Road tripping Hood Canal this Fall

Ahh... road trips . There’s nothing that holds more appeal than the classic road trip – discovering new places,trying new things. Here's a few of our favorite locations around the Fjord. The following itinerary starts at theBremerton ferry.

Belfair

Nestled between the North Bay of the Puget Sound and the southern hook of Hood Canal, Belfair is a great place for road trip supplies or to have lunch before heading off to explore the 130+ acre birder’s dream wetlands, Theler Wetlands Nature Preserve.

Stop by Casper’s Pizza (23730 NE SR 3) or visit Bent Bine Brew Co, to try their new brews. Hankering for wine? Check out the award winning Mosquito Fleet Winery. Just around the bend is the famed Belfair State Park (above).

Alderbrook Resort and Spa

Since 1913, generations of visitors have enjoyed the rustic, albeit very luxurious, charm of this canal-side retreat on 88 acres, which include an 18-hole golf course. The guest rooms are ideal for a rejuvenating escape, while the cozy cottages are perfect for family fun. Complete with a waterfront restaurant, dock, and saltwater pool and spa, the resort also offers access to boating from kayak rentals to schooner tours. Alderbrook Resort & Spa (10 E Alderbrook Dr., Union (360) 898-2200).

Twanoh

Twanoh State Park’s 182 acres include over 3000 feet of saltwater shoreline and 2.5 miles of hiking trails. Stop by to gather shellfish off the public beaches (you will need a license) or simply follow the stream up the back acreage. There is a fantastic campground here as well as historic buildings to explore.

Union

The spectacular views from Union are not to be taken lightly. This is definitely the best vantage point to view the Olympic range. On the journey to Union’s center, take a moment to admire the historic Dalby Water Wheel and stop in at Cameo Boutique for some great shopping of local items. Check out the Union Country Store (5130 SR 106) for fresh bakery goods and all you need to continue the adventure. Across the road, on the waterside, 2 Margaritas Restaurant serves Mexican food; while the Union City Market stocks everything from gifts and collectibles to homemade candy and fresh oysters and offers a la carte dining in their outdoor cooking space with a spectacular view of the canal.

Hunter Farms

The drive along the Skokomish delta is sublime. As the road weaves it’s path around the shoreline, you are treated to glimpses of the Olympics filtered through patches of arbutus clinging to the beach edge. Before the road forks west, you will be greeted by an immense red barn. This is Hunter Farms. Fall is a great time to visit the farm as they celebrate with a giant pumpkin patch, corn maze, as well as weekend entertainment and events. In late October they host a giant pumpkin chucking competition. Stop and stretch your legs, check out the many animals and fresh produce as well as the selection of locally made products. Visit the on site information kiosk but most of all, get a generous cone filled with locally sourced (as in the Skokomish Valley), Olympic Mountain Ice Cream. Amazing.

Potlatch State Park

Potlatch State Park is a 57-acre camping park with 9,570 feet of shoreline on Hood Canal. The park’s grounds are great for picnic, beach exploring, camping, boating and shellfish harvesting. With clear, mostly calm waters, Potlatch is a favorite with divers and kayakers.

Hoodsport

Hoodsport is a seaside town perched on the western shores of the Hood Canal beneath the shadow of the Olympics. There are plenty of shops and dining as well as two wineries: Hoodsport Winery and Stottle Winery. Be sure to stop in at The Hardware Distillery. The Distillery offers a variety of delectable hand crafted spirits and a gorgeous view to enjoy while sipping away in their ambient tasting room. Also new this year is the addition of the Potlatch Brewery in Hoodsport. Hoodsport is known as the gateway to the Olympic National Park Staircase Entrance. At the foot of the hill heading up to Lake Cushman, stop by the Hoodsport Information Center (N 150 Lake Cushman Rd) for great tips on road/trail conditions, permits, maps, free WiFi and friendly guidance.

Lilliwaup

Situated on the west shore of Hood Canal, Lilliwaup is a small town with a BIG history and a love of shellfish. Peppered with serene beaches and surrounded by endless hiking trails, Lilliwaup is all about relaxation and rejuvenation. Located in the area is Mike’s Beach Resort. One of the oldest and most picturesque accommodations on the canal with a unique blend of the rustic look of the Northwest and the relaxed, cozy, and charming chalet style. A dock and mooring buoys as well as rowboats, paddleboat, and a ocean kayak are available for rent. This is also the home to the Olympic Oyster Co. so you can be sure to enjoy some of the finest oysters on your stay! The nearby Lilliwaup Store is a great place to get your Olympic Mountain Ice Cream.

Hama Hama

Family owned Hama Hama Oyster Co. has been harvesting oysters and clams on Hood Canal for four generations. Their store and outdoor restaurant are located a shell’s toss from the tide flats. A visit to the farm is a great way to experience Hood Canal oysters in their native habitat. During the week see the shucking crew in action. Weekends dine in the oyster saloon.

Brinnon

Located on the Hood Canal waterfront. Here you will find food and shops and be sure to stop in and view the seven acres of heritage plants at Whitney Gardens and check out their retail store that is open year round. This is a great opportunity to get that elusive heritage plant for the gardener on your list. After your garden walk, stop in at the Halfway House Cafe for their famous and delicious pies.

Mount Walker

Okay –maybe this is more of a detour–but if you have the time and weather is clear, and don't mind a curvy dusty road – the views are spectacular from the summit. On a clear day you can see from Mount Baker and Seattle's skyline to Mount Rainier and the shores of Hood Canal.

Quilcene

Located on the Olympic Peninsula along the Hood Canal and is a friendly community of 600 people. Here you will find stores, restaurants and even espresso! Stop by the variety of antique shops in your hunt for treasures and visit the historical museum. Take the time to visit the Worthington Park. September 18-19 is the annual Quilcene Fair and Parade Festival weekend in which Worthington Park participates with the Oyster Races half marathon as well as providing food, live music, tours and family activities.

Want to find out more about these great places? Follow explorehoodcanal.com for additional road trip ideas.