and Spa, Union Festive aquatic race offers multiple distances and welcomes both competitive paddlers and casual cruisers. Off the water: enjoy local artists showcasing and selling their work, beer & cocktails available for purchase, and Live music to keep the good vibes flowing.
FOREST FESTIVAL CORONATION NIGHT
Saturday, March 14, 6:00 PM
3737 North Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton
Introducing the Forest Festival scholarship contestants and reveal the winning button category and overall button artwork design for the year. Guests will also see the selection and crowning of the 2026 Junior Royalty, followed by the announcement and crowning of the 2026 Royalty Court and scholarship recipients.
Free Admission at Harbor History Museum
Saturday, March 16, 11:00 - 4:00 PM
4121 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor
Details: harborhistorymuseum.org
Safety Day 2026
Saturday, March 14, 10:00 AM
141 W Airview Way, Shelton
Hosted by Skydive Kapowsin, an opportunity for skydivers to prepare for the new jump season. Review and of safety procedures, seminars from skydiving operation professionals and experts, equipment evaluations and more.
BURGER BASKET
THE BROTHERS DOOBIE Tribute Band
Sunday, March 15, 3:00 - 5:00 PM
3737 North Shelton Springs Road, Shelton The Brothers Doobie are known for their ability to recreate the signature harmonies, grooves, and stage presence that defined the Doobie Brothers’ sound in the 1970s and 1980s. masoncountyconcert.org
Shelton Writes
Tuesday, March 17, 4:00-5:30 PM
Shelton Library, 710 W Alder St, Shelton Writers of all ages gather to talk, write, and support each other. Have fun with writing exercises, stretch yourself with challenges, work on your projects, and share what you are writing.
State Parks' 113th Birthday!
Thursday, March 19, State Parks FREE Day
KAYAKING & OYSTER SHUCKING TOUR
March 20- 22 (varied times)
251 Hjelvicks Road Brinnon
A guided tour launching from Yelvik’s Beach. Four-hour experience combines paddling, wildlife viewing, and oyster harvesting on Hood Canal. hoodcanaladventures.com
Hama Hama Farm Day
Friday, March 20, 12:00 - 2:00 PM
Hama Hama Oyster Co, Lilliwaup
Harvest shellfish and learn about intertidal ecology and farming. Each $85 ticket includes: 3 dz u-pick oysters ,clams (~3 lbs), a bucket with enough ice to keep your product cold on the drive home, and beach entry for 2 adults. Kids Free. hamahamaoysters.com
TIDE POOL EXPLORING KAYAKING TOUR
March 20- 22 (varied times)
306146 U.S. 101, Brinnon
Naturalist-guided tour that combines kayaking with exploration of Hood Canal’s intertidal ecosystem. This 2.5-hour tour is for all ages and is popular with families and anyone curious about marine life. hoodcanaladventures.com
Darkwood Nights Larping Weekend
March 20 – March 22
970 Bee Mill Rd, Brinnon
Three-day role play experience set in a haunting alternate version of the 10th century, monsters roam the forests and supernatural forces lurk in the shadows. darkwoodnights.org
Theler Wetlands Nature Center Open House
Saturday, March 21, 10 AM -1PM
22803 WA-33, Belfair, WA 98528
Visitors will see the work HCSEG has been implementing to re-open TWNC, take a look at the future vision for the space and provide feedback, and learn about the restoration and trail reconnection.
YSS Dive Rental Gear Sale
Saturday, March 28, 9:00 AM
22320 N HWY 101, Potlatch
Array of sizes, and brands, anything from dry suits to tanks, first come first serve.
Simpson Easter Bunny Special
Saturday, March 28, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
10138 W Shelton Matlock Rd, Shelton
Take a ride on one of the Simpson Railroad's historic cabooses. Meet the Easter Bunny, enjoy hot cocoa, hunt for Easter eggs around the museum and grounds. Kids collect 6 eggs to exchange for a treat bag with candy and toys. Kids$16 (2-12), Adult $20, simpsonrailroad.org
Southside School Booster Club Auction
Saturday, March 28, 4:00 PM
190 West Sentry Dr, Shelton
Food, beer, wine, seltzers, and a mix of live and silent auctions to raise funds for student programs. Tickets: southsideboosterclub1@gmail.com
KAYAKING & OYSTER SHUCKING TOUR
Monday, March 30, 8:30 AM
251 Hjelvicks Road Brinnon
A guided tour launching from Yelvik’s Beach. This four-hour experience combines paddling, wildlife viewing, and oyster harvesting. hoodcanaladventures.com
2026 Legislative Wrap-Up
Tuesday, March 31, 7:45 AM- 9:00 AM
Shelton Civic Center, 525 Cota St, Shelton
Hear directly from state legislators following this year's session. RSVP by Wednesday, March 25 at (360) 426-2276. Discussion with Sen. Drew MacEwen, Rep. Dan Griffey, and Rep. Travis Couture. Sponsored by Our Community Credit Union and Peninsula Credit Union. Moderated by KMAS radio.
Karen Hillburn Mother's Day Dash Sunday, May 10 | Shelton Huff & Puff Trail
Harvest shellfish and learn about intertidal ecology and farming. $85 ticket includes: 3 dz oysters ,clams (~3 lbs), a bucket with ice and beach entry for 2 adults. Kids free. hamahamaoysters.com
Sheriff Luncheon at the Fjord Oyster Bank
Friday, April 3, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM 24341 U.S. 101 Hoodsport
Mason County Seniors Spring Bazaar
Saturday, April 4, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM 190 West Sentry Dr, Shelton
Hosted at the Pavilion Events Center this event brings together more than 25 local vendors along with homemade baked goods.
Easter Brunch Buffet
Sunday, April 5, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM 790 E Saint Andrews Drive, Shelton Reservations required, lakelimerick.com
Shelton Peninsula Art Monthly Meeting
Thursday, April 9, 1-3 PM
525 W Cota St, Shelton
Meetings include show and tell and an agenda item, sometimes a mini class and sometimes a featured speaker.
Best Friends Friday: April in Paris Shelton
Friday, April 10, 3:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Downtown Shelton
Free Day at the Harbor History Museum
Saturday, April 11, 11:00 - 4:00 PM
4121 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor
Details: harborhistorymuseum.org
OLYMPUS RALLY
Friday, April 17 – Sunday, April 19
Shelton, details: olympusrally.com
Hama Hama Oyster Rama
April 18-19
Hama Hama Oyster Co, Liliwaup
Intertidal tours, u-pick oysters and clams, oyster-sports, a beer and wine garden, kids' activities, live music, and food. Visit hamahamaoysters.com for updates and tickets.
MidAtlantic Men Live Concert
Sunday, April 19, 3:00 PM
3737 North Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton
The show features two Americans and one Brit—who turn a classic question into a full afternoon of music: does the U.S. or the U.K. have the better songs? Between the hits, the group keeps things moving with playful banter. They’ve also toured extensively— and offstage, each member brings creative skills, with work spanning voiceover, film/TV, composing, writing, and comedy. For audiences, it’s part concert, part friendly “battle of the hits,” delivered with tight harmonies. Tickets masoncountyconcerts.org
Denim & Diamonds Dinner Auction
Sunday, April 19, 4-7:30 PM
10 E Alderbrook Dr, Union
Hosted by the Karen Hilburn Cancer Fund, live and silent auction. karenhilburncancerfund.org
WA Parks FREE DAY April 22–Earth Day!
Wednesday, April 22, all day free at Washington State Parks
*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Fixed‑Rate HELOC: 5‑year draw period, 10‑year repayment. Variable‑Rate HELOC: 12‑year draw period, 15‑year repayment. Rates: Based on the Prime Rate (currently 7.00%) as published in the Wall Street Journal. Rates may change monthly. Variable rates will not exceed 18.00% and will not fall below 4.50% for first‑position HELOCs or 5.50% for second‑position.Adjustments: Rates adjust semi‑annually on January 1 and July 1. First position: 0.00%
Amounts & Terms: Maximum loan: $200,000 (1st mortgage) / $150,000 (2nd mortgage) Fixed‑rate term: up to 120 monthsVariable‑rate term: up to 180 months Fixed‑rate HELOC includes interest only costs.Payment
Examples: Fixed: $100,000 at 7.25% APR for 120 months ≈ $1,174.01/month Variable: $100,000 at 7.00% APR for 180 months ≈ $899/month (Estimated payments; actual payment depends on principal balance and draw period.) Additional Information: Terms and conditions apply and depend on qualification. Membership and credit approval required. Rates, terms, and programs may change without notice. Contact us for details. Rates set by the Board of Directors.
From our farm to your table.
Proudly serving:
Potlatch Brewery Co.
Stottle Winery
Finnriver Cider
Sea Nymph Oysters
Seattle Shellfish Geoduck
Hama Hama Oysters
– and the culinary creations of Chef Xinh Dwelley
Stop by for FREE maps, Fjord Magazine, and local concierge service. Located across from the Hoodsport Fish Hatchery on Hwy 101.
Winter hours restaurant
Thursday -Saturday 4:30 – 7 PM
Bookshop opening in March
Local Author Showcase
Saturday, April 25, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
600 N. Lake Cushman Rd., Hoodsport Engage directly with local authors readings excerpts of their work. Gain insights into what inspired the author to write, ask them questions about past, present, and future works. All genres from children’s books, historical novels, spiritual thrillers, firefighting, to outdoor activities.
Quilcene Blessing of the Fleet
Saturday, April 25, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
An ecumenical blessing ceremony and parade of vessels, traditional live maritime music, information kiosks, Bay tours, waterfront open houses, and local foods. The event is free and open to the public.
MAY
Sheriff Luncheon at the Fjord Oyster Bank
Friday, May 1, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
24341 U.S. 101 Hoodsport
Matlock Old Timer's Historical Fair
Saturday & Sunday, May 2-3
2987 Matlock-Brady Road, Matlock Vendors, exhibits, food, music and activities for the whole family. FREE
Shelton Farmers Market Opening Day
Saturday, May 2, 10 AM - 3 PM
425 Cota Street, Shelton
For d
Vintage Garden Mother’s Day Market
Friday,May 8, 2PM - 8 PM
Saturday, May 9,10 AM to 4 PM
Sunday, May 10,10 AM to 4 PM
129 N. 3rd St, Shelton
Stroll through curated vintage treasures, handmade goods, artisan gifts, home décor, garden finds, and sweet treats. Bring your mom, grandmother, or someone special and make a day of it—because Mother’s Day deserves something truly special. (360) 426-5637
Adopt A Pet Annual Plant Sale
Saturday, May 9, 9 AM – 3 PM
Our Community Credit Union
2948 Olympic Hwy North, Shelton
Sales support all-volunteer run dog shelter.
Opening Day at Vance Creek Railriders
Saturday, May 9
421 W Hanks Lake Rd, Shelton
Pedal historic Simpson Railway. vcrailriders.com
Karen Hillburn Mother's Day Dash
Sunday, May 10, 8:30 AM- 10:30 AM
Huff & Puff Trail, Shelton
All proceeds go directly to assist residents of Mason County with medical expenses.
Shelton Peninsula Art Monthly Meeting
Thursday, May 14, 1-3 PM
525 W Cota St, Shelton
Rhododendron Festival
Wednesday, May 13-17
Fort Worden State Park, Port Townsend
Fjodin Crossin IPA Release Party
Friday, May 15 | Potlatch Brewing, Hoodsport
Pop over to Hardware Distillery to sample our NEW Aquavit cocktails!
SAWDUST ARTS FESTIVAL
Saturday, May 16, 10:00 - 5:00 PM
24341 U.S. 101, Hoodsport
Festival features galleries, hands-on workshops, live music, and performances, all designed to highlight the region’s creative spirit and deep connection to its timber roots. The event also marks the launch of the Mason County Forest Festival, blending arts and culture with local tradition. Festival-goers can expect appearances by Paul Bunyan and Babe, the Forest Festival Royalty Court. For details on participating in this new event email anna@nwevent.org.
Pickering Community Club’s Plant and Bake Sale
Saturday, May 16, 9- 2:00 PM
151 E. Community Club Road, Shelton
Proceeds from the plant and back sale benefit the historic Grant School, a former one-room schoolhouse and current community gathering venue. www.thegrantschool.org
30th
Spring Spell-E-Bration
Saturday, May 16 | 190 W Sentry Dr, Shelton
DISC GOLF CASCADE CHALLENGE
Friday, May 29 – Sunday, May 31
3676 North Shelton Springs Road Shelton
The Cascade Challenge returns for the 4th year on the DGPT and will be played at Shelton Springs Disc Golf Course. discgolfscene.com
MASON COUNTY FOREST FESTIVAL
Friday, May 28 – Sunday, May 31
Free family festival weekend celebrating our logging heritage, along with wildfire prevention. Features music, parade, vendors, car show and logging exhibition and fireworks. masoncountyforestfestival.com
JUNE
Sheriff Luncheon at the Fjord Oyster Bank
Friday, June 5, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM 24341 U.S. 101 Hoodsport
3rd Annual Hood Canal Salmon Run - 5K
Saturday, June 6, 600 NE Roessel Rd, Belfair
WA State Parks Free Fishing Weekend!
Saturday, June 6, 2026 Sunday June 7 Free days apply only to day use (not overnight stays or rented facilities).
Fjordin Crossin and Paddle the Canal
Saturday, June 13, 11:00 AM-3:00 PM Port of Hoodsport, Hoodsport
Family-friendly waterfront event celebrating the release of Hardware Distillery's "Dill Aquavit" in conjunction with a crossing of over 150 paddlers. Don't miss out on oysters from Fjord Oyster Bank, children's activities and 20+ vendors while cheering on our local Vikings arriving to Hoodsport's dock on their custom-made ship! Watch the Sons of Norway and Scandinavian fiddlers lead the sidewalk parade. Bring your own watercraft or rent a kayak to compete across the Canal. fjordincrossin.com
Brinnon Shrimpfest
Saturday, June 20, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
20 Brinnon Ln, Brinnon
Entrance is free for all attendees with food, live music, activities -- and yes, Hood Canal shrimp!
MotoAmerica Superbikes Race
June 26 – June 28
1060 West Eells Hill Road Shelton
With food, drinks, live entertainment, and activities for all ages- there’s something for everyone! Tickets at www.ridgetickets.com
SAVE THE DATE
Bluegrass From The Forest
July 10 – July 12
2100 East Johns Prairie Road Shelton
The outdoor festival features four major concerts throughout the three days highlighting top talent from across the nation. The music ranges from traditional bluegrass to the more progressive styles. Tickets start at just $20/ entire weekend $55. KIDS free or discounted depending on age. Camping on site just $15/night! bluegrassfromtheforest.com
Expo & Bite of Mason County Street Fair
Friday July 17, 11:30 AM - 6:30 PM
Railroad Avenue, Shelton
Admission is free and open to the public.
ALLYN DAYS: Salmon Bake & Geoduck Festival
July 17-19 | Allyn
A weekend packed with delicious seafood, exciting activities, live entertainment, and fun for the whole family (including pets)!
Peace Love Union
Saltwater Songwriters Festival
July 23-25 | Union
A gathering of songwriters featuring unique preformance opportunities around Hood Canal. peaceloveandunion.net
Hoodstock
August 14-15 | Union
Reserve lodging now for this immersive three day music floating and land based music festival featuring a fantastic line up of bands and solo singers a well as artists, vendors and hands-on opportunities. Visit hoodstock.org for details and schedule.
OLD TIMER’S historical fair
Each spring, as trees turn impossibly green, the tiny timber town of Matlock opens its arms to visitors from near and far for one of its most beloved traditions: the Old Timer’s Historical Fair.
Held on the campus of Mary M. Knight School, this free, family-friendly celebration, held in the first full weekend in May, blends small-town charm with hands-on history and good old-fashioned fun. Live music drifts across the grounds. Children line up for train rides and a giant slide. Antique tractors rumble past in a lively parade.
Food is reason enough to attend. Local favorites fill the air with irresistible aromas, from classic fair treats to a hearty pulled pork dinner. And don't forget the pies. Have a warmed piece on site or take home the whole pie -- come early the favorite flavors et snatched up fast! Throughout the weekend, visitors can browse antique booths, shop for handcrafted goods, pick up starter plants and vegetables, and bid on treasures at the silent auction. A popular firewood raffle and prize drawings add to the excitement.
At the heart of the fair is Matlock’s proud logging heritage. Historical displays inside and around the school buildings region’s story, while the nearby museum offers a deeper look at early life in this aricultural and timber based community. Classic cars, vintage tractors, agricultural exhibits, and live demonstrations bring the past to life.
Kids’ activities throughout the campus help make this a true all-ages outing. It’s the kind of event where neighbors greet each other by name—and visitors quickly feel like locals.
The 2026 Old Timer’s Historical Fair takes place May 2-3 at Mary M. Knight School, at 2987 Matlock-Brady Road, about five miles south of the Matlock Store and 15 miles north of Highway 8. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. For event details, visit explorehoodcanal.com/events//OldTimersFair.
Old Timer's Historical Fair
Saturday & Sunday, May 2-3
Saturday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Sunday 10:00 AM -4:00 PM
Mary M Knight School
2987 Matlock-Brady, Rd
For details call:(360) 426-5637
ELBO CREEK
CRAIG ROMANO | STORY & IMAGES
There’s plenty of elbow room on the Elbo Creek Trail, but there aren’t any views of the creek. A long abandoned trail built by the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) in the 1930s; it was resurrected by the Washington Trails Association (WTA) 15 years ago. Despite the trailhead being less than a quarter mile from US 101, this trail doesn’t get crowded.
Distance: 4.6 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1770 feet
High Point: 2600 feet
Difficulty: moderate
Snow free: Year round
Notes: Hike extension to Gap usually snow covered from Dec through March. Extended hike adds 3.8 more miles round-trip and 700 feet more of elevation gain. Trailhead Pass Needed: None
Primarily forested, view seekers tend to shun it. But an exceptional view of Mount Constance awaits for those willing to go a little farther—and Elbo’s forest delights with its rhododendrons and stately conifers. It’s a perfect trail for an overcast spring day.
HIT THE TRAIL
The Elbo Creek Trail once began from the Rainbow Campground and Guard Station a short distance north of the current trailhead. The Guard Station is long gone and nothing remains. But the campground was in operation into the 1990s and relics remain. This spot is now the trailhead for the short Rainbow Canyon Trail which follows Elbo Creek descending into the ravine carved out by the Big Quilcene River. This trail was once part of the Big Quilcene River Trail. From here it followed the river to Big Quil Camp, intersected the Tunnel Creek Trail and continued all the way to Marmot Pass.
All of that trail remains except for the stretch from Rainbow Canyon to its current trailhead.
The Elbo Creek Trail took off south from the Rainbow Camp and Guard Station climbing steep slopes above Elbo Creek to Buck Mountain. A 1935 map of Olympic National Forest shows the trail heading to a logging operation. There doesn’t appear to have been a fire lookout tower on Buck Mountain, so I ‘m not sure where this trail terminated. Logging in the 1960s and 70s obliterated much of the route. But WTA was able to restore a good stretch of the lower trail’s original route.
From the trailhead follow the trail and steadily ascend a steep ridge. The trail’s grade however is moderate following switchbacks through second-growth Douglas-firs and western hemlocks. Salal and rhododendrons line the well-constructed tread.
During May and June, the rhodies add touches of purple and pink to the emerald landscape. Elbo Creek is out of view in the ravine below, but you can hear it cascading downslope.
At two miles the trail makes a sharp bend left to leave the original trail bed. You’ll immediately notice the difference in the tread. The CCC had built many of their trails for horses with wide right-of-ways and a well-packed foundation. The trail now following newer tread heads east and soon terminates in a large blowdown area at 2.3 miles.
Enjoy a view out to Mount Walker to the northeast and Quilcene Ridge to the northwest. The view isn’t stunning and you haven’t hiked too far to get here, so consider carrying on. From the windfall, located a well-defined boot-beaten path continuing south. Follow it through forest for 0.3 mile and 100 feet of elevation gain to Forest Road Spur 030. Then turn right and walk this lightly driven road 1.6 miles to a 3300-foot gap between Buck Mountain and Mount Turner for an excellent view of Mount Jupiter, The Brothers, Mount Constance, and the Dosewallips River valley.
If you time this hike for when there are still patches of snow on the road, you will more than likely have this viewpoint all to yourself. And any time of year you venture onto the Elbo Creek Trail you will most assuredly encounter far fewer folks than at nearby Mount Walker just to the east across busy US 101. Savor the elbow room on this trail less taken.
Land Agency Contact: Olympic National Forest, Hood Canal Ranger District, Quilcene
Trailhead directions: From Shelton, follow US 101 north for 47 miles and turn left onto Rocky Brook Road (Forest Road 2620), just south of milepost 300 and Mount Walker Road. Then continue west on graveled FR 2620 for 0.2 mile to the trailhead. If coming from the north the turnoff is 5.2 miles from Quilcene. Trailhead facilities: none
CRAIG ROMANO is a prolific and award-winning author, an ardent conservationist, and a NW trails and hiking expert. He hikes, runs marathons, paddles, and bikes and has written for more than two dozen publications including Northwest Travel and Life and Washington Trails ; and for numerous tourism publications and websites. He provides weekly content for Hikeoftheweek.com and is co-host of the Washington State Hiking podcast. He is most frequently out hiking or trail running somewhere, often accompanied by his wife, Heather, and son, Giovanni. Visit Craig online at craigromano.com,
Outdoor Summer MUSIC FESTIVAL
Welcoming:
The Skyline Drive In Opens for its 62nd Season in April
Just south of Shelton, traffic slows as motorists approach Taylor Town. Here you will find the Skyline Drive-In, one of only five remaining drive-in movie theaters in Washington State; one of less than 300 left nationwide in America.
The theatre was opened in May 1964 to great excitement. Just off Hwy 101, the theatre accommodated over 350 cars and featured a full service concession stand including a “surprisingly good” burger. The theater quickly became a key location to take your date or your whole family –depending on the film.
In 2005 Dorthea and Christopher Mayes purchased the Skyline.“We're committed to continuing the distinctly American tradition of double features,” claimed Mayes, “kids in pajamas in the back seat as families watch movies under the stars.”
Apart from being a novel and nostalgic experience, the Skyline Drive-In is a great value with kids 5 and under free. Revenue for the Skyline Drive-In is supported by the Concession stand, so bring your appetite as well as all your friends and family. Pets are also welcome on leashes while outside your vehicle.
The show starts at dusk, rain or shine, with the movie’s soundtrack broadcasts on a radio frequency (89.1 FM). For opening date schedule and movies visit skylineshelton.com.
WDFW Seeks Input on Proposed Shellfish Harvest Changes
Recreational shellfish harvesters in Washington may soon see new rules aimed at protecting clams, mussels, and oysters for the long term.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is proposing changes to its shellfish seasons and limits, citing growing participation and increasing pressure on popular beaches. Officials say the goal is to balance public access with conservation.
“Minimum size and daily limits help to sustain shellfish beds and keep recreational harvesting opportunities open year after year,” said Camille Speck, WDFW’s Puget Sound intertidal bivalve manager. “Recent seasons have seen high turnout — in some cases leading to beach closures. By adjusting season dates, we’re trying to spread out harvest pressure and protect these resources for future generations.”
Among the proposed updates: Some public beaches could see longer or shorter seasons. The minimum size for harvested cockles would increase from 1½ inches to 2½ inches. The daily geoduck limit would drop from three to one. If approved, the changes would go into effect for the 2026 season. Speck said the cockle size increase would allow more shellfish to reach maturity and reproduce before being harvested. Geoducks, she added, are especially sensitive to overharvesting because they grow slowly and take decades to recover.
“Populations in the intertidal zone are particularly vulnerable,” Speck said. “Harvesting can also impact surrounding habitat.”
WDFW is inviting the public to weigh in before any decisions are made. Draft rules are available online, and a virtual public hearing is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, via Zoom.
Comments will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 24 through the agency’s Public Engagement Portal, by email, by voicemail at 855-925-2801 (project code 2788), or by mail to the WDFW Rules Coordinator in Olympia. Agency officials say public participation plays an important role in shaping fair and effective regulations.
The proposed changes would apply only to public tidelands. Private beaches are not included, and treaty tribes retain their legal rights to harvest shellfish under existing agreements. More information, including shellfish identification guides, safety updates, and current regulations, is available on WDFW’s website.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife manages fish and wildlife resources across the state while working to keep recreational and commercial opportunities sustainable.
Legends of the Forest
MASON COUNTY FOREST FESTIVAL
May 28-May 31 | Shelton
A parade, a pageant, and Paul Bunyan – in 1945 Mason County was serious about raising awareness on fire prevention. To help combat the destructive wildfires — while also promoting the importance of forests —the first Festival was born 82 years ago!
The history of Shelton is closely tied with logging operations in the area. In 1853, Michael T. Simmons built the first sawmill in Mason County on Mill Creek just south of Shelton. Around this same time, David Shelton staked a claim on a nearby inlet off Puget Sound. Sol G. Simpson came to the area and founded the Simpson Logging Company in the 1890s. The first Mason County Forest Festival showcased the value of timber, while demonstrating the importance of safeguarding the forests against fires.
The 1953 Forest Festival marked 100 years of logging in Mason County, with a significant sign carved from Douglas fir dedicated at Outlook Park, overlooking Shelton’s Oakland Bay. The sign is still visible today.
People from across Washington came to Shelton for the exciting Forest Pageant, thrilling parade, and contests featuring loggers. On the last day of the festival, 30,000 people—six times Shelton's usual population—came to see the Paul Bunyan Parade.
The Forest Festival will celebrate its 82nd anniversary May 28-31. With over eight decades of courts and thousands of volunteer hours, this festival shows our community's commitment to its heritage. Bring the whole crew and come celebrate everything that makes Mason County mighty — from flannel to fireworks!
For more details and updates, visit masoncountyforestfestival.com.
MAY 28 - MAY 31 | GROVE & FIRST
Carnival: Fun rides, games, fair food
MAY, 30, 6:30 AM | RAILROAD AVE
Goldsborough Creek Run: Different start times and age levels.
MAY 30, 7 - 11 AM | 122 W FRANKLIN
Pancake Breakfast: Support fire department with pre-parade breakfast.
MAY 30, 10:30 AM | RAILROAD AVE
Pet Parade & Paul Bunyan Grand Parade: floats, marching bands, groups & businesses.
MAY 30, 12 PM | LOOP FIELD
Vendors & Logging Show: Food, crafts, vendors and a display of forestry skills, including log rolling, and axe throwing.
MAY 30, 6 PM | OURCU, OLYMPIC AVE
Rockin' The Forest: Live music
MAY 30, 10 PM | SHELTON UPTOWN Fireworks Show
MAY 31, 9-3 PM | OLYMPIC HWY
NJROTC Shelton Car Show Off
From Pies to Pages: How Fjord Oyster Bank Is Becoming Hoodsport’s Living Room
Zachary Hansen | Fjord Oyster Bank
Every week the little town of Hoodsport feels busier—the restaurant is trending that way as well. Michael Ping, the manager of the Fjord Oyster Bank’s oyster bar, often comments on the pace of winter along Hood Canal. “Lets just enjoy this while it lasts, come July and August we will be missing the calm.”
We all expect a wild summer in 2026 and are preparing for the crowds as best we can. Winter is a good time to experiment with new food and methods of cooking, taste different recipes, and spend quality time with our favorite local friends. I used the word ‘customers’ when first writing this, but friends is more appropriate.
Harry, a hoodsport local, comes in weekly for the house-made pies. My mum, Rachel, has perfected flakey, buttery crusts from scratch. The filling is loaded with sweet crisp apples from the Sund’s family orchard, just north along the Canal, no sugar needed! Thank you Harry for the tasting; thank you Cindy for the apples.
The restaurant is becoming a place for community. When tourists stop by, they are greeted by a former Paul Bunyan senior, who better to introduce them to Mason County? Sheriff Spurling hosts a luncheon at the Bank every month, concerned and interested residents crowd in for coffee and coconut prawns and listen to updates and voice their concerns.
This summer, the Oyster Bank will lean into this purpose. We want an old fashioned space when coffee is cheap and the conversation is cheaper—where people have a place to feel belonging and fulfillment. Starting in March, the Fjord Oyster Bank is proud to announce some pretty fun changes.
The former Hood Canal Bank will host a multitude of operations—a café, a welcoming cultural destination for locals and travelers, a boutique bookshop, and of course, a restaurant.
In March we will extend our hours for the bookshop, café, and welcome space daily, from mornings to evenings. The restaurant will operate during and outside these hours. This space will have overlap but carry out different functions. We want to take the communal eating experience beyond just dining hours. A café and bookshop gives us the means to invite readers and shoppers and host them with house-made desserts, breads, sandwiches and coffee and ice cream.
Right now, the sawmill is cutting cedar boards for shelving and purchase orders are being placed for unique classic novels and childhood favorites. Michaels staff pick, The Rainbow Goblins, has been a new topic of discussion of the kitchen crew; Charlotte's love of literature has been embodied in her bookshop selections; Laurie claims to not remember her formative books – but still she provides us with a thoughtful list. Don't except your corner Starbucks or Barnes & Noble – every personal selection is intentional, choosing gifts and flavors for a friend. We are very excited for this new step, check for updates on Facebook or tracingthefjord.com for more details as the summer approaches!
Monsters Are Real. THEY’RE JUST SMALLER THAN YOU THINK
By Thom Robbins
TEXT & PHOTOS
The first thing you lose underwater is certainty. It doesn’t vanish all at once, like a switch snapped off in a hallway. It dims, becoming unreliable. Distance stops behaving the way it should. Sound arrives without direction. Light becomes something you carry instead of something you live inside. In the Hood Canal, especially in the late spring and summer, the green closes around you quickly, turning the world into a narrow corridor where the edge of your beam is the edge of what you can know.
You descend the stairs at Sund Rock Marine Preserve carefully, one hand on the wall, your tank shifting with each step, a reminder of its weight and necessity. At the bottom, the Canal waits, flat and silent, revealing nothing of what it holds. From here, it looks harmless. Just water. You step in, and the cold takes you immediately, wrapping around your legs, your waist, your chest. You pause for a moment before lowering your face into the green. The instant your mask slips beneath the surface, the world changes. Sound dulls. Distance collapses. Certainty loosens.
Your mask frames everything, making it seem both closer and farther away. The first exhale rattles out of you, and the sound is wrong, not loud, but present in your skull, intimate and mechanical. The bottom appears beneath you as scattered stone and rounded cobble sloping away from shore. Your fins move carefully, avoiding the loose pieces that shift when touched. The water is greener here than it looked from the surface, thicker, holding distance in a way that warps scale.
You follow the slope downward, and the wall begins to take shape ahead of you. At first, it is only darkness. Then your light finds it. Rock rises from the bottom in uneven ledges and shallow recesses, its surface crowded with life that reveals itself only when illuminated. Plumose anemones extend from the stone in pale clusters, tentacles streaming in the slow current. Smaller anemones, sponges, and tunicates cling to the rock, giving the wall texture and weight. Fish hover just beyond the reach of your beam, slipping away without urgency when the light settles on them. The wall continues downward past what you can clearly see. Its edges soften, its structure dissolving into water that refuses to give you a fixed boundary.
"The
Canal does not show you everything at once. It makes you wait for it, whether you are ready or not."
There is always a moment when your body remembers the difference between visiting a place and belonging to it. It happens quietly. Your pulse lifts just enough to notice. Your breathing, suddenly sounds too loud in your ears. The regulator inhales with a steady, mechanical calm that reminds you, with every breath, that you are borrowing air. Your eyes tracing the edge of your light, the way you might listen for a footstep behind you on an empty street at night.
THE WOLF EEL
The wolf eel reveals itself reluctantly. The head extends from the den with deliberate patience. The mouth is open slightly, exposing uneven teeth that look too personal, like something found in a drawer you weren’t meant to open. The eyes are dark and steady, reflecting your light without giving anything back. The body disappears into the rock behind it, leaving only a suggestion of length, of weight, of something that could uncoil if it chose to.
You hover there, suspended, trying to make your breathing quieter even though you know that’s not how it works. You don’t want to startle it, but there’s another, more embarrassing reason, too. Part of you doesn’t want to admit, even to yourself, that fear has arrived before evidence. Teeth become a threat. Stillness becomes intent. The den becomes a lair. The animal becomes older than it is, larger than it is, hungrier than it is. It’s not that you believe it will attack. You don’t. It’s that your body reacts as if it might. Your legs stop kicking. You hang in the water like a comma, holding your breath between thoughts.
Water steals the cues you rely on above ground. It flattens distance, warps sound, and distorts scale. Your light does not reveal the whole scene, it isolates pieces of it. An eye. A mouth. A row of teeth. The rest falls away into green. Its mouth opens and closes slowly, rhythmically. Breathing. Water passes through its gills in a cycle as automatic and unremarkable as your own lungs drawing air. The eel is not posturing. It is not warning you. It is not reacting. It is doing what it has done all day and all night and will do long after you leave.
The realization arrives gradually, the way eyes adjust in a dark room. The teeth are still teeth, but they lose their story. The eye is still fixed, but it no longer at you. The eel becomes smaller, not in body, but in meaning. An organism. A resident, not a villain.
You raise your camera carefully, not because you are afraid now, but because you are trying to be respectful. You adjust your buoyancy in tiny shifts, mindful of fin wash, mindful of silt. You frame the shot. In the viewfinder, the eel looks like a monster again. A still image traps an animal in a single expression, and the mind assigns intention the way it assigns faces to clouds. You press the shutter. The strobe fires. For a fraction of a second, the eel is lit in hard white, every tooth and shadow exaggerated. Then the light fades, and the eel is exactly as it was –unmoved.
THE OCTOPUS
You move along the wall, and the water feels larger again, briefly. Then something shifts, and the feeling returns, different but familiar. At first, you see rock. Then you see that it is wrong. The texture and color are too controlled. Your light lingers, and the shape separates itself from the wall in a slow, uncoiling motion, like a thought taking form.
It is tucked into a crack so neatly you could mistake it for part of the landscape if you didn’t know what to look for. The eye gives it away. It fixes on you immediately, the pupil contracting slightly as your light reaches it. The skin around it shifts color
Whether you need a quick fix or work on a big project, at SHOCKING DIFFERENCE we will give you the same attention as if we were doing work on our personal
and texture in an instant, a reflex so fast it doesn’t feel like camouflage; it feels like language. You stop moving. The octopus does not flee. It adjusts. Arms flow outward, each moving with its own purpose. Suckers open and close in subtle waves, tasting the water, tasting the world. The animal is not still like the eel. It is still the way a person is when they are paying attention.
One arm extends toward you. It reaches without urgency, suckers flexing, rotating, testing. It stops just short of your camera, suspended as if waiting for permission. And that is the problem, the quietly unsettling heart of it. Permission. It feels like consideration. It feels like awareness directed at you. This is a different kind of fear. The eel scares you with teeth and stillness, the way a locked door can scare you at night because you imagine what might be behind it.
"The octopus scares you with intelligence, with the sense that something in the water forming an opinion about you."
You hold your position, aware of your breathing and the bubble noise you cannot hide. The octopus withdraws. The arm curls back. The body softens. The color darkens. The eye turns away. Interest fades quickly in animals that have no use for you. The octopus disappears into the rock as if it were never there at all, becoming texture again. You float there for a moment longer, half-expecting it to return. It doesn’t. The Canal does not perform on command.
THE NUDIBRANCH
It is bright in a way that feels impossible down here, a tiny neon shape against the rock. Cerata rise from its back like frozen flames, and its rhinophores point forward, tasting a world you cannot hear. It looks dangerous at first glance. It moves like a slow thought. You lower your camera and wait. Minutes pass. The nudibranch advances a distance you could measure with a thumbnail, and whatever fear its appearance suggests dissolves with time. It is not a predator or a threat, just a small, delicate body moving through its day.
The longer you stay, the more you realize a quiet truth that is both humbling and oddly comforting. Nothing here is acting against you. Everything here is acting for itself. The ocean is not a stage set for human drama. It does not care that you are here. You are not prey to most of these animals. You are not predator either. You are an interruption. Light. Noise. Movement. A temporary change in the current.
You begin your ascent, easing away from the wall as green water reclaims it. The rock fades beside you, its ledges and crevices softening as distance and green water reclaim them. Details disappear first. The anemones fade to pale suggestions, then vanish entirely. The wall's shape dissolves next, until it exists only as a darker presence below. Above you, the surface brightens, a pale ceiling waiting.
Below, the canal closes over itself again. Somewhere down there, the wolf eel remains in its den, breathing in a steady rhythm. The octopus settles back into stone, its shape indistinguishable from the rock around it. The nudibranch continues its slow and deliberate journey across the wall, unaware that you were ever there at all.
Weeks later, you return. This time, you enter at the North Wall, descending along the buoy line that vanishes into the green below. The same cold meets your face, the same mechanical rhythm of breath returning as the world narrows to the reach of your light. Everything is familiar, and that familiarity changes the way your body responds. You don’t have to fight for calm. Calm arrives with you.
The wall emerges, and the first time a shadow holds its position at the edge of your beam, your heart does not spike the way it did before. You recognize it for what it might be and wait.
The wolf eel is there in its den. The mouth is open. The teeth are visible. The eye is fixed. It is the same image that once made your brain go hungry for a story. Now it is just an eel breathing, unbothered by your presence. You hover closer than you did the first time because you understand the rhythm now. You watch the water pass through its gills. You see the slow opening and closing of the jaw. You notice details you missed before, the way the skin folds at the corner of the mouth, the subtle shift of the body deeper in the den. None of it is threatening. All of it is simply life.
You raise your camera without hesitation. The strobe fires. The eel does not flinch. Somewhere inside you, a quiet switch has flipped, the kind you only notice after. Not the world changing, but your interpretation of it.
You move along the wall and find an octopus again. The experience is different now. The eye catches your light, and you feel the old discomfort stir, that instinctive awareness of being seen, but it does not bloom into fear. It becomes fascinating. You hold your position and watch as the skin shifts beneath the light, color moving across its body in slow waves. Rust becomes gray. Gray becomes something closer to the rock itself. When you first saw this, it felt like a disguise, like deception, something meant to hide from you. Now you understand it differently. The color change is not for you. It is not performance. It is communication written in a language of light and muscle. Tiny pigment cells expand and contract beneath the skin, responding instantly to the surface beneath them, to light, to mood, to the quiet internal state of the animal itself. The octopus is not becoming something else. It is revealing what it already is, a body designed to belong exactly where it rests. An arm extends, suckers opening and closing in a slow sequence. The skin beneath your light settles into the wall's texture, indistinguishable from the stone except to the eye, which continues to watch without urgency.
"Nothing about it feels threatening now. Only precise. Only alive in a way that no photograph can fully hold."
The octopus extends an arm toward your camera. The suckers flex. It pauses. Then it withdraws again, uninterested. And you smile behind your regulator, which is a ridiculous thing to do underwater, but you do it anyway. You notice more now. That’s the real change. Not that the canal has become safer, not that the animals have become friendlier, but that your attention is no longer consumed by guessing what might be hidden. Your mind has space to see what is actually there.
Crabs emerge sooner because you move more slowly. Fish hold their position longer because your light doesn’t jitter with nervous scanning. Anemones remain open because you hover without stirring the water around them. Even the green itself feels less like a curtain and more like a medium, something that holds the world the way air holds the world above.
You realize, belatedly, that fear was never the point. Fear was the doorway. It brought you to the edge of attention, made you look harder, made you hold still long enough for the world to reveal itself. But fear cannot be the place you live if you want to see what the Canal is offering. You cannot learn anything when your body is busy preparing for a threat that isn’t coming.
On your way back up, you pause midwater and look down. The wall has faded again into suggestion, a dark smear in green. The place that felt like a haunted house on your first dive now feels like a neighborhood you’ve begun to recognize. Not fully. Not comfortably. The Hood Canal will never be fully knowable, not in the way a trail or a street can be knowable. But it is no longer hostile in your mind, because hostility was never part of the equation.
The Salish Sea does not explain itself. It does not label its shadows. It does not warn you politely before a creature appears at the edge of your beam. It simply exists, and your job, if you want to understand it, is to meet it without filling it up with stories.
You ascend slowly. The surface brightens above, a pale ceiling giving way to open air. The first breath at the surface always feels too big, like your body is trying to make up for time borrowed.
You float there for a moment, looking back toward shore where people move and talk and laugh. The Canal looks ordinary again from above. A sheet of gray-green water under a winter sky. It would be easy to believe there is nothing down there but cold and mud. But you know better.
You know the wall is crowded with anemones, crabs, and hovering fish. You know there is an eye in a crack in the rock that can turn to meet your light. You know there is a mouth in a den, open in a permanent expression that looks like a threat until you learn it is only breath.
"Nothing below was ever waiting for you. It was only ever living its own life in the dark."
The monsters existed only in the space between perception and understanding, built out of uncertainty and imagination, and dismissed by attention. Once you learn what you’re looking at, the monsters shrink. They don’t vanish, not exactly. The Canal will always keep something beyond the edge of your light. But those mysteries stop feeling like threats. They become what they truly are, the honest unknown.
The creatures that frightened you at first remain exactly what they were. Not villains. Not warnings. Not stories meant to scare. Just residents of the Hood Canal, breathing and watching and moving through green water that does not care whether you are brave or afraid. It only asks that you look long enough, without deciding too quickly what you’re seeing.
THOM ROBBINS
"I am endlessly drawn to the underwater world of the Pacific Northwest. After more than thirty years of diving, I’m still happiest when I’m below the surface with a camera in
Yelvik General Store
251 Hjelvicks Rd, Brinnon (360) 796-4720
Why we love them: Hard to find gifts What they offer: One-stop shop offering groceries, hardware, boots, clothing, and live animals.
HAMA HAMA OYSTER FARM
Cove RV Park & Country Store 303075 US-101, Brinnon · (360) 796-4723
Why we love them: Charming store, great location, friendly staff What they offer: Groceries and gift items.
Why we love them: to take home. Selection of vintage sweaters. What they offer: clothing (both new and vintage), hand crafted woodwork, candles, soaps, books.
Spring into a our classes!
Mason County Sportsman’s Association's classes in their indoor range in Shelton are a great way to learn a new skill and increase firearm safety.
Did you know our local KMAS signal reaches as far as Tacoma, Aberdeen, Bremerton, and Centralia? As the “Voice of Mason County,” KMAS also reaches your friends & neighbors from Allyn, Olympia, and Shelton to Belfair & Hoodsport.
Radio is available 24/7 and is accessible to everyone.
Empty Bowls: Creating Community, One Bowl at a Time
Across the world, the Empty Bowls movement brings people together to fight hunger and support local food banks. This spring, Shelton residents are invited to take part in this meaningful and creative experience—combining art, friendship, and compassion for neighbors in need.
Empty Bowls offers a unique opportunity to create, play, and share with friends and family while making a real difference in the community. Participants design and decorate their own ceramic bowls, which they’ll keep as a reminder of the impact they’ve made. Empty Bowls project is a creative effort to fight hunger where participants create ceramic bowls – building them on night one and then glazing them a week later. All supplies are generously provided by the Shelton Arts Commission. The program is open to all ages, family-friendly, and no registration is required. On the third evening, participants gather once more at the Civic Center to pick up their bowls and enjoy soup and bread with a $10 donation.
Together, we can make a difference— one bowl at a time. All proceeds from this event go to The Saint’s Pantry Food Bank. For more information on the Shelton Arts Commission
or Empty Bowls, contact Recreation Coordinator Jordanne Krumpols at 360-432-5106 or jordanne.krumpols@ sheltonwa.gov. Can’t attend every session? No problem—extra bowls will be available at each step, so you can still participate.
2026 EMPTY BOWLS SCHEDULE
March 11, 5–7 PM: Create a Bowl
Kick off the project by shaping and building your ceramic bowl at the Shelton Civic Center.
March 18, 5–7 PM: Glaze Your Bowl
Return to glaze and decorate your bowl, adding your personal artistic touch.
March 25, 5–7 PM: Soup and Bread Night
Hood Canal: Matching The Rhythm of the PNW
Taylor Jacobs, The Glen, Hoodsport
Life is better when we lean into its natural rhythms. Anyone who says otherwise resists what nature tells all of us. Life stretches us, moves us, offers high highs and low lows; dark and light are both inevitable. Yielding to it all can grow your capacity to see the true beauty in life.
The tides move in and out. The seasons change the colors of the forest. The day brings light and dark. A musical rhythm aligns random sounds and voices into a song that connects to your soul. This cadence can be calming.
The Pacific Northwest effortlessly draws you into these natural rhythms as soon as you step foot in its territory. Whether you live here full time, or you just visit occasionally, you know that feeling. Heck, even the orcas that vacation in the Puget Sound seem to swim to a magical rhythm that they poetically sing beneath the surface.
While everyone may have preferred circumstances to exist in, there is no denying that learning to find solace in the present moment can have peaceful effects on our internal lives.
For us in the northwest, that can mean leaning into the rainy six (or eight) months of dreary rain each year. Where is nature asking you to lean in, reflect, and slow down? What would it be like to use the rhythm of the rain to relax your mind? What could it look like to use the rhythm of shorter daylight to explore the world in the dark?
Now I may be biased, but I truly believe the towns along Hood Canal are some of the best places to escape to in all four seasons. So many creative and passionate people are sprinkled around the shores, drawing flavor out of the area like salt to a good dish.
The summer brings adventurous, fast energy, where exploration can look like an Orca breaching or watching motorcycles fly by at over 150 miles per hour. Beautiful music exists across several festivals.
TAYLOR JACOBS is the owner of The Glen Resort in Hoodsport and a hospitality entrepreneur focused on thoughtful property development and exceptional guest experiences. Through his family-owned company, Stoa Lodging, he works to enhance lodging destinations while supporting local communities and regional tourism. Taylor holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and International Business from the University of Washington.
Fall brings out mushroom foraging, creative fall dishes at restaurants and opportunities to try your hand at painting the changing colors. Winter can challenge you to dive below the surface to explore a world few ever truly see. It can also bring soul refreshing retreats to recenter your next year. Spring, my personal favorite, invites you out to hike (just one more mile) to a waterfall that is telling you that winter has passed and summer is coming.
Just as the Hood Canal reveals beautiful mysteries for all who explore it, I wonder what it is welcoming you to discover in the rhythm of this season.
Local History Group Gears Up for America’s 250th Anniversary
In early 2025, a small group of local residents began meeting to discuss plans for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. What started as a simple gathering of history lovers has grown into a community focused on learning, sharing, and celebrating America’s past.
They are focused on our country’s semi-quincentennial which is a landmark historical event worthy of reflection, commemoration, joyful celebration and honors the sacrifices and contributions of all who have come before us in creating this nation.
Dedicated to honoring this historic milestone, the nonpolitical and nonpartisan group welcomes support from anyone who values history and community. With help from local organizations, they continue to expand their outreach.
The group will appear at the Olde Timers Fair in Matlock during the first full weekend of May, participate in the Forest Festival parade, and host a booth at Loop Field. They have also organized a youth flag-making project sponsored by Sierra Pacific.
Organized through the Washington State Historical Society, the America 250 Mason County group invites the public to join them in commemorating this important national anniversary.
For a glimpse of the region’s enduring fascination, stop by Bear in a Box in Allyn, Washington, for striking and imaginative squatch-inspired art.
Squatch Watch
The deep, extensive forests of the Olympic Peninsula have always hidden their secrets well. Like the ancient coelacanth—
rediscovered in a fisherman’s net off Africa in 1938 — or the discovery of the bioluminescent megamouth shark, hooked on a Navy ship’s anchor in 1976, these finds remind us that the natural world still holds mysteries waiting to be revealed.
Before actual specimens were found, stories and rumors about these creatures abounded. But proof was needed to move them from the realm of legend into the empirical world. The term cryptozoology, coined in the 1950s by French-Belgian biologist Bernard Heuvelmans, describes the study of socalled “cryptids”—animals of unexplained form, size, or unexpected occurrence in time or space.
The search for these “hidden animals” has spanned the globe, from Scotland’s Loch Ness Monster and the Yeti of the Himalayas to the Lake Champlain Monster, known as Champ. Closer to home, reports of sea serpents—often called Cadborosaurus— surface in the waters of the Salish Sea while British
Columbia claims Ogopogo in Lake Okanagan. And across North America, no cryptid looms larger than Bigfoot—known locally as Sasquatch. About one-third of all reported sightings occur in the Pacific Northwest.
Washington State leads the nation in sightings of creatures matching the description of Sasquatch. Records kept by the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization (BFRO) show Pierce County at the top, followed closely by Snohomish and Skamania counties. After a series of reported encounters and discoveries of footprints, Skamania County famously passed a law in 1969 forbidding the “willful and wanton slaying” of a Sasquatch.
Violators faced felony charges, a $10,000 fine, and jail time. Though the penalty has since been reduced, the endurance of this legislation suggests that Sasquatch is still considered real enough to protect.
Sasquatch is typically described as a large, upright-walking, hairy, hominid-like creature, often accompanied by a strong, musky odor. Witnesses frequently report eerie vocalizations— whoops, howls, and screams—as well as enormous footprints. Encounters are usually non-aggressive, yet many leave witnesses with a deep sense of fear and unease. There are also reports of broken branches, thrown rocks, and other signs of powerful movement through the forest. Indigenous peoples throughout the Pacific Northwest have long shared oral histories describing Sasquatch-like beings, often portrayed as tricksters or dangerous spirits capable of stealing children or women.
Among them, the Kwakwakaʼwakw of northern Vancouver Island tell stories of Dsonoqua, the Wild Woman of the Woods, who mimics the sound of wind “ooh-ing” through the trees to lure children away. Whether symbolic or rooted in real encounters, these stories reflect generations of close observation and respect for the wilderness.
Around countless campfires, tales of Sasquatch continue to add a shiver to the night. From these stories has grown a new form of travel: cryptotourism
Professionally led expeditions, organized by groups such as the BFRO and the Olympic Project, guide participants into areas with high numbers of reports in search of evidence. On these outings, would-be researchers learn how to cast footprints, record sounds, conduct surveys, and collect uncontaminated hair and fecal samples—bringing a methodical approach to the hunt for mystery.
On the Lookout for Sasquatch
According to David George Gordon, author of The Sasquatch Seeker’s Field Manual (2015), mainstream scientists often lack the funding and time to investigate Sasquatch claims thoroughly. As with citizen-science efforts like Cornell’s Christmas Bird Count, volunteer researchers may be the best hope for gathering meaningful data.
Through organized expeditions and careful reporting, these groups create detailed databases of sightings. This information makes it possible to design a self-guided “cryptotour” of the Olympic Peninsula.
Pack a good camera in case you spot unusual wildlife. Bring a friend or two—multiple witnesses lend credibility. And keep your senses tuned to the forest: the snap of branches, distant calls, or sudden silence can be as telling as any footprint.
Don Trosper and the Stories That Make Up our History
Some of the best conversations start with a simple question. In this case, it was really, how did all of this get started? Tracing The Fjord’s Jeff Slakey recently sat down with Don Trosper, a longtime local historian and author whose latest book, This Can’t Be History… Or Is It?, pulls together 100 short stories from across Southwest Washington. The stories stretch from Thurston and Lewis counties to Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties, and even a few that touch Mason County.
What Don does well is remind you that history isn’t always found in museums.
A lot of it is hiding in plain sight.
“You drive through a town or past a road sign every day and never think twice about it,” Don told me. “But there’s usually a reason it’s there, and usually a pretty good story behind it.”
That curiosity goes back generations for Don. His family arrived in the Tumwater area in 1892, and they never really left. Trosper Road in Tumwater is from his family name. Land passed down from his family is still where he calls home. “People ask if I’ve lived here my whole life,” he said, laughing. “And I say, ‘Not yet.’”
The format of the book fits how Don thinks about history. They’re short stories you can read one at a time, and then usually end up reading a few more.
“You don’t want just names and dates,” he said. “You want stories. Human interest. Something people can connect to.”
That idea shows up again and again. Some stories explain how towns got their names. Others look at how logging, fishing, railroads, and later highways caused communities to grow, or disappear. One moment you’re learning why a town is called Vader. In the next, you’re hearing how a railroad line changed the fate of an entire area.
“A lot of towns followed the work,” Don said. “When the work moved, the town either changed or faded away.”
That’s very similar to history around the Hood Canal. Even though many of Don’s stories happen outside Mason County, the patterns are the same, natural resources, transportation, water, and timing shaping where people settled and why.
(continued on next page)
Washington State Parks Discover Pass FREE Days in 2026
Monday, March 9
Billy Frank Jr.’s birthday
Thursday, March 19
State Parks’ 113th birthday
Wednesday, April 22 Earth Day
Saturday & Sunday, June 6-7 Free Fishing Weekend
Friday, June 19
Juneteenth
Sunday, Aug. 9
Smokey Bear’s birthday
Saturday, Sept. 26
National Public Lands Day
Saturday, Oct. 10
World Mental Health Day
Wednesday, Nov. 11
Veterans Day
Olympic National Park will offer free entrance on eight days in 2026:
February 16: Presidents Day (Washington's Birthday)
May 25: Memorial Day
June 14: Flag Day
July 3–5: Independence Day
August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Service
September 17: Constitution Day
October 27: Theodore Roosevelt's birthday
November 11: Veterans Day
Local Teachers Receive $29,000 in Classroom Grants
Fifty teachers from ten public school districts in Grays Harbor and Mason Counties are celebrating this year after receiving $29,000 in Community Partner Education Grants (CPEG).
To help spread the word, the CPEG committee hosted a fun “Teacher Survival Kit” stuffing party, creating kits filled with helpful goodies and sponsor swag. Each kit included a QR code to make applying for grants quick and easy.
This year’s funded projects cover a wide range of creative and handson learning, from STEM, arts, and band programs to environmental restoration, field trips, construction, poetry cafés, and more.
“Our local business partners are deeply committed to supporting education,” said committee member Shannon Henry. “Together, we’re investing in projects that spark curiosity and help students thrive.”
Now in its 11th year, CPEG has awarded nearly $300,000 to K–12 educators since 2014, thanks to support from eight local business partners.
(continued previous page)
Don’s research comes from years of digging. Libraries, museums, old microfiche files, journals, and first-person accounts. Sometimes people reach out to him with family stories or documents they’ve held onto for years.
“The best stuff is first-person,” he said. “That’s when history really comes alive.”
One chapter even reaches back to the Ice Age, exploring mammoths and early human activity in Southwest Washington.
“We wanted to go way back,” Don said. “Before the towns. Before everything we recognize today.”
Outside the books, Don also leads walking tours around Tumwater Falls Park along the trail below the Brewery from spring through summer, blending local scenery with stories of the people and industries that shaped the area.
For Don, writing all of this down matters.
“As generations move on, stories get lost,” he said. “This is a way to keep them from disappearing.” And once you start learning some, you start realizing how many stories are still out there, sitting quietly along the roads we drive every day.
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
Stottle Winery Tasting Room Hoodsport,
WA on Hwy 101
Open for Tastings in Hoodsport!
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.
HOURS: FRI - SUN, 11 AM - 5 PM
Peninsula Credit Union: Business of the Year, Built on People
Peninsula Credit Union was once again named the Business of the Year by the Shelton-Mason County Chamber of Commerce, last receiving the award in 2014, and continuing its commitment to the community and serving its members with
quality financial services.
During an interview with Tracing The Fjord’s Jeff Slakey, CEO Jim Morrell believes the award demonstrates the team's ability to work together and focus on lasting success.
“Our team has rallied around how we serve the community and how we serve the members. Not only the people that are front-facing, but everybody. Underwriters, collections, IT, marketing, accounting, everyone contributes to the success.”
Peninsula’s people-focused philosophy comes from being a financial cooperative: members who are also owners in the process. Members choose the board, help set the direction, and decide what matters most. This structure encourages Peninsula to focus on helping the com-
munity and supporting families. Their bottom line is to make sure that they’re serving people that are living at or around a household survival budget. This commitment expands across the canal. Peninsula serves Shelton, Belfair, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, and Port Townsend. Morrell says that maintaining consistent service across every county depends on showing empathy. “We’re trying to practice that empathy so that we understand the situation before we can try and help with the next steps.”
In addition to their Chamber award, their Shelton branch assistant manager Charlie Allmendinger, was also a finalist for 2025 Boss of the Year, and she sees the impact every day. Over the last few years, the team has worked hard
to build trust and make services more accessible to the Hispanic community by hiring bilingual staff, using translation tools, and listening to member feedback.
“You can see their face just light up being able to see familiar faces and hear their language,” Allmendinger said. “It goes beyond opening an account. You start having conversations about their kids, their families, where they came from.”
In addition to personalized service, Peninsula puts a lot of effort into financial education. They offer programs in schools, community centers, and libraries, plus free online tools. The aim is to help people feel less anxious about money before they even visit a branch, (continued on next page)
Hood Canal’s Fjord Celebration Returns to Hoodsport on June 13
Despite its name, Hood Canal is not a canal at all. When Captain George Vancouver “discovered” it in 1792, he misidentified what is now recognized as the only true fjord in the lower 48 states. Carved by glaciers and reaching depths of more than 600 feet in some areas, Hood Canal is the nation’s only saltwater-access fjord outside of Alaska.
Each year, this unique distinction is celebrated in Hoodsport through “Fjordin Crossin,” a lively community event honoring both Nordic tradition and local craftsmanship.
Seven years ago, Jan and Chuck Morris, owners of Hardware Distillery, created Fjordin Crossin to mark the annual release of their Hoodsport-distilled aquavit. Inspired by Scandinavian customs of aging spirits at sea, they partnered with local charter operator Lee Geist to carry a barrel of aquavit across the fjord by boat. For the last three years brothers Captains Brian & Chris Lundeen have assumed this role -- annually converting their Union-based sailboat into a Viking ship.
What began as a symbolic crossing has grown into a signature summer festival. Today, the event features a non-motorized paddle challenge hosted by Hood Canal Events. Participants may bring their own watercraft, rent kayaks from Hood Canal Adventures at the beach. This year’s paddle will be timed and includes a Scandinavian knit hat as a participant gift. Registration rates are $35 for adults and $15 for ages
9–17 through May 16, with standard pricing increasing afterward. Children under nine paddle free. Festivities continue on shore with vendors, fresh oysters, artisans, children’s activities, and a parade. The Aquavit Garden serves beach-side cocktails until the rising tide moves celebrations into downtown Hoodsport, where local businesses host additional activities.
To ease congestion, a shuttle bus will operate from Lake Cushman to Hoodsport from 10 AM to 4 PM, stopping at the Cushman maintenance building, the golf course parking lot, and downtown.
The season begins early with the IPA & Aquavit Release Party on May 15 at Hardware Distillery and Potlatch Brewing Co. Guests are encouraged to visit both locations, with early bird tickets available for $35 through May 16.
With paddling, parades, spirits, and Scandinavian flair, Fjordin Crossin offers a one-of-a-kind way to celebrate the Pacific Northwest’s only fjord—and the community that brings it to life each year.
(continued from previous page)
whether they are members or not.
“There are many people that have a tremendous amount of anxiety about walking into a financial institution,” Morrell said. “We try and lower that barrier by meeting people where they are.”
These values are reflected in what their members "wow stories."
Allmendinger shared that the team recently supported a member who was struggling with late payments, higher costs, and family responsibilities. By listening and working with the member, the team helped consolidate their debt and find a way forward.
“He had tears in his eyes,” Allmendinger said. “He told me, ‘This is the magic of credit unions. It’s people helping people.’”
Morrell points out that stories like this happen often. “These things happen every day when we meet somebody where they’re at and try to understand their situation.”
Morrell says Peninsula Credit Union’s job is to be there when life gets tough and to help members find stability during those times.
“We are in the business of being financial first responders,” he said. “That takes trust, and trust only comes from genuine relationships.”
Its steady, people-first approach like these that keeps earning Peninsula Credit Union national attention and community appreciation, working to strengthen the communities it serves.
USA 3,092 WAYS
JOHN DELEVA | story & photos
I visited every county, borough and parish in the USA for three reasons: to win a college bet, to color in all 3,086 spaces on a new wall map and to possibly do something nobody else had every done. When a group of friends splashed their way into San Juan County, Washington with me in the summer of ’95, it capped nine and a half years of road trips covering 1,087,000 miles, but a reporter on the spot delivered a dose of disappointing news: I was the ninth person to do this and needed to add a twist to be one-of-a-kind.
Finishing the Great American County Chase before first of the friends who concocted the idea meant that I had won an all expenses paid trip to heaven (Heavenly Valley, California) while they would all go to Hell, a hamlet in Livingston County, Michigan. But the real prize for winning the bet was the people I met and the places I was fortunate to see along the way. Somehow, I got through this decade-long odyssey virtually unscathed – no accidents, no speeding tickets, nothing of importance lost or stolen, although I do still have some mental scar tissue remaining from an intense stretch of absolutely zero visibility between King Salmon and Sand Point, Alaska when it was just me, the bush pilot and a load of cargo flying blind for twenty plus minutes until the most hardscrabble landing ever.
And then there was getting banned by AVIS for abusing the “unlimited mileage privilege,” a term that still doesn’t make sense.
Despite all the good fortune and the reward of this 3,467-day adventure, I still had that urge to do one thing – no matter how trivial – that none of the other 8,164,293,772 residents of this planet had done. For the next 18 years, I found excuses and jobs that kept me on the road 200+ days a year, but that changed unexpectedly in 2013. We sold our small travel magazine business, relocated half-time to New York and found a small apartment just across the East River from the place I was born and given away for adoption fifty years earlier. Raised by amazing adoptive parents I never wanted to offend by looking, I deferred finding my biological roots until, with their blessing, the time had come to cross the Brooklyn Bridge and find the adoption agency. Soon enough the agency delivered me and envelope that would start the search process but at the time did reveal I was here because a single Italian girl had gone on vacation and met a young man in . . . Puerto Rico.
The planets must have aligned, too, as the travel business I was now working for had partnered with Brand USA to promote the United States around the world, and the territory I was assigned included . . . Puerto Rico.
PUERTO RICO
Jewel of the northeastern Caribbean, claimed by Spain after Columbus’s 1493 voyage then acquired by the US after the Spanish-America war 405 years later. Now I needed to go to Puerto Rico for work as much as I wanted to go for the “genetic connection” and then a third reason hit me: I should go because maybe nobody has ever gone to every county, borough, parish, district and territory – all 3,092 of them. Maybe that’s my trivial niche.
“The friendly and fun local shop with something for everyone!” OPEN DAILY 10:00AM
24230 N US HWY 101 | HOODSPORT 360-877-5252 | CANALSIDEGIFTS.COM
Custom Souvenirs + Apparel & Accessories + Local Artisans
Four hours and 1,600 miles after leaving JFK, I was meeting with the Puerto Rican tourism folks learning about the island’s history, culture and politics. After that, one door led into another and I found myself bar and barrio hopping, diving into the local scene where the conversation was lively and the food and drink were as colorful as the buildings in every direction.
I lived in and loved every moment on this beautiful island, but I didn’t feel a stitch of that genetic connection like I had every single time I stepped foot in Italy. Three years later, that made more sense when I finally met my biological mom and she said, “I made all of that adoption agency stuff up . . . for good reasons I’ll tell you another time . . . and by the way, your 100% Italian.”
AMERICAN SAMOA
When opportunity rang, I swapped tourism territories and returned west full-time. Business and my new travel challenge put the US Pacific territories on my radar. Living on Maui, with a lot of Hawaiian Airlines frequent flier miles and the exotic-sounding Pago Pago just five air hours away, American Samoa called next.
American Samoa is the type of place where going out for lunch meant grabbing a spear gun to go hunt for reef fish. It’s a place where a walk to the beach put us in a line behind a village chief, who cleared the path with his machete. It’s home of the USA’s only south-of-the-equator national park, a tropical paradise where magical ocean blues and steamy jungle greens collide.
This is an island where family first became evident as soon as we left baggage claim. A rowdy crowd filled the waiting area with hand-painted banners, welcoming flowers and huge hugs. Relatives returning from Hawaii were received like celebrities. Minutes later, looking out the window of our local bus, an even more poignant statement about Samoan family bonds became evident: the highway was lined with homes where front yards doubled as graveyards, as we soon learned, to keep the family close. Here, family-owned aiga buses buzz the roads like bees hustling to the hive. Hundreds of old pickups and trucks have been converted into colorful, sputtering discos on wheels. Every bus distinct from
every other, by design, and they are mobile art as much as transportation. They run in all directions, sunrise to sunset, and you can flag ‘em down and toss a buck or two on the dashboard and pretty much go anywhere. I imagined my Maui born-andraised father-in-law would have said American Samoa reminded him of growing up in Hawaii in the 1950’s: pure, natural, ahead of big tourism. It is an organic place, primed for gentle ecotourism growth. In one conversation discussing the art and culture of American Samoa, someone mentioned FESTPAC, the Festival of the Pacific, to be hosted by another US Territory the following year.
HOODSPORT, WA
GUAM
I love arriving at a destination in the middle of the night and falling asleep to visions of my surroundings. Add time and distance to magnify the effect and daylight in Guam did not disappoint. The island that markets itself as The Place Where America’s Day Begins was off to a stupendous start.
Out the window of my modest hotel, the powder-blue 82-degree water lapped atop a coral reef, and soon enough it felt as good as it looked. Darting fish and abundant coral looked great through my diving mask while deeper, shipwreck scuba dives beckoned. Guam is much closer to Japan than any place in the US, and truly an island as strategic as it is beautiful.
A wall that doubled as a map inside the Museum of the Pacific showed how Guam’s strategic position had always served as a blessing and a curse. I soon understood why the Spanish planted themselves here for three centuries; why the Ameri-
cans took it as spoils after war with Spain and why the Japanese invaded it hours after they bombed Pearl Harbor.
At an island pig roast, I learned more about the Chamorro people who arrived from Southeast Asia several millennia ago and despite centuries of heartbreak, occupation and colonization, endured it all and today make up more than onethird of Guam’s population. I experience their art, song and dance during FESTPAC, where islanders from Guam, French Polynesia, New Zealand, the Cook Islands and more, arrived in fanciful and colorful force and celebrated life late into each night.
The Mariana Islands were in attendance, too, another US Territory just a 20-minute flight away, but there was no time left on this trip, and besides, I wanted to bring my wife and stay longer.
COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS
The Guinness Book of World Records calls Saipan the most equable climate in the world, so seeing 83 high 80 low as the forecast every single day of our visit confirmed the temperature in the largest of the 13 Northern Mariana Islands was truly as consistent and steady as they say.
The people who settled here made the longest uninterrupted ocean-crossing voyage in human history and despite its sparse population and total area smaller than the city of San Francisco, these islands have had a major role in world history. Significant WW II sites and memorials called, but we used the first few days to catch-up on sleep, find secluded shores and see what was under those sparkling seas.
We dove in the famous Blue Grotto of Saipan, a collapsed cave filled with crystal-seawater and 100-foot visibility. Harmless reef sharks, barracuda, sea turtles and an array of colorful fish visit the cave, but so do a lot of humans so we enjoyed it for an hour before sugar-sand stretches of shore called again. Now someone promoting tourism to the US might be disturbed that this territories beaches had no tourists, but on that day, at that moment, work was tucked away and being tourists was all we wanted.
Saipan’s War Memorials were as powerful as any we’ve seen in the US, or Europe. They told stories of unfathomable fights, and we were reminded of what so many sacrificed to give us the life we get to live today. Five miles south of Saipan – the Japanese used Tinian as a staging area to invade Guam the same day they attacked Pearl Harbor. Three years later, the US would use an amphibious assault to take Tinian back and soon use its airfield to send the Enola Gay, with its five-ton atomic payload, to Hiroshima to ultimately end WWII in the Pacific.
US VIRGIN ISLANDS
One dot remains uncolored on my map. One spot remains untread by my shoes, boots or slippuhs – the US Virgin Islands. On May 12th, we’re flying into British Virgin Islands but haven’t figured out how to cross the invisible line that separates the two. Over the years I have swam, ran, kayaked, canoed, ferried, biked, hiked and crossed into new counties and territories by car, train and small plane, but the plan for #3092 hasn’t been set yet.
And then, I’m so often asked, what’s next –every country? Nope. I vowed after finishing the counties in 1995 to change the pace, to just keep going and going and going as long as possible, but instead of in overdrive, drop to lower gears. I made a deal with myself to see just one new country a year, and well, at age 64, I’ve been to 63, so unless I live to 195 seeing them all is not an option. I am, however, one behind now, so it’s time to stop writing and start planning where to go after the Virgin Islands.
ABOUT JOHN DELEVA
If you live in Union, WA, chances are you’ve met John. Pizza guru, cannoli lover, and passionate community advocate, John is the driving force behind the popular Hood Canalé and a familiar face around town. Marked by his energy and genuine spirit, he brings people together through his love for good food and strong local connections. Beyond his work in Union, John is also a Global Marketing Executive for the U.S., a role that has taken him around the world and deepened his appreciation for diverse cultures. These experiences enrich his local efforts and reflect his commitment to celebrating both the Hood Canal area and the wider world.
Finish line photo in Friday Harbor, San Juan County, WA, 08/25/95
Protecting Public Health Without Crushing Small Farms
Days come and go faster than I can keep up with, the sun sets early and the projects and responsibilities pile and are forgotten and are then remembered but nonetheless neglected.
On the shellfish farm, maintenance is nonstop. The docks and boats are pressure washed, the damp darkness coats their surfaces with a slick slimy moss. Piles of oyster bags are excavated from last summer’s blackberry attack, the bags once consumed by barnacles must now be rebuilt and cleaned and prepared for the next cohort of oyster seed. The runoff ditches on the beach that flood during the rainy low tides are tamed and managed with bags of shell—if the intertidal creeks are left unattended for a month they will dam with silt and pebbles and washout a healthy bed of Manila clams. Our alarms blare in the middle of the night this time of year, the winter tides have no consideration for our schedules. It can be three in the morning and 27 degrees outside and pouring down rain—thank goodness for hot coffee!
We get dressed, find a charged headlamp, pull on cold, stiff gumboots and layer on sweaters and rain gear. Why can’t I ever find a left and a right glove? Then we spend the next three hours picking oysters or rafting harvest bags or trenching creeks or digging clams. It is horrible in the rain and peaceful under the stars.
Unfortunately, amidst life’s flurry and the chaos of working a business in aquaculture, other people are at work. They delegate and oversee with laminated lanyards and environmentally friendly electric cars.
I wonder if they spend much time in the environment, or just in meetings regarding the lives of other people? I know the latter is true, as these individuals are immensely successful in creating the things that can only come from office buildings. Productions like rulings and regulations and fees and penalties that are so out of touch with reality they kill the very people they are supposed to protect.
As of February 1st, the Department of Health has ruled to increase the annual licensing fees for Washington’s shellfish growers 233%-789% according to the Pacific Coast Shellfish Growers Association (PSCGA). An increase has not occurred since 2007, but the Department is pushing for a total cost recovery model under RCW 43.70.250.
This will reduce funds drawn from the general fund, and shellfish growers will independently sustain the cost of the public good services provided. This includes health inspections and licensing on farms; biotoxin, harmful algal bloom, and virus/bacteria oversight and testing; export certificates; and other department overhead. The ruling would increase the licensing costs of family’s farm costs nearly 500%. Note, the ruling’s changes are not proportionate when considering cost increase and the production scale of a harvest area. While all categories of beaches and harvest sites are drastically affected by the increase, a smaller operation with less than a few acres of beach could have the same percentage increase (and cost) as a much larger, more productive collection of harvest sites.
Zachary Hansen, South Sound Mariculture
A one acre farm could pay as much as a twenty acre farm. This ruling cuts everyone deep, but it will have a significantly more noticeable impact on local businesses. Small farms represent 31% of the industry (Greene).
A fee increase for growers has not taken effect since 2007, and that along suggests that some bump in revenue is necessary. No, I can not think of anything costing less today than 20 years ago. PCSGA has backed WA Senate Bill 6318—proposed by Senator Chapman—exempting the industry from cost recovery (RCW 43.70.250) and increasing fees based on inflation rates from 2007. The new rate based on inflation is 44-49% higher than current rates. I support this bill.
The Department of Health is an essential part of Washington’s shellfish industry. Protecting the consumer protects the business—who would eat raw oysters in the summer if they knew they would probably get sick? One bad actor can ruin the reputation of a growing area’s safety, and the DOH proactively eliminates those events through the implementation of safety protocols like HACCP plans (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points), harvest limits based on temperature and rainfall, water safety closures, and overall harvest practices and routines.
BLESSING
FLEET
Good harvesting practices can produce safe, healthy shellfish while the same shellfish abused in shipment or processing can cause illness. Simple attention and awareness to the science and biology of these bivalves can both save the lives and the way of life and work.
This is when a ruling authority for public health can positively impact our society. However, good intentions can have unintended consequences, and common sense practices can devolve: the new ruling proposed to take effect this February is an example.
Washington’s shellfish growers understand the importance of public health and environmental stewardship—we depend on it as much as our customers do. But regulations work best when they reflect the realities of life on the water and the limits of small, family-run farms.
Thoughtful, balanced policies can protect consumers without pushing local producers out of business. If we want to preserve both safe seafood and the working waterfronts that sustain our communities, we must ensure that the cost of regulation do not outweigh the value of those who carry it.
ART WALK 2026
Save the Date: Shelton Art Walk Returns July 25
Downtown Shelton will come alive with creativity during the Shelton Art Walk 2025. Visitors can expect a dynamic mix of artist showcases in local businesses, an outdoor artist and maker market, music and performance, and interactive art experiences.
Organized by the Shelton Creative District and the Downtown Shelton Association, the Art Walk celebrates the region’s vibrant creative community and growing arts district.
"We’re building something beautiful in downtown Shelton. This event is about celebrating the artists and makers who are revitalizing our community, one creative act at a time.”
-Isa Radojcic, event organizer and founder of Marmo Caffè & Gallery
“As we come into our third year of this event, I’m reminded of the comments we received at our first and second art walk. Comments like 'I feel seen here' and 'thank you for creating an event like this in Shelton' It’s a reminder that the arts are always important, both to be created, fueling the artists, and to be viewed and experienced, fueling the patrons and audience. I’m so proud to be part of this event and this movement."
-Amy Cooper, event organizer and owner of Cooper Studios
Applications will be open soon for artists, vendors, and performers. For details and to apply, visit www.sheltonartwalk.com.
Painting by Elizabeth Reutlinger
Where Music Meets Community: Great Bend Center for Music
In Mason County, the Great Bend Center for Music has become one of those organizations people recognize by their local visibility, but they might not realize how far its work travels. Named the 2025 Nonprofit of the Year by the Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce, Great Bend has grown from a local arts group into a community-centered organization with a national and international reach.
At the heart of their growth is an approach to music that goes beyond just performance. During an interview with Tracing the Fjord, Executive Director Matthew Melendez described Great Bend as a tool for connecting, learning, and improving lives.
One example is the early learning music program, the Sound Scholars. Originally designed to serve children who lacked access to early education, the program now reaches hundreds of two- and three-year-olds across nearly every U.S. state and more than a dozen countries. Launched online during the pandemic, it remains virtual for now, meeting five days a week for intensive and focused, conservatory-style sessions. Students develop early sight-reading skills, ear training, and an understanding of musical structure, with parents and educators noticing accelerated learning and engagement.
Locally, Great Bend is working to bring that original vision full circle by finding a space for in-person classes. The goal is to strengthen kindergarten readiness while keeping access open for families across Mason County.
Community connection is the center of Great Bend with newer projects like the Lip Sync Battle fundraiser. Designed as an alternative to traditional nonprofit galas, the event brings together teams from local nonprofits to perform, fundraise, and share a laugh. It’s fun, accessible, and collaborative, and it spreads the spotlight to the participating organizations.
Great Bend also keeps things social with beer choirs, root beer choirs, and pop-up performances at breweries, churches, and community spaces, including the Festival of the Firs.
These events introduce people to the benefits of making music. According to Melendez, research has shown group singing boosts bonding hormones, lowers stress, and can improve immune response. Those effects often last for days even after a single rehearsal.
On the performance side, Great Bend has returned to a full concert season for the first time since the pandemic. In April, their program Yankee Romantics highlights American composers working at the turn of the 20th century as the country began to define its own classical music tradition. Often associated with the “Second Boston School,” these composers were influenced by European Romanticism while developing a distinctly American voice. The concert features George Whitefield Chadwick’s String Quartet No. 4 alongside three works by Amy Beach, including her Three Browning Songs, String Quartet, and Piano Quintet. Together, the pieces offer a look at how American concert music was evolving during this period.
The Great Bend 2025–26 season concludes with I Was a Stranger, a program that examines themes of mercy, loss, and welcome through contemporary choral works. The program concludes with John Muehleisen’s Borders, a cantata commissioned by Great Bend for its 2019 Carnegie Hall debut.
Great Bend has also partnered with the Shelton School District to launch a CTE pathway in music and sound production at Oakland Bay Junior High where students are gaining hands-on experience with recording, audio editing, and production skills they can use in local businesses and creative work.
From early childhood classrooms to international success, Great Bend Center for Music continues to prove that big ideas don’t need big cities. As Melendez put it, their goal is simple: to make Mason County known as a small place with big music.
America 250 Mason County Launches “Out of Many – One” Flag-Making Project
America 250 Mason County, Washington, is proud to introduce a new community project, “Out of Many – One,” celebrating the unity, diversity, and shared history
The phrase E Pluribus Unum—“Out of many, one”—appears on the Great Seal of the United States and every U.S. coin. It reflects America’s journey from many colonies to one nation, from many cultures to a shared identity, and from countless individual stories to the common pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness. In that spirit, America 250 Mason County is partnering with Sierra Pacific Industries to launch “Flags of Our Founding Fathers,” a creative project that invites community groups to build and display handcrafted colonial-era flags.
This partnership celebrates Mason County’s roots in the timber industry and Sierra Pacific’s commitment to responsible forest management, regeneration, and sustainable harvesting. Participating groups will receive wood kits to create historical flags that will be featured in the Forest Festival Parade and judged at a post-parade The kits will be distributed in early March and the completed projects are due back May 27/28. The completed projects will be returned after the forest festival event at Loop Field in Shelton on May 30.
Community members and organizations are encouraged to participate. For information or to get involved, please contact Will Harris at WHarris.Allyn@gmail.com.
Historic Lodging at Fort Worden Reopens for 2026 Season
Recently WA State Parks announced that lodging in several historic buildings at Fort Worden Historical State Park will reopen, running from April 1 -Oct. 31. Reservations are now open.
Guests can book accommodations online or by calling the State Parks reservation center at (888) 226-7688. Fort Worden, along with Fort Flagler and Fort Casey, formed the “Triangle of Fire,” a coastal defense network built to protect Puget Sound in the early 1900s. Construction of Fort Worden’s barracks and officers’ quarters was completed in March 1904, and later that year the fort became headquarters for the Harbor Defense of Puget Sound.
Available accommodations include historic officers’ and non-commissioned officers’ quarters, such as commander and colonel duplexes, an admiral’s five-bedroom residence, and a sergeant’s home. Smaller options include Alexander’s Castle — the park’s oldest preserved building — and Bliss Vista, both popular honeymoon suites.
OCTOBER 3-4 2026
In 2013, Washington State Parks issued a 50-year lease to the Fort Worden Public Development Authority to manage the 90-acre upper campus. Under a concession agreement, Fort Worden Hospitality was created in 2022 to oversee lodging and food services. After experiencing financial difficulties, Fort Worden Hospitality ceased operations in January 2025. State Parks terminated the PDA’s lease the following month. Since then, campgrounds have remained open, but roofed accommodations have been closed to the public. More information about Fort Worden’s history and current planning efforts is available through Washington State Parks.
Situated between the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains in Mason County, is Hood Canal. A place filled with world-class activities, wild-caught fare, lively events, and plenty of places to hide away from it all when you just want the world to yourself.
Hood Canal is Washington’s wild side. And it’s here for you, when you’re ready to discover yours. #WILDSIDEWA
KAYAKING
Whether you seek tide-ripped saltwater passages, Challenging whitewater, or lakes big and small, Hood Canal is a kayaker, canoer, or paddleboarder’s ideal destination.
A rich paddling community supports any adventurer’s vision; rental packages and lesson opportunities for the budding kayaker or paddleboarder are not in short supply.
Get out on the water and enjoy a fresh perspective of the canal with colossal peaks towering overhead.
EXPERIENCE THE WILD SIDE OF WASHINGTON
Like a giant fish hook weaving beneath the Olympics with a web of inlets, Hood Canal is poised to catch your Imagination and reel in memories for years to come. This majestic saltwater fjord hosts unparalleled shellfish, shrimp, crab, and salmon and is renown as a diving mecca with its glacial formation causing underwater biomes that appear nowhere else. Venture away from the canal to Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest for hiking and Thrilling vistas. Choose from hundreds of easy access freshwater lakes or revel in waterfall views including the Iconic High Steel Bridge. Ablaze with wildflowers in the spring, hidden swimming holes in the summer, a chance To see spawning salmon in the fall, and snow-capped peaks in the winter, there is never an inopportune Time to visit Hood Canal.
CLEAR YOUR MIND AND CHASE WATERFALLS
Hamma Hamma & Rocky Brook are just two of the many falls on Hood Canal waiting to be explored. Want to plan a waterfall getaway? Visit waterfalltrail.org for 25 unique and special places to visit.
HIGH STEEL BRIDGE
Soaring 420' above the Skokomish River, the High Steel Bridge (1929), is the highest steel truss arch bridge in Washington. You won’t even need to leave the car for this breathtaking view. Follow Skokomish Valley Rd 11 miles from Hwy 101 to reach the bridge.
MOTORSPORTS
The Ridge Motorsports Park racing course near Shelton includes a fantastic road course that's geared towards club racers and competitors. Head to the DNR forests for some unmatched off-road trail rides.
TRAILS & WALKS
World-class hiking trails lace the Olympic Mountain wilderness, leading from mountain stream beds through old growth forest to high-altitude ridge lines with breathtaking views of Hood Canal and beyond.
TASTE YOUR WAY AROUND THE CANAL AND SOUND
Do a farm-to-table dining loop experiencing some Northwest flavors – including Hama Hama, Chelsea, Taylor, Fjor Oyster Bank, Hardware Distillery, Stottle Winery, Hood Canal Winery, and, don't miss Olympic Mountain Ice Cream.
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.
PICK A PEAK
From easy day hikes with the family to overnights or “experience needed” excursions – you don’t
Have to go far for spectacular memories!
RIDE THE RAILS
Experience nature and history pedaling the rails on a quadricycle excursion. vancecreekrailriders.com
FISHING
From open water trolling on the sound to throwing dry flies on small lowland lakes, there are plenty of fishing opportunities in the area.
Seek colossal coho in the fall and hungry trout in the spring to see why every season is fishing season in Hood Canal.
BIKING
Don the helmet and clip into your pedals, for there is no shortage of road or trail from which to experience the beauty and thrill of this landscape
PHOTO: TOBY TAHJA-SYRETT
Dive-in Hood Canal lodging, sales, air, training, rentals, and charters available near renowned destinations like SUND ROCK PRESERVE and OCTOPUS HOLE. yssdive.com
SHELTON CELEBRATING A RICH TIMBER HISTORY
SHELTON is the westernmost city on Puget Sound. Featuring a bustling heritage core, its landscape is marked by colossal forests which led to a title of “Christmas Tree Capital of the World.”
Dubbed CHRISTMASTOWN, USA, since 1962, Shelton successfully won the Guinness World Record for Most Lit Christmas Trees in 2019.
SHELTON AREA LODGING
82ND FOREST FESTIVAL
MAY 28 – MAY 31
This event has celebrated the rich timber history in Mason County since 1945 with a parade, carnival, logging
Learn more by visiting explorehoodcanal.com/events.
LakeCushman
POTLATCH STATE PARK
Longest stretch of PUBLIC BEACH in Mason County with shellfish, kayaking, and Hood Canal water access.
DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED
HUNTER FARMS
Farm Market, seasonal events; Visitor Center
SHELTON VISITOR CENTER
TO GO: Red Caboose on Railroad Avenue Information, handouts, and maps
ISABELLA LAKE TRAILS
EASY 2.5 mile loop, rolling meadows
TO GO: Hwy 101 exit at SR#3 to Golden Pheasant Rd, right on Delight Park Rd. DISCOVER PASS
TAYLOR SHELLFISH STORE
Fresh seafood, tours available; open to public. Hwy 101 to Taylor Towne Exit.
SQUAXIN ISLAND TRIBE MUSEUM
Stories, photos, art, artifacts dating back over 500 years. TO GO: Hwy 101 to Kamilche exit , follow signs. ADMISSION CHARGE
SCHAFER STATE PARK TRAIL
Trails, interpretive center, swimming, fishing. TO GO: 12 miles north of Elma on the East Fork of the Satsop River. The park is also accessible via the Brady exit from Hwy 12.
DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED
ALLYN
Waterfront park features gazebo and lawns, play area, and beach access. NO FEE/PASS
HARSTINE ISLAND TRAIL
300 acres to explore EASY 1.5 mile, beach DISCOVER PASS
WALKER PARK Beach access, playground, restrooms, picnic shelter, kayak access. NO FEE/PASS
HOPE ISLAND STATE PARK
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
THE KENNEDY CREEK SALMON TRAIL
Chum salmon are on view as they make their way up river
TOPOGRAPHY: flat, viewing platforms, interpretive signs TO GO: Hwy 101, Old Olympic Hwy; weekends, seasonally. NO FEE/ PASS
106 acre park reachable only by water. Old-growth forests, saltwater marshes, fruit trees, beaches, historical buildings, friendly deer. Destination for kayakers and boaters!
TO GO: access by boat, mooring available, beach landing, boats and kayaks can launch at Arcadia Point (0.5 miles). CAMPING FEES
STAIRCASE | OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK
Currently closed for fire damage. Call (360) 565-3131 NATIONAL PARK PASS TO GO: HWY 101 to SR#119, follow FS#24 to Staircase Entrance.
RAPIDS LOOP: EASY family friendly 2 mile trail through old growth forest to a bridge over the North Fork Skokomish River; only 200-foot elevation gain. BIG CEDAR, a 0.6 mile spur trail, leads to a fallen cedar while a 0.5 mile section leads to a river viewpoint.
FOUR STREAM: EASY 1.2 mile to Beaver Flat, swampy section of alder/cedar forest. Elevation loss 100 ft.
WAGONWHEEL LAKE: MODERATE TO DIFFICULT climbing 2.9 miles (elevation gain of 3,365 ft).
Well maintained popular trail leads to a small lake
MODERATE TO DIFFICULT 3 mile climb,switchbacks TO GO: Hwy 101 at Hamma Hamma Recreation Area
UPPER LENA LAKE TRAIL
Steep with unstable bed; camping.
MODERATE TO DIFFICULT 4.3 mile climb
TOPOGRAPHY: 3,800 foot gain to sub-alpine lake
TO GO: Same as Lower Lena Lake Trail above.
WILDERNESS PERMIT FOR CAMPING
NW FOREST PASS FOR PARKING
BIG CREEK
Great pack-in picnic destination with pools and footbridges. MODERATE 4 miles
TO GO: Trailhead at FS#24 and SR#119 junction. NW FOREST PASS
HAMA HAMA STORE
Oyster Saloon, store and fresh seafood market. hamahama.com
EAGLE CREEK
Beach access & parking across from Eagle Creek Saloon. NO FEE/PASS
HAMMA HAMMA
LIVING LEGACY TRAIL
Spectacular views of the Mt. Skokomish and the Brothers ranges; interpretive signage. Trail passes Hamma Hamma Cabin built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (1930s). EASY TO MODERATE 1.5 mile loop.
TOPOGRAPHY: First 0.25 mile is barrier free along the river; ascends bluff to creek. TO GO: Hwy 101 to FS#25, 5.5 miles.
WILDERNESS PERMIT REQUIRED FOR CAMPING
DEWATTO BAY Beach with dramatic view of the Olympics; excellent photography destination. Lots of ripe berries in late summer.
TO GO: Belfair-Tahuya Rd to Dewatto Rd, 4 miles.
SERVICES AT PORT OF DEWATTO CAMPGROUND
TAHUYA STATE FOREST
23,100 acre forest provides open spaces for sightseeing, camping, nature study, fishing, hiking,horse, ATV, ORV, and biking. A “working forest” trail may be closed due to forest management activities.
TOPOGRAPHY deep woods
TO GO: Hwy 300/Belfair
Tahuya Rd, 1.1 mile DISCOVER PASS
HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER
TO GO: Located just off Hwy 101 in Hoodsport – information, handouts, maps PASSES FOR PURCHASE
MENARD’S LANDING
Expansive beach with panoramic views of Olympics. Picnic tables. NO FEE/PASS
DALBY WATERWHEEL TO GO: SR#106
VISITOR CENTER/ BELFAIR LICENSING
TO GO: On Hwy 3 in Belfair PASSES FOR PURCHASE Park/ vehicle/vessel/fishing/hunting northmasonchamber.com
HIKING & BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING
Clamber up the rugged trails, tiptoe through the quiet old growth forest, or careen through the pristine meadows of Olympic National Forest & National Park. Shoulder your pack and experience the sights and sounds of the vast wilderness home to some of the most beautiful flora & fauna in the world. Ablaze with wildflowers in the spring, cool hidden swimming holes in the summer, a chance to see spawning salmon in the fall, and snow capped peaks in the winter, there is never an inopportune time to hike Hood Canal.
ITINERARY 3: HOODSPORT & NORTH HOOD CANAL
HUG THE CURVES
As Hwy 101 navigates the bays of HOOD CANAL, imagine relaxing dockside of a beachside cabin, watching the seals roll off the rocks
CANAL
SPIRIT
HOODSPORT WINERY, STOTTLE WINERY, and HARDWARE DISTILLERY offer tastings amongst shopping, dining and the famous Olympic Mountain Ice Cream.
FORAGE DINNER
Come prepared with buckets and boots. Check regs at wdfw.wa.gov before digging – or stop by HAMA HAMA STORE & OYSTER SALOON for freshly prepared seafood.
DIVE DEEPER
Giant octopus, wolf eels and swarms of ancient rock cod add to the wonder of this special place. AIR, GEAR & SCUBA LESSONS, RENTALS & CHARTERS available.
WEST HOOD CANAL LODGING
Alice’s Little Beach House | 112 N Allie Ahl Ln, Lilliwaup | (360) 877-9226 | aliceslittlebeachhouse.com
The Glen Motel (Glen Ayr) | 25381 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | (360) 877-9522 | glenayr.com
Alderbrook Resort & Spa | 10 E Alderbrook Drive, Union | (360) 898-2200 | alderbrookresort.com
Blue Heron Resort Condos | 6520 E SR106, Union | (360) 614-3191 | attheblue.com
Cottages at Hood Canalé | 6871 E SR 106, Union | (360) 710-7452| booking.hoodcanale.com
Hood Canal Events Accommodations | curated short term rentals | hoodcanalevents.com
Hood Canal Resort Properties | 8761 E SR 106, Union | (360) 842-9779 | hoodcanalresort.com
Robin Hood Village Resort | 6780 E State Route 106, Union | 898-2163 | robinhoodvillageresort.com
The largest chainsaw carving outlet, BEAR IN A is a great place to explore this unique art. They also teach chainsaw carving.
GRAPE VIEWS
Waterfront Grapeview is the location of first winery and vineyards of the Pacific Northwest.
BEACH WALK
The area features quaint shops, a variety of restaurants, and beach parks.
There are plenty of great public beaches to explore and launch points for your kayaks.
ALLYN & GRAPEVIEW enjoy gorgeous views of the protected harbor waters of Case Inlet. The area features quaint shops, waterfront lodging, restaurants, and beach parks.
Annually, the Grapeview area hosts the Water and Art Festival, a day-long event featuring entertainment and juried artists.
ITINERARY 5: BELFAIR AREA
TAKE A WALK ON BOARDWALK
Hood Canal’s wild 139 acre THELER WETLANDS hosts two miles of trails. 1,700+ feet of floating boardwalk, native plants, and interpretive kiosks to experience wetland wildlife. olympicbirdtrail.org
SALMON STRONG
THE SALMON CENTER provides education and recreation through a series of collaborative activities at their certified organic farm. They also host seasonal events. pnwsalmoncenter.org
VISITOR INFORMATION & RESOURCES
HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER
150 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport, WA (360) 877-2021 | (800) 576-2021
BELFAIR VISITOR CENTER
30 NE Romance Hill Rd, Belfair, WA (360) 275-4267 | northmasonchamber.com
UNION VISITOR INFORMATION
Located at Hunter Farms, E 1921 SR 106, Union, WA
SHELTON CHAMBER
VISITOR CENTER
215 W. Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA | (360) 426-2021
Open 8 AM - 5 PM | Monday through Friday
MASON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
427 W. Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA
11 AM - 4 PM | Tuesday through Saturday
TAKE TO THE TRAILS
23,100 acre TAHUYA STATE FOREST for camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, ATV, ORV, and mountain biking. dnr.wa.gov
From ferries in Seattle to trailheads in Hood Canal, Mason Transit offers free rides – masontransit.org
OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK nps.gov
Our Local Bivalves
Get to know a few species
NATIVE LITTLENECK CLAM
Up to 3.5” with rounded shell displaying concentric rings and radiating ridge lines, cream, gray, brown, or mottled. White inside shell; found at 6-10” deep in gravel, mud, mid-tide level.
MANILA LITTLENECK CLAM (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.
BUTTER CLAM
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.
COCKLE CLAM
Up to 5” with round shell; prominent evenly-spaced radiating ridges fanning from hinge; mottled, light brown color; found at 1-2” in sand, mud in intertidal or subtidal zone.
PACIFIC OYSTERS (NOT NATIVE)
Up to 12”, white/gray oblong shell with irregular, wavy edges; found in intertidal zone; tumbled (farmed) Pacifics have cupped shape with fragile shells
OLYMPIA OYSTER
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.
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.
GEODUCK
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).
MASON COUNTY'S BEACH shellfish
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.
Expansive
LILLIWAUP STATE PARK
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.
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.
POTLATCH BEACH PARK
Longest stretch of public beach, popular for swimming, kayaking, and picnics. Camping & restrooms.
TAYLOR SHELLFISH
130 SE Lynch Rd Shelton (360) 432-3300
Taylor’s product line includes worldwide export of geoduck, clams, mussels and oysters. Headquartered in Kamilche, retail store is open daily. taylorshellfish.com
WALKER PARK
Beach access, playground, restrooms, picnic shelter and basketball court. Olympic Hwy to Arcadia Rd, from Arcadia Rd take Left on Walker Park Rd, Park is on right. No shellfish harvest. No passes required.
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.
EAGLE CREEK
BEACH & map
HAMA HAMA OYSTER SALOON
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
DEWATTO BAY
CREEK when tide is out, obey Excellent oyster beach. swimming in summer. Eagle Creek Saloon.
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.
BELFAIR STATE PARK
Nice beaches for walking and exploring with summer water temperatures surprisingly warm. Restrooms, camping and picnic facilities.
CHECK. CHILL. COOK.
CHECK: Health closures and advisories: doh.wa.gov/shellfishsafety Harvesting closures: wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfishing-regulation Signs on the beach: Follow posted warnings and respect private property.
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.
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.
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.
ALLYN Gazebo, garden, play area, pier, restrooms and beach access with boat launch.
TWANOH STATE PARK
Excellent camping, swimming, kayaking, picnic sites, and shellfish harvesting.
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.
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! DNR 24/GRAPEVIEW, DNR beach clams and oysters open all year. Access by boat only.
HOPE ISLAND
STATE PARK
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.
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
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.
ALLYN DAYS
JULY | Allyn, WA
Enjoy vendors, wine and beer garden, and live music allyntown.com
Local Seafood
Here are a few locations that serve Hood Canal & South Puget Sound seafood on their menus.
Bistro at Lakeland Village
470 E Country Club Dr, Allyn (360) 277-4137
Boat House Restaurant 18340 E WA 3, Allyn (360) 275-2954
The Fjord Oyster Bank 24341 US-101, Hoodsport (360) 877-2102
Restaurant at Alderbrook 10 E Alderbrook Dr, Union (360) 898-2200
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
Quilcene Blessing of the Fleet to Celebrate Maritime
Heritage, April 25
On Saturday, April 25, 2026, the waters of Quilcene Bay will come alive with tradition, music, and community spirit as the Quilcene Harbor Yacht Club hosts the Quilcene Blessing of the Fleet at Herb Beck Marina. Held during Earth Day Week, this free, family-friendly event will honor the town’s deep maritime roots and celebrate the natural beauty of Hood Canal.
The Blessing of the Fleet is a time-honored maritime tradition that brings together boaters, fishermen, environmental stewards, tribal partners, and community members to offer gratitude for the waters and seek safe passage in the year ahead. Quilcene’s event reflects both its historic ties to the sea and its commitment to preserving the bay for future generations.
From 10:00 – 2:00 PM, visitors will enjoy a full day of activities designed to educate, entertain, and inspire. The centerpiece of the celebration is an ecumenical blessing ceremony and parade of vessels, led by traditional maritime music, signal cannon, and bagpipes.
Local tribes, military representatives, and faith leaders will participate in the ceremony, emphasizing respect for both cultural traditions and the natural environment. By bringing together tribal leaders, environmental groups, students, service members, and local residents, the event highlights the shared responsibility of caring for Quilcene Bay.
Whether arriving by boat or by land, attendees will find an opportunity to connect with Quilcene’s history, the people, and remarkable waterfront.
For more information, community members are encouraged to contact the Quilcene Harbor Yacht Club.
National “America’s Field Trip” Contest Now
Open for Student Applications
A nationwide student contest celebrating America’s upcoming 250th anniversary is now open, giving young people a chance to share their voices and win an unforgettable learning experience.
America’s Field Trip invites students in grades 3 through 12 to reflect on what America means to them through writing or original artwork. Applications are now being accepted and must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. PT on March 30, 2026.
The contest encourages students to respond to the prompt: “What does America mean to you?” Through their submissions, students can explore their personal perspectives on the nation’s history, values, and future.
In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the program is expanding to offer more opportunities than ever before. This year,
250 students nationwide will be selected to receive either a special behind-the-scenes field trip to one of the country’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks or a cash prize. Organizers say the program highlights the importance of young voices as the nation looks ahead to its next 250 years.
“Today’s young people are the leaders, innovators, and thinkers who will shape our future,” the program notes. “It’s important their ideas and perspectives are heard as we mark this historic milestone.”
Students, parents, and educators can find more information and application details at america250.org/ fieldtrip.
A Sunrise Renewal: Handcrafted Comfort and Community at Hoodsport Lodging
A familiar landmark along Hood Canal is entering a new chapter. The Sunrise Resort in Hoodsport is undergoing a thoughtful transformation—one that blends modern comfort with deep family roots and local craftsmanship.
More than seventy years after the original motel was built, the Sunrise is being rebuilt on the same footprint, ensuring it remains a cherished part of the Hood Canal community for generations to come. The first phase of construction is already complete, with nine beautifully finished rooms now open to guests. An additional eleven rooms are scheduled for completion in 2026. Owners Diane and Shawn Benson describe the project as both an investment in the future and a tribute to the past.
“We have amazing guests,” Diane said, “and we are thrilled to upgrade the Sunrise so families and friends can continue making memories here for decades.”
But beyond upgraded amenities and waterfront views, what truly sets the renovation apart is the story behind the furniture in each room. Every bed, desk, and table has been handcrafted by co-owner Shawn, whose woodworking skills bring both artistry and heart to the project. One room features furniture made from a log rescued directly from Hood Canal—retrieved by kayak.
The remaining wood was harvested from the family’s Olympia property and milled in Shawn’s workshop with help from his father, uncle, brother, and one of his sons.This multi-generational effort has resulted in rustic, elegant furnishings that give each room a unique character and sentimental value. The craftsmanship reflects not only Shawn’s talent, but also the family’s deep connection to the land and water that surround the resort.
The newly designed rooms emphasize tranquility, accessibility, and comfort. Guests enjoy improved soundproofing, air conditioning, and private balcony decks or patio-level seating directly overlooking the water. Ramp access replaces stairs, making the resort more welcoming for all visitors.
Special attention has also been given to the diving community, a longtime part of Sunrise’s guest base. A new diver services center will feature a warm indoor gear-up area, rinse stations, air fills, drying rooms, and secure lockers— making waterfront exploration more convenient year-round.
For those seeking extra space and privacy, the resort also offers a two-bedroom cottage that sleeps four and the Water’s Edge house, which accommodates up to seven guests. Once construction is complete, guests can also look forward to a new pier, gangway, and dock.
With handcrafted furnishings, modern amenities, and an enduring commitment to community, the Sunrise Resort’s renovation is more than a construction project—it is a renewal of place, purpose, and tradition along the shores of Hood Canal. For more details visit sunriseresorthoodcanal.com.
