Fall Fjord 2023

Congrats Mason Health scholarship winners!

Mason Health awarded 9 full-ride scholarships this spring to Shelton High School Health Sciences Academy graduating seniors. Congratulations to the following winners, who will be o ered a position at Mason Health upon graduation from a local medical training or higher education program

Treasure each moment.

Rachel Hansen | Fjord editor

As of late the moments have been going by fast. You blink and summer is nearly over. Seriously, where did the summer go? What happened to the lazy days of hanging by the beach. Thinking, maybe, just maybe, we should go get something done.

HA! Not 2023 for the Hansens. It has been full steam ahead and no looking back. This summer we managed to carve a few days out of our schedule to head up to Canada to celebrate my dad's 80th birthday. Next week we are closing our eyes and ignoring all responsibilities to head to Colorado to celebrate Luke as he enters into Veterinary Sciences at CSU.

Otherwise this summer has been all hand's on deck –and what a journey. Along with Jeff Slakey the new format for KMAS 1030 AM/ 103.3 FM has taken shape with so many amazing advancements that our iconic local station can step up and play with the big guys!

New service thanks to Bobbie, John and PUD#3; local music format with a lot of work from Jeff and Aryonna. A huge thank you to all of you! We truly appreciate the support from the community. Keep listening, Mason County, we can't wait to pull out the Christmas CDS!

How about that café? Who would have thought that Chef Xinh would cast aside retirement to cause a bit of a stir in Hoodsport. She loves seeing all her friends and she loves cooking for you. As I look back and reflect on each week's happenings – Fjordin Crossin, Bluegrass from the Forest, Forest Festival, I am startled at all the

moments that simply flew by and the amazing people pulling all them off!

I am humbled by family, friends and newly minted friendships who step up each day to help us accomplish all these crazy ventures!. Carl Gray, you are wonderful. It's your mother's birthday today and I missed that moment writing a magazine. But, Happy Birthday. You both have made many moments in Hoodsport – that we never imagined a year ago – precious memories.

The point? It goes fast. But it's worth it and I look forward to slowing down soon and enjoying all those precious moments. See you in the moment.

Flotsam on the Fjord

ISSUE 26 | VOLUME 7

EVENT SCHEDULE

WHAT'S HAPPENING?– 6

FALL CELEBRATIONS

GET YOUR SPOOKY ON - 19

COVER STORY

WE'RE GOING TO THE DOGS - 19

Fabulous FJORD FUNGI – 21

ELK LAKES

Craig Romano feature hike - 25

tracingthefjord.com

Tracing the Fjord is produced quarterly by IMAGE IN ACTION DESIGN

RACHEL HANSEN (360) 427-5599 | PO Box 622, Shelton, WA 98584

© 2023 No reprint without permission.

Cover Image: FREYA & WAYLON, Michael Ping

TEND YOUR SEA GARDEN

FARM REFLECTIONS - 31

SHELLFISH FEATURE-42

ERIN RANNEY

LOCAL CINEMATOGRAPHER – 59

“Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” Dr Seuss

Cruisin through Time Car Show benefits Historical Museum

The downtown car show is back! Join the Mason County Historical Society & the Shelton Downtown Merchants in a new version of an old tradition with the return of their classic car show on Railroad Ave, August 27.

The festivities begin at 8 AM with registration for cars open through 10 AM when judging begins. Cost for vehicle entry is $20. Admission to the event, 10 AM – 3 PM is free.

With over 25 awards, plus vendors, raffle and more – there is plenty for the family to see. Plan to shop, eat and grab a coffee or cocktail at our many downtown eateries, bars, and retailers. They can’t wait to see you!

For more information on entering or attending this event, visit sheltondowntownmerchants.com

Event CALENDAR

REOCCURRING

Tuesdays

Shelton Parks & Rec Pickleball

Tuesdays, 9 - 11 AM

Community Transit Center (MTA)

Adult drop-in pickleball. $3.00/drop in.

Bookmobile in Brinnon & Quilcene

Tuesdays

10 AM–12 PM Brinnon Community Center

1:30 – 4 PM Quilcene Community Center

Thursdays

Creative Creations

Thursdays, 3 PM - 5 PM

Timberland Library, 710 W Alder St, Shelton Craft and STEAM activities with supplies and featured projects to inspire observation, exploration, design, engineering and creation of all kinds. Kids and families, all ages. FREE

Live From the Shell Pile

Hama Hama Oyster Co, Lilliwaup

Thursdays, 2–7 PM (See story page 56)

Fridays

Shelton Family YMCA FREE Teen Night

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

YMCA open for teens (7–12 grade) to get active, spend time together, play basketball, swim.

Live Entertainment at the Drift

Fridays, 9 PM, 19330 US Hwy 101, Skokomish

Saturdays

Bookmobile in Brinnon & Quilcene

Saturdays

10 AM–12 PM Brinnon Community Center

1:30 – 4 PM Quilcene Community Center

Market on the Hill in Hoodsport

2nd & 4th Saturdays (thru Sept), 9 AM - 3 PM

St Germain Episcopal Church, Hoodsport

Cove Country Store Coffee Social Hour

Saturdays, 12 - 1 PM

303075 US Hwy 101, Brinnon

Sundays

Seabeck Community Market

First and third Sunday of each month. 15565 Seabeck Hwy NW, Seabeck, WA

McReavy House (Est. 1890) Historic Tours

Sundays, 12 - 4 PM ( June 18 - September 4) 10 East 2nd Street, Union

AUGUST

Mason County Resource & Job Fair

Thursday, August 11, 1– 3 PM

Shelton Transit Center, Shelton Visit with vendors including Sound Learning.

Quilcene Historical Museum 14th Annual Tasting Gala

Friday, August 11, 5 - 8 PM

151 W Columbia St, Quilcene Music, local artisans, wine, brews and vendors.

5k Resilience Run/Walk honoring Jenna

Saturday, Aug 12, 8 AM

Huff & Puff Trail, Shelton

Registration starts at 7:15 AM. Kids 12 and under are FREE. runsignup.com/Race/Events/WA/Shelton/5KResilienceRun

Hood Canal Summerfest

Saturday, Aug 12,10 AM - 5 PM

Belfair State Park, Belfair

Live music, food, art, vendors and a beer and wine garden — as well as a waterfront classic car show. northmasonrotary.org.

Chalk the Walks

Tuesday, Aug 15

Write an uplifting message in chalk on your sidewalk, driveway or parking lot. #chalkthewalks

EDC Business Appreciation & Drive Event

Thursday, August 17, 4:00 - 6:00 PM

Ridge Motorsports Park, Shelton

Summer Songwriter Stage, Jesse Rice

August 17, 7 PM

6790 WA 106, Union

Jesse Rice's latest "Pirate Sessions V" topped singer-songwriter charts this spring. It's received rave reviews and regular airplay Tickets $25, VIP $100.

Xinh's chicken curry & crab cakes

Proudly serving: Urraco Coffee

Tillamook Ice Cream

High Steel Beer

Potlatch Brewery Co.

Stottle Winery

Sea Nymph Oysters & Clams

Culinary creations of Chef Xinh Dwelley

Hoodstock Music & Arts Festival

Saturday & Sunday, Aug 19 -20

Union, various locations

Buy a Flag and "float" this waterfront event or attend music and community events. hoodstock.org

Tailgate Rock Sale & Swap

Saturday, Aug 19,

2100 E Johns Prairie Rd, Shelton, WA

FREE admission and parking. Explore interesting, Informative, fun outdoor displays for family.

11th Annual All County Picnic

Sunday, August 20, 11 - 4:00 PM

HJ Carroll Park's Rotary Pavilion

9884 Highway 19, Chimacum

North Mason School PICNIC

Wednesday, Aug 23, 4 - 7:00 PM

North Mason School Upper Campus

Food trucks, musical entertainment, and games.

History UnCorked: Lighthouse Lore

Thursday, August 24, 7 - 8:30 PM

280 4th St, Bremerton

Join the Kitsap History Museum as they uncork a few bottles of wine and share a bite of history! Lewis Noah with Friends of Point No Point Lighthouse shares the many stories of this historic lighthouse located in Hansville. Point No Point Light Station is Washington's oldest operating lighthouse on the Puget Sound and has been in operation guiding sailors since 1879. FREE

Mason County Resource & Job Fair

Friday, August 25, 1-3 PM

The Bridge Church,Belfair

Visit with Sound Learning and other vendors.

THING Music Festival

August 25-27

200 Battery Way, Port Townsend

An eclectic festival of music and arts that takes place at historic Fort Worden. stgpresents.org

3rd annual Hot Rodders Show

Aug 26, 4 – 10 PM

11 E Johns Creek Dr, Shelton, WA

Head over to Old Iron Park for the 3rd Annual Hot Rodder Car Show in Shelton

Cruisin' Through Time CAR SHOW

Sunday, August 27, 10 AM - 3 PM

Railroad Ave, Shelton

MasonCounty Historical Society is collaborating with Shelton Downtown Merchants to present the return of the downtown car show.

Details – SheltonDowntownMerchants.com

Food Forest Work Party

Thursday, August 31, 9 AM -12 PM

600 NE Roessel Rd, Belfair

Salmon Center's Food Forest will become part of the U-Pick garden, containing fruit, berry, and nut trees and shrubs which will feed folks and wildlife for years to come. Learn more and sign-up pnwsalmoncenter.org/get-involved/ volunteer/

SEPTEMBER

Olympia Harbor Days

September 1- 3

217 Thurston Ave NW, Olympia Climb aboard tugboats on Saturday and watch them race on Sunday. Visit tall ships, steamships, sailboats, mini tugs, remote control tugboats & sailboats. Explore markets, food galleys, cedar stick smoked salmon, music, sand carving, activities for the kids, and so much more. FREE

Mason County Overdose Awareness Walk & Resource Fair

Friday, September 1, 3-5 PM Kneeland Park, Shelton

WA State Department of Ecology

Tuesday, September 5 – 5:30 – 7PM

Union Fire Hall, Union Hood Canal Improvement Club presents a speaker series: status of septic land application and lagoon off Webb Hill Road in Union

Hoodsport 55th Anniversary Celebration

Wednesday, September 6, 3-5 PM

Fjord Oyster Bank, 24341 US-101, Hoodsport Enjoy refreshments as Mason Health celebrates 55 years of delivering health care to the community! Meet and mingle with Mason Health leadership, staff and Mason Clinic-Hoodsport providers, Dr. Daniel Burris, MD, and new provider Catherine Shutty, ARNP Learn about Mason Health's free Medicare Wellness program Take a guided tour of Mason Clinic-Hoodsport and check out the new historic artwork on display!

Moonfest

Friday, September 8-10 Lake Leland, Quilcene moon-fest.com

Outdoor Summer Concert

Friday, September 8, 6 PM

The Grant School

152 E Community Club Rd, Shelton

An evening of country music on the lawn.

2nd Annual Schoolhouse Rocks

Saturday, September 9, 3-11:00 PM

Evergreen Square, Shelton featuring The Lowdown Drifters.

Pacific NW Endurance Cup Grand Finale

Saturday September 9, 2023

Ridge Motorsports Park 1060 W Eells Hill Rd, Shelton ridgemotorsportspark.com

Shelton Car Show

Sunday, September 10, 11 AM – 2 PM

Shelton Ford, 180 W Hulbert Rd, Shelton, WA

See some cool cars in Shelton! There will be an auto show with raffles and free food to benefit Charlie’s Vision and their efforts.

JOIN CLUB LUCKY

NEW MEMBERS RECEIVE A FREE BURGER BASKET IN THE DRIFT.

MEMBERSHIP IS FREE, JUST NEED TO BE AGE 21+.

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100% NON-SMOKING. 100% OF THE TIME.

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THE DRIFT

Every Friday Night

Friends Library Book Sale

Tuesday, September 12, 10 AM

23081 WA-3, Belfair, WA 98528

Meet with Sheriff Spurling in Hoodsport

Thursday, Sepember 14

Fjord Oyster Bank

24341 N US Hwy 101, Hoodsport

Water Sounds Annual Native Art Auction and Traditional Dinner

Saturday, September 16, 4:30 PM - 8 PM

Little Creek Casino Events Center, Kamilche

Silent and live auctions, traditional foods and cultural sharing. squaxinislandmuseum.org

Quilcene Fair & Parade & Car Show

September 16, 10 AM – 3 PM

294715 Hwy 101, Quilcene

Music, raffle, exhibitions, kids games and activities. Vendors & Car show 10 AM - 3 PM quilcenefair.org

Quilcene Oyster Races

Sunday, September 17

151 E. Columbia St. , Quilcene

Half Marathon and 10K races. runsignup.com

NEW FAMILY DINING AREA

OPEN 11AM – 9PM

Builders First Source Belt Sander Races

Saturday, September 16, 11 AM

114 E Cedar Street, Shelton

Bring your own belt sander or purchase one on site ($40). $50 entry fee – A chance to win 1 of 3 prizes; swag bag, hot dog, chips and drink.

Great Bend's Jazz in the Barn Gala

Saturday September 16, 5:30 - 10:00 PM

600 NE Roessel Rd, Belfair, WA 98528

Featuring the Kareem Kandi World Orchestra, ticket. $125 greatbendmusic.org

National Parks Free Day

September 23 – National Public Lands Day

Seabeck BBQ/Open House

September 23, 12 - 4 PM

Seabeck Community Center

Maria and Sergei Telesheb

Thursday September 28, 7 PM

Shelton High School Peforming Arts Center

Aunique collaboration between father and daughter, both renowned musicians, accordion champions. masoncountyconcerts.org

Allyn Town Oktoberfest

Saturday, September 30 · 1 - 8 PM

Allyn Waterfront Park, 18560 E. SR 3, Allyn Local seasonal microbrews, live music, German themed foods and costume contest.

Tiny Homes BIG Future

Saturday, September 30, 6 – 8 PM

190 W Sentry Dr, Shelton, WA

Celebrating the opening of Shelton Veterans Village, and all the great work that is helping to house 95 persons safely.

OCTOBER

HCIC Chowder Cook-off

October 3 – 5:30 – 7PM

Union Fire Hall, Union Local amateur and professional chefs

2nd Annual “From Sheep to Shawl”

Quilcene Fiber Festival

Sat, Oct 7, 2023, 10am - 4pm

151 E. Columbia St.,Quilcene

See a sheep being shorn, learn to knit, weave and felt, visit with local hand dyers, spinners, and knitters. worthingtonparkquilcene.org

Scan for Our Band Lineup

OysterFunk

Friday, October 6

Sanderson Field Airport, Shelton, WA

Oysterfest

Saturday and Sunday, October 7-8

Sanderson Field Airport, Shelton, WA

Shuck & Share Walk/Run

Sunday, October 8 | See Story page 29

Meet with Sheriff Spurling in Hoodsport

Thursday, October 12

Fjord Oyster Bank

24341 N US Hwy 101, Hoodsport

Father Daughter Night Out

October 21, Location TBD

Mason General Hospital Foundation

Sound Learning's Annual meeting

October 26, 6 PM

PUD, John's Prairie Rod, Shelton

Shelton Downtown Spooktacular

Friday, October 27, 4-6 PM

Join the Shelton Downtown Merchant and the Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce as they come together to host an epic halloween celebration in the street. Prizes for best costumes and plenty of giveaways.

Hunter Farm Pumpkin Catapult Contest

Saturday, October 28, 12- 1 PM

Hunter Farms, 1921 E SR 106, Union

How far can a pumpkin fly? Wood catapults and trebuchets compete annually.

NOVEMBER

Mason County Senior Winter Bazaar

November 4, 10 AM - 3 PM

The Pavilion, Shelton

Meet with Sheriff Spurling in Hoodsport

Thursday, November 9

Fjord Oyster Bank

24341 N US Hwy 101, Hoodsport

Coyle Women’s Club Turkey Dinner

Saturday, November 11, 5:30 PM

Laurel B. Johnson Community Center

923 Hazel Point Road, Quilcene

The Rice Brothers

Saturday, November 11, 7 PM

SHS Performing Arts Center

masoncountyconcerts.org

Power of the Purse

Saturday, November 11, 5:30 - 9 PM

Skookum Creek Events Center

91 WA-108, Shelton

Power of the Purse benefits Turning Pointe

Survivor Advocacy Center and the vital services they offer survivors of domestic violence.

Business Luncheon

November 17

Ridge MotorSports

Mason General Hospital Foundation

Shop Small Saturday

November 25

SAVE THE DATE:

Meet with Sheriff Spurling in Hoodsport

Thursday, December 7

Fjord Oyster Bank

24341 N US Hwy 101, Hoodsport

Santa Claus Parade & Festivities

December in Shelton, WA

Visit christmatownwa.org for a complete list of events and activities throughout the month.

Shelton Lighted Boat Parade

December 8 & 9

Hammersley's Inlet, Shelton

The Shelton Yacht Club boat parade is best viewed from Walker Park.

QUILCENE, WASHINGTON

Embracing the spooky season!

heralding fall

As the leaves turn color and evenings become longer and crisper you know that Autumn is here. Now is a time for pumpkin flavored everything, cozy scarves and dreaming about outrageous Halloween costumes. Bonfire parties and apple picking adventures should be on your check list. But how do you embrace the spooky?

This changing of the season when summer's explosive productivity begins to die into the stagnation of winter is full of elements of the occult. The Pacific Northwest is famous for its Autumn salmon runs – where dead fish litter the streams and rivers. Here death means life as the salmon’s last act is to spawn and fertilize the eggs of the next generation and their rotting carcasses are essential to the ecosystem as birds, bears and other animals feast on this fall bounty.

A fantastic place to experience this phenomenon is the Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail. Located off of Hwy 101 this active salmon stream opens up for full tours with docents answering questions from Saturday, October 29 until Sunday, November 27 from 10 AM to 4 PM on weekends. This trail is maintained by the South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group and their website is a great resource for learning about the trail and salmon ecology.

Beginning at the head of Oyster Bay, at the traditional site of the Sawamish/T’Peeksin village (ancestors of today’s Squaxin Island Tribe), this trail was once part of a greater network of Native American trails that connected South Puget Sound with the Pacific Coast. The Kennedy Creek was known as “Place of the Singing Fish” by the Squaxin Island Tribe due to the resonant singing of the frogs heard along the stream’s banks in the spring.

Chum (or dog fish) are the dominant species that run this stream at numbers as high as 800,000 salmon a year. The Squaxin harvested these fish for oil and for food, drying them on racks. The salmon can be seen running right from the creek’s bank.

Fall is also a time when the eerie fungus proliferates. Not quite a plant and not quite an animal this parasitic organism loves the cooler temperatures, and the Olympic forests are full of these fairytale creatures. Grab a guidebook and go picking! Or just take a hike and photograph these otherworldly beings. Check out Aryonna's article on page 21.

The longer evenings mean you can catch up on your scary Netflix or enjoy a spooky movie at the Skyline DriveIn Theatre in Shelton. The Skyline is fun way to experience classic and new cinema. Don’t like the idea of being cramped in your car? Bring a cozy blanket and camp chairs and stake out your spot.

Stella Wenstob

If real theatre is more your jam the Bremerton Community Theatre are offering the psychological thriller, The Turn of the Screw, from October 1-15 at the Robert B. Stewart Performance Hall. An adaption of Henry James’ classic gothic horror story – this play forces the audience to be the judge – is this a ghost story or a tragic account of an hysterical breakdown? Is the protagonist, a governess employed at a remote country estate, suffering paranoid delusion or is she bravely struggling to protect her two students against two malevolent ghosts (or are they ghosts?)? In the end, the narrative begs the question of which is more terrifying –battling the supernatural or battling a sick mind?

I personally would stop there in the pursuit of the spooky (maybe add rereading Edgar Allan Poe or Harry Potter) but for the braver folks out there with an interest in the supernatural, did you know there are several local “haunts” (yes, pun intended)?

Perched on the hilltop above Union is the haunted Victorian mansion known as the McReavy House. Built in 1890 by the enterprising lumberman and town founder, John McReavy, this house was listed in 2007 on the Washington Trust for Historical Places with the status of “most endangered places.” John McReavy was an important figure in Union’s history as he built the hotel, wharf, sawmill, store, Masonic Lodge and church. He also served as the postmaster and on the territorial legislature from 1869 to 1889 where he was one of the signatories for the document declaring the statehood of Washington. He platted land around Union on dreams that the railway would travel through the area on its way to the Port Townsend terminus.

He advertised Union as the “Venice of Pacific.” The 1893 depression dampened these dreams, when Tacoma was

October 27 | 4-6 PM

spooktacular

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

Calling all goblins, ghosts, and witches – the entire community is invited to take part in an enchanting evening of trick-or-treating with our fantastic local businesses. Mark your calendars for Friday, October 27, from 4:00 to 6:00pm

Prepare for a fun-filled experience as you stroll along the sidewalks, collecting treats & surprises from our friendly merchants.

Railroad Ave from 1st to 5th will transform into a pedestrian paradise, ensuring that everyone can roam freely and enjoy Halloween spirit safely.

Additionally, businesses and organizations (downtown or not) are invited to join in the fun! With extra space along Railroad and in Evergreen Square, if you're eager to contribute to the Halloween magic, let us know. Sheltondowntownmerchants.com

chosen as the Pacific railway terminus leaving Port Townsend and Hood Canal high and dry. McReavy lost nearly everything except his mansion on the hill. After McReavy’s death in 1918 his daughter Helen McReavy Andersen remained there for over fifty years. She published her memoirs in 1960, How When and Where on Hood Canal, and charmingly describes how the McReavy house was a repository of local history:

“I have done no research except in “This Old House” – scrapbooks, letters and books from its shelves. Credit must go to my husband who jeopardized his bronchials by pushing through dust and cobwebs to trunks and boxes down in dark corners of a dirt flood basement and up in the dusty attic inhabited by bats, spiders, sawbugs and ants, for the many letters and documents which seemed invaluable.” [1960:5]

Helen and her husband were the last residents of McReavy House. Helen passed away in 1969 and her husband a year later. The house sat empty as ivy and blackberries tried to take the mansion back to the earth. In 2007, the house was donated by the Visser Family (descendants of the McReavy family) to be used as a community asset. Since then, the McReavy House non-profit organization has raised funds and coordinated volunteers slowly returning its Victorian grandeur revealing fine wood floors and woodworking details, while adding conveniences such as a kitchen and a fully functioning bathroom.

McReavy House also has the distinction of being haunted. At least two paranormal investigating teams have conducted research here. In 2009, ten members of LORE (League of Occult Research and Education), a medium, and a couple skeptics camped out overnight and conducted research.

They experienced eerie weather (thunderstorms in July), a power outage and the medium raised several paranormal connections (including a conversation with John McReavy himself) but one skeptic attendee, Ric Hallock described the evening to the Kitsap Sun (July 17, 2009) as:

“as being akin to a grown-up version of camp night, where the campers would gather about a fire nestled deep amid rustling trees and snapping branches as a camp counselor weaved a tale of suspense and terror of a haunted night long ago

private life are put under

investigation.

at the very site. The scariest moment I had was while driving away and pointing down Main Street on a very, very steep incline and imagining the brakes giving way to a fast and furious ride down the hill, across a short gravel parking lot and straight into the cold waters of Hood Canal. That would be a chilly fright indeed.”

In April of 2010, McReavy House was again visited by ghostly investigators. The Olympic Peninsula Paranormal Society used 8 DVR camera system, two Camcorders, many audio recorders, Ghost Box (a radio device which randomly scan AM and FM frequencies, presenting the audio as the words of spirits) and Dowsing rods. Photos, video and 28 instances of electronic voice phenomena (EVP) audio were recorded. The audio recordings are of various answers to the investigators questions seemingly by spirits in the room. Also observed were unexplainable door closures and paper moving – maybe an unaccounted-for draft? Or maybe the movements of a restless ghost?

Next up, no self-respecting Pacific Northwest bookstore would be complete without a copy of the iconic and enduring memoir of M. Wylie Blanchet, The Curve of Time (1962). Canadian travel writer Blanchet presents vignettes of summertime boating excursions with her five children (and sometimes dog) up the Inside Passage of British Columbia during the 1920s and 1930s. Not simply a travelogue, Blanchet describes the book as "neither a story nor a log; it is just an account of many long sunny summer months, during many years when the children were young and old enough to take on camping holidays up the coast of British Columbia.” As a single mother widowed in 1926 when her husband was mysteriously lost at sea, the adventures in this book are a remarkable testament to overcoming grief. However, grief is not what colors the passages – instead wonder in the natural beauty of the coast is the undercurrent that drives the writing. This book is lauded as a great literary maritime masterpiece, and it is perfect to be read when you are on your own Northwest adventure.

regularly presents historical Ghost Walks with stops at the museum, Community Centre, the cemetery, and the infamous Walker-Ames house.

Ghostly apparitions have been reported at this model town since at least the 1950s. Port Gamble also hosts the yearly Ghost Conference. This three-day event (November 10-12) provides classes and lectures on the paranormal, including psychics, sensing energy, hypnosis, UFO’s, palmistry, and animal spirits. Additionally, at this event there are several opportunities to take part in paranormal investigations with experts in the field of the historic buildings of Port Gamble.

Above is only a taste of the books loved at the Vault. Oh yes, they have quite a TASTE for seafood cookbooks and oyster manuals too at the Vault – but those did not make this review. Additionally, beautiful children’s books (Maurice Sendak anyone?) and philosophies are also available – but you’ll have to come look for yourself! Embrace the rain and enjoy a book.

(I already said I am not brave enough to investigate ghosts properly, so if you’d like to listen/ view the data please visit https:// olympicpeninsulaparanormalsociety.com/McReavy_house_ April_2010.html).

If you want a more guided experience of the supernatural, the historic mill town of Port Gamble located at the mouth of the Hood Canal

As you can see, Hood Canal has its share of spooky, hair-raising ventures to explore in the time of the year when the “veil is the thinnest” as the seasons change. Whether you just want a pumpkin latte or wish to try interacting with the supernatural enjoy the season the Pacific Northwest way, you can choose with your own comfort level.

Hood Canal Communications believes everyone should have fast reliable internet and participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program. ACP is a federal government program providing qualifying households a discount of

To learn more and apply visit hcc.net/acp

35 FJORD

You're never too old – or young for that matter– for an autumn excursion to a pumpkin patch. Mason County's Hunter Farm in Union is one of our favorites. It's not the largest, nor the driest for that matter, but as far as experience, value, and good "clean" fun – this seventh generation farm is the perfect place to while away an October afternoon.

Pick a day for the Pumpkin Patch

Where: Hunter Farms, 1921 E SR 106, Union What: Corn maze, tractor rides, pumpkins, animals, food WHEN: October 1-31, open daily, visit Facebook and website for weekend events. hunterfarms.com

events culminate in a catapulet contest featuring local high school groups.

September

16 | Quilcene

Fair & Parade

The Quilcene Fair & Parade plus Car Show is a FREE family friendly event on Saturday, September 16 on the grounds of Quilcene School located at 294715 US Hwy 101 in Quilcene.

The Fair opens at 10 AM with local vendors and the car show.

The parade, along Hwy 101 in front of the school, starts at 11AM and is free to enter with registration beginning at 9 AM. All are encouraged to be in the parade –bring your logging truck, horse, tractor or advertise your business or club. Anything goes as long as it's family friendly!

Car show participants can be in the parade too and will receive a dash plaque. Car Show registration is $15 and also begins at 9 AM. Trophies will be awarded for Best in Show, Best Classic Car and Best Hot Rod.

After the parade, stick around for a kids carnival including laser tag and a foam party, prizes, food, vendors, local exhibits, raffle, car show and entertainment.

This year, volunteers are excited to have Quilcene’s own Kalan Wolfe & The Shift performing along with The Buck Ellard Band and Harmonica Pocket. More information can be found on quilcenefair.org. Stay tuned to it and our Facebook page for updates.

Vendors, including food vendors, can find pricing and registration on the website, quilcenefair.org

The Thicket on Hood Canal is abuzz

This small family flower farm grows 100% of the flowers and greenery in the bouquets they build. For every flower in a bouquet, they leave flowers standing to feed native pollinators that include bumblebees and butterflies.

Bouquets from The Thicket brighten tables at The Fjord Oyster Bank and Potlatch Brewing in Hoodsport and are available for local pickup and delivery.

Love dahlias? As a licensed and inspected nursery, growing healthy dahlias for tuber production is their special focus so others can grow these beauties, too. Follow them on Instagram @thethicket_pnw to see what they are growing and to start a dahlia wish-list for your own garden! Dahlias bloom from July - October at The Thicket, and locals

may purchase buckets of cut dahlias. You can visit their website to learn more and follow this small family farm growing in harmony with nature. thicketpnw.com

Grab a Stick – it's time to play Outdoors

What's your favorite adventure outdoors? Whatever your answer, take your best fur-friend along. Hiking, swimming, boating and camping are great ways to bond with your dog, while you enjoy the fresh air and exercise. A little pre-planning make your trip easy, safe and fun. Once you've got a successful outdoor excursion under your belt – and her collar – you'll be ready for many more!

Meet Luna. Luna is a two-year-old golden retriever that lives with her family and best friend, Bear (an eightyear-old Landseer Newfoundland) in Shelton. Bear and Luna love being on the water. In fact, given the chance, they'd stay on the beach all day chasing sticks, and hunting crabs and flounders in the inlet.

Luna also loves going for hikes with her humans but every once in a while they need to be reminded what to do when she's taking them out in the wilderness.

1. Stick to Pup-friendly trails

Trails located in the Olympic National Forest, DNR Land, County or State Parks are mostly dog-friendly. While you're welcome in Olympic National Park campgrounds, picnic areas and paved or dirt roads; most trails within the Olympic National Park prohibit you from walking them!

2. Care for Tender Paws

Make sure your people have proper hiking shoes and that your pads are toughened or purchase booties and get used to them before heading out.

3. Take it Easy Luna suggest start with an easy trail and slowly build up stamina.

4. Yield to oncoming traffic

Step off the trail when hikers pass and let other dogs know how friendly your humans are.

5. Leash Control

If the trail requires leashes, keep a short leash (6') on your human. Long leashes may get tangled in the bushes.

6. Leave no trace

Remind your humans to take out the trash and pack waste bags. If you are backpacking overnight, show them how to bury it at least 6" deep and away from camps and water sources.

August 19-20 | Union

HoodstocK

The annual Hoodstock Music and Arts Festival in Union showcases local musicians and artists. The main stage concert takes place on Saturday, August 19 from 11:30 AM to 6 PM on the water. This unique aspect of the festival means that main stage attendees "float" to view the lead acts. Don't worry, there's music and arts displays onshore – and for those who don't have their own boat, cruises are available.

"The festival is more than just music," claims organizer, Kelly Kahout, "it’s a celebration of community, giving back, and preserving a natural treasure –Hood Canal."

The festival's tagline, "Creativity, Expression, and Community," embodies this spirit that aims to bring together the vast musical talent of the area and support local non-profits with a focus on arts education and environmental sustainability. For land-loving supporters, there is live music and artists at the Union City Market Saturday, August 19 and Sunday, August 20.

Festival organizers give back by funding youth environmental education at the Hood Canal Salmon Center. In addition, the festival has named the North Mason and Hood Canal school music programs as beneficiaries.

This year, Hoodstock has partnered with Great Bend Center for Music to host a youth music camp at the Salmon Center during the week of Hoodstock. The kids attending the camp perform on the Union City Market Music Stage Saturday, August 19, at 11:30 AM to kick off the festival's events. Throughout the weekend artists from the community will also showcase their talents and sell their work at the Union City Market, giving festival-goers a chance to support local artists.

Hoodstock brings together local musicians, artists and supporters in a celebration of music, art and education. If you’re looking for a fun, unique and community-oriented event to attend in August, this is a good one to plan on! Mark your calendars for the Hoodstock Music and Arts Festival August 19 – 20 in Union WA.

Lake Limerick Community is Shelton's hidden gem

Have you had a chance to explore Shelton's lake communities? One that shouldn't get a miss is Lake Limerick, a HOA community located near Shelton with lots to offer members and public.

The challenging nine hole course prides itself on being affordable and remains open for the general public to enjoy. Join a league, host a company tournament, take lessons, just play with family and friends, or sign up for an annual memberships with unlimited play. Tee time can be booked online at lakelimerickgolf.com or call the pro shop for information (360)426-6290.

Open to the public five days a week from 7:30 AM to 3 PM and closed Mondays and Tuesdays, the Lake Limerick Café has received numerous awards. Host & cook, Brian and Holly, are serious about providing memorable dining experiences. Come give it a try!

The Great Hall rental space, with views of the lake, is over 2000 sf and includes a stage that is perfect for your next family or corporate event. Outside caterers are welcome. For more information or a tour call (360) 426-3581.

Check out Lake Limerick's online video highlighting all nine holes of the golf course, the pro shop, cafe, Great Hall as well as Lake Limerick from 200' in the air. View at lakelimerick.com.

Fabulous Fungi

It takes a keen eye to spot the distinct yellow freckling among the cluttered forest floor. With a small knife in one hand and mesh bag hanging from the other fist, an eager mushroom hunter maneuvers over fallen logs and around sticky brambles. As they approach closer, the vague golden blotches poking out of the ground take shape into convex wavy funnels. After thorough examination, the mushrooms are determined to be a patch of chanterelles, one of the most popular edible mushroom species found in the Pacific Northwest.

Autumn marks peak season for mushroom hunting in the Pacific Northwest. While some mushrooms can be found earlier, most don’t make an appearance until after the first good rainfall following summer, typically in September, and last until the first hard freeze. Chanterelles are only one of over 30 edible mushrooms found regionally in the wild.

Other popular edible species include oyster mushrooms, morels, matsutakes, chicken of the woods, lobster and cauliflower mushrooms, common puffballs, and more. However, identifying can be a difficult process with potentially fatal results as the area is also home to some of the deadliest mushrooms.

Fortunately, resources exist to help teach newcomers about the basics of fungi hunting.

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

Begin the journey to identify mushrooms with online classes, videos, websites and guidebooks. Or, better yet, learn from the experts – local folks who’ve spent years searching for forest fungi.

The Kitsap Peninsula Mycological Society (KPMS) is a non-profit group based in Bremerton. The organization is home to hundreds of members, from Seattle to the Olympic Peninsula.

Membership requires no special expertise. In fact, KPMS is geared mostly toward beginners.

"Retail, these mushrooms can cost from $15 to 35 per pound, but in the woods, the price tag is a sense of adventure, hard work, and knowledge about the world of fungi.

"

ARYONNA WILLOUGHBY

About a decade ago, David Ansley had a sudden fervor to spend more time out in the woods, and he found mushrooms to be the perfect excuse. He immediately joined KPMS. Now, he’s in his second year as president of the organization.

“You get to see a lot of backcountry that nobody else has any reason to look at,” Ansley said. “It’s a great way to get into the more natural and native parts of the forest here.”

Currently, the club is trying to expand their offerings to cater toward the wide breadth of interests people have in mycology. When KPMS first formed, they were primarily focused on educating people about edible mushrooms, but that’s changed greatly over the last few years.

“The members we now have are as interested in using mushrooms to dye wool [as they are] in psychedelic uses, habitat [research], ecosystem interactions, or the spirituality of understanding how fungi relate to the rest of life,” Ansley said.

A few times each year, the club hosts mushroom “forays” into the woods for its members. The forays place a heavy emphasis on learning about habitat, identification techniques and the individual mushrooms that are found in the region. Additional membership benefits include subscription to the club’s monthly newsletter, use of the members-only online forums, access to the lending library, and invitations to potlucks and monthly educational events. The price for yearly membership is $25 per household.

On November 5, KPMS will be hosting their annual Wild Mushroom Show at Olympic College in Bremerton from 1 – 5 PM. It’s the organization’s largest annual public event. Admission and parking are free.

Over 150 species of local mushrooms will be on display. The event will also include a speaker series from mycological experts, explanatory materials, cooking demonstrations and samples, a book and field guide sale, a chance to assemble your own home mushroom growing kit, and a children's area.

Corals, often in the genera

in fairy rings).

Photo courtesy of David Ansley

Members will also offer their expertise to identify mushrooms that anyone brings in. Typically, hundreds of attendees flock to the event, according to Ansley. “Broadly, it’s our big chance to show the entire community what we love about mushrooming and mushrooms and try to answer every single question [the community] brings in,” Ansley said.

MUSHROOM HUNTING REGULATIONS

Mushroom harvesting regulations in Washington can be complicated. Each public land agency has its own rules about harvesting mushrooms for personal use. The amount of mushrooms that can be harvested for personal use varies anywhere from one quart to three gallons. Before setting out, it’s best to check with the individual agency whose land you plan to visit. Always make sure to respect private property.

MUSHROOM HARVESTING TECHNIQUES

Avoid using destructive methods like rakes, dogs or pigs to harvest mushrooms. Instead, either cut at the base of the mushroom with a pocketknife or gently yank it from the ground.

Ramaria or Clavulina, are characterized by being highly branched, with tips that point upward. Ramaria species often grow

Although there is debate over which method is better, there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that pulling mushrooms causes any major damage to the rest of the organism below the ground. However, Ansley noted that to properly identify some mushrooms, every bit must be analyzed, including the size and shape of the base of the mushroom. Only pick two thirds the number of mushrooms you find, leaving the rest for spore distribution and wildlife.

Use a small brush to remove excess dirt from mushrooms before storing them in a container. When choosing a container, opt for a mesh bag or wicker basket. Both options will allow airflow to travel across the mushrooms, which promotes drying and prevents rotting. The small openings in the containers will also allow spores to drop from the mushrooms onto

the forest floor to help ensure repopulation. Make sure to avoid using plastic containers as some mushroom species can chemically react with the plastic, causing them to deteriorate.

USING MUSHROOMS

Don’t ever munch on a hunch! Always properly identify any mushroom before consuming it. If you have any doubts about the identity of a mushroom, throw it out.

“Honestly, one of the best ways of knowing a mushroom is safe is to have it handed to you by an old mushroom hunter who is still alive,” Ansley said. Keep in mind that it is possible to be allergic to certain mushrooms. Additionally, when some varieties are consumed alongside alcohol, adverse effects can occur.

Regional Mushrooms Clubs:

Kitsap Peninsula Mycology Society, Bremerton kitsapmushrooms.org

South Sound Mushroom Club, Olympia southsoundmushroomclub.com

Puget Sound Mycological Society, Seattle | psms.org

Southwestern Washington Mycological Society, Chehalis swmushrooms.org

Further reading:

“All That the Rain Promises and More” and “Mushrooms

Demystified,” David Arora

“Mushroom,” Nicholas Money

“The Mushroom Cultivator,” Paul Stamets

“Mycophilia: Revelations from the Weird World of Mushrooms,” Eugenia Bone

“The Mushrooms Hunters,” Langdon Cook

“A Field Guide to Edible Mushrooms of the Pacific Northwest,” Daniel Winkler

Above – Cauliflower mushroom – Photos courtesy of David Ansley

Experts recommend cooking mushrooms well, save for a few exceptions, and only eating a small amount while first trying them to minimize the chance of experiencing any adverse reactions. Once you’ve properly identified edible mushrooms, there are countless ways to cook them, whether you keep it simple with a pan fry (a little butter and garlic) or use them as an ingredient in a more elaborate recipe. Depending on the species, mushrooms may be used fresh, frozen, or dried.

While fun and rewarding, the entire process of foraging for mushrooms, from finding to identifying to cooking them, can be tricky and full of potential missteps. Be cautious!

Ansley isn’t ashamed to admit he’s experienced his fair share of close calls while attempting to identify mushrooms. He recalls harvesting a “luscious and huge” mushroom he hoped was the elusive matsutake species. He was halfway down a hill when the prized mushroom broke apart in his basket.“I looked at it and said, ‘wait a minute.’ I had never picked a matsutake before, but every single one that I had seen, the cap and the base are a single unit — they don’t break like that,” Ansley explained.

Once Ansley got back to his car, he consulted a fungi identification book. The beautiful mushroom he had harvested was not a matsutake. It was a poisonous and dangerous look-alike. “You learn the hard way,” Ansley said.

Shaggy Mane, Photos courtesy of David Ansley

Elk Lakes

Distance: 4.5 miles roundtrip Elevation Gain: 700 feet

High Point: 1200 feet

Difficulty: moderate

Snow free: year round Trailhead Pass Needed: None

Notes: Road to Lower Trailhead (Elk Branch) is extremely rough requiring a high clearance vehicle.

GPS waypoints: Lower Trailhead: N47 34.759 W123 07.222

Main Trailhead: N47 34.267 W123 08.008

Features: kid-friendly, dog friendly, old-growth, rhododendrons, bird-watching, fishing

Elk Lakes Trail

Craig Romano | Author & Photos

Named for one of the Olympic Peninsula’s most majestic animals, the two small Elk Lakes located within the Hamma Hamma River Valley offer quiet wanderings and a chance to see their namesake. The Elk Lakes offer a great alternative to the nearby oft-crowded Lena Lakes. While this hike is short, the lake’s tranquil shoreline and surrounding old-growth forest invite lingering. Bird watching is good as well as fishing for rainbow trout. Rhododendrons add colorful bouquets to the forest in spring, while maples and cottonwoods brighten the forest with golden touches come autumn.

Hit the Trail

You can easily reach the lakes from a short spur off of Forest Road 2480. But I prefer hiking to the lakes following along a remnant of an old trail along Jefferson Creek. This gives you a longer and varied hike and a better appreciation for the area’s rugged landscape and how human activity has greatly impacted it. Reaching the trailhead for this approach however is via a rough road that only high clearance vehicles can negotiate. If that is not an option, you can always park at the beginning of the road and walk FR 2421 for 1.6 miles to the trailhead. The road traverses a recent cut offering excellent views of the Hamma Hamma Valley, making the extra mileage interesting.

The trail begins at a bend in the road and heads into a forest that was recently burned. In the early part of the last century the entire Jefferson Creek Valley was draped in old-growth forest. After World War II and up to the 1990s the area was intensively logged leaving only remnant stands of old-growth forest and just a small stretch of was once a long trail in the Eastern Olympics. But what survived made a delightful short hike in an area often overlooked by many hikers opting instead for the nearby Lena Lakes.

The beautiful old-growth forest remaining around the Elk Lakes almost entirely went up in flames in the Maple Fire of 2018. A group of timber poachers harvesting mature big-leaf maples in the area set the area ablaze when they set fire to a wasp nest in the base of a tree. The fire quickly spread torching 3300 acres and costing $4.5 million to combat. Two of the poachers were ultimately caught, brought to trial and given prison terms. Timber poaching remains a serious problem on the Olympic Peninsula. The Forest Service lacks the staff and resources to address it.

While the fire did some damage to the Elk Lake area, thankfully many of the older trees survived. Unfortunately the fire took a major toll on nearby Jefferson Ridge rendering the trail to its old lookout site nearly impassable now. Such a shame as that trail too offered a quiet alternative to many of the area’s nearby crowded trails.

Head up the trail traversing a dry hillside, several hundred feet above roaring Jefferson Creek. Born in the snowfields of Mount Ellinor and her rugged neighbors; the creek crashes through a steep and narrow canyon here before

reaching the Hamma Hamma River. Pass through a mosaic burn on an up and down course before reaching cool old-growth forest.

The way then soon reaches a junction. Heading left will bring you to the upper trailhead. But for this suggested hike, you’ll be returning from that direction, so continue hiking straight through a grove of monster cedars coming to Elk Lake. Depending on the season the lake may be a wet grassy swale or a pretty reflecting pool. Regardless of water level, plenty of birdlife will be present.

Continue along the western shore before wandering along Jefferson Creek through more impressive old growth. The trail then terminates on FR 2401. You can retrace your steps, but I prefer making a loop by following the road left for 0.8 mile to another trail just after crossing Cedar Creek. But before heading down that trail back to Elk Lake, head right 0.2 mile on an oft overlooked and slightly brushy trail to pretty little Upper Elk Lake. This placid body of water offers beautiful reflections of nearby ridges and the surrounding forest.

Once you visit the Upper Lake pick up the trail near Cedar Creek and slightly descend to Elk Lake now hiking along its eastern shoreline. Pass some more big trees and come to a great shoreline area for casting a line or just admiring the area’s beauty. Then reach another junction.

The way right climbs and soon reaches the main trailhead on FR 2401. Continue left, soon crossing Jefferson Creek on large rocks. In spring and other periods of high water this may be difficult forcing you to retreat the way you came for a longer than anticipated hike. Just beyond the crossing reach a familiar junction. Here head right above the crashing creek retuning to your start.

Land Agency Contact: Olympic National Forest, Hood Canal Ranger District, Quilcene, (360) 7652200, fs.usda.gov/olympic

Recommended Guidebook: Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula 2nd edition (Craig Romano, Mountaineers Books)

Trailhead directions: From Hoodsport travel north on US 101 north for 13.7 miles turning left at milepost 318 onto FR 25 (Hamma Hamma River Road). Then continue west for 6.4 miles and turn left onto FR 2480. Cross the Hamma Hamma River and in 0.2 mile turn right onto unsigned FR 2421 for the Lower Trailhead (high clearance only). Follow this rough road 1.6 miles to a pullout on your left where the road makes a sharp turn right. This is the trailhead. For the Main Trailhead, pass the FR 2421 junction and continue on FR 2480 for 3 more miles. Then turn right onto FR 2401, and proceed 2.5 miles to a spur on your right leading 0.1 to the Main Trailhead. The spur is steep and can be rough. You can park alongside FR 2401 and walk the spur to the trailhead.

98584

Shuck & Share 5K Walk/Run, October 8

Hundreds of walkers/runners show up each year to participate in the Shuck & Share 5K Walk/Run, which happens on OysterFest Sunday. Proceeds from the race help fund Mason PUD 3’s Project Share program.

Project Share is a customer-funded program helping families in crisis situations who need help paying their electric bills. Through the generosity of donors, more than 300 low-income families are helped each year. As other sources of aid continue to dwindle, more customers rely on Project Share for assistance.

For more than 30 years, Mason PUD 3 customers and employees have generously funded Project Share. The Shuck & Share Walk/Run began in 2014 as

a way to raise awareness (and funds) for the program. The run attracts about 200 runners each year and raises approximately $3,000 for the program. Mason PUD 3 employees and local community members volunteer their time to organize the race each year. Success depends upon volunteers and sponsorships. This year’s 5K takes place on October 8 at 8 AM, located at the Huff N’ Puff across from the Shelton High School. It is a nice, flat, 5K loop. You do not need to be a PUD 3 customer to participate, simply donate, or register at www.pud3.org/run.

Save the Date – 9/16 Squaxin Island Museum Water Sounds Auction & dinner

The Squaxin Island Tribe hosts their Water Sounds Native Art Auction & Traditional Dinner, the annual fundraising event of the Squaxin Island Museum Library and Research Center, on Sept. 16.

The event consists of a silent auction, dinner and live auction. Elk, salmon, clams and oysters are amongst the items served at this traditional dinner. Native American dishes and beverages are also sampled, including black moss pudding, camas, wild carrots, various berry juices and teas, fish head and elk stews, fiddleheads and sea asparagus.

The art available for sale is created by local tribal people and Salish artists. The mediums vary but have previously included anything from contemporary blown glass to wood, leather, baskets, prints and regalia. Proceeds will benefit the museum in their continued efforts to educate people about Indigenous Squaxin Island culture and history. Doors open at 4:30 PM at the Skookum Creek Events Center in the Little Creek Casino Resort in Kamilche. Tickets will be available online. For more information about the event, you can contact the museum by calling (360) 432-3839.

photo: Aryonna Willoughby

Garden Tending your own (sea)

Zachary Hansen | South Sound Mariculture

The sky was egg blue and large pillow-like clouds reflected the sunlight down on the water. I was loading oyster bushels into the boat—Hammersley Inlet shimmered and the wind was cool and the water along the shore had not been disturbed by waves or swell so you could see the seaweeds and the crabs and the oysters. Their view was distorted by the water’s rippled surface but the sunlight brought out the pinks of starfish and the greens of the algae, the bay was clear today. The tide had turned and it began to cover the warm sand and its dried surface. The tide is a blessing and a curse, it tells us when work on the beach begins and when it ends.

The work was over for the day. I loaded the oysters and took the boat to the dock and tied the oyster bags with rope, hanging them several feet under the surface to keep them in cool water. This is a safe farm practice for product harvested for the raw market and it helps lessen the mortality of the shellfish. After tying off market sacks of oysters and clams I started to clean up the dock and I rinsed the boat and checked to see the anchor lines of the dock were in good condition.

A local osprey chirped near the shore— it was flying from a nest near the farm, it often dives on fish harbored amongst the oyster racks—and an older couple walked along the beach. The sound of outboard engines, ospreys, and voices travels well on the water and I could hear the couples’ conversation.

A natural set of native Olympias amongst the tunicates on the mussel lines.

They stopped on their walk in the middle of my family’s beach and commented something like ‘I really don’t like any of this, it ruins the entire beach.’

She gestured towards my father’s tumble farm, a somewhat unimpressive structure of pipe and mesh bags that float with the incoming tides and fall with the outgoing ones. The couple stared at the farm for a moment, expressing their dislike for its aesthetic, and continued their walk. I was not far from them and I am sure they saw me, so I considered raising my voice to start a conversation.

I wanted to explain to them—while they stood on my property and showed disrespect to it and to my way of life—why this ‘ugly’ farm is important. I wanted to tell them how I had built this farm with my father, that over the years we have changed its design and the way we farm shellfish. Creating new methods to improve the oysters we sell, increase our seed volume and density, and make shellfish farming less labor intensive. I wanted to ask them where they were from, and if they ever worked in aquaculture. I wanted to know if they ate shellfish, specifically oysters. I stopped myself and realized their impudent, uninformed preconception of the way something looks allowed them the audacity to pronounce, while occupying the owner’s land whom they insult, their opinion. I shrugged off the comment and went back to work.

That couple continued their walk down the beach and they left with their words, but the false preconceptions they have on aquaculture is carried on in their innate ability to speak where they have no place speaking—to vote where they have no right voting.

My family’s shellfish farm is in front of my home, and we act on our right as property owners to cultivate the sea.

We tend the soil for clams and cultivate the gravel and sand and clay to stop the beds from fallowing. We build submersible vineyards of rope and pipe and we wait patiently for the oysters in the spring to ripen, shucking them straight from the grow bag and tasting the merroir. A respected farmer told me they are like grapes of the sea.

These people who walk our beaches and take a yearly boat ride down the inlet will scoff at the barnacle covered farms, but they have it wrong. Someone worked during the frigid winter tides, their fingers numb and their gloves icy. Someone sweated during the middle of the heat wave trying to save the harvest from the summer lows, scrapping barnacles and repairing brackets. These ugly, unnatural creations are hard fought for.

Perhaps opponents to mariculture should realize there is more to a pristine waterway than a bare, muddy beach; a beach that lacks biodiversity and habitat, where the mud is black and slick and smells like rot.

Oyster and clam farmers of the South Sound are your best advocates for the environment. Clean water and sustainability, two ideals often dominated by virtue signaling environmentalists, are values farmers hold dear for their own self-interest. Polluted water kills shellfish, it sickens the customers, and it closes harvest areas. Sustainability requires the industry to be wary of poor business practices and it ensures we have a future for our way of life.

Consider the morality of the stance you make when asserting your values over another’s way of life. Take away a man’s work and business because you think a tumble farm ruins nature; tell him he is unnecessary while you dine on steamer clams and slurp raw oysters with your twenty dollar glass of wine; explain to him that the automation of a floating farm in Oakland Bay is bad for local jobs (the man should not innovate but should stay in the mud on his knees, going home to a broken back and a sunburned neck).

Remember, you know better than these farmers. Your waterfront deck offers you a heightened understanding over their lives. You’ve spent so much time watching them work. As you cry that profit hungry corporations are killing nature and soiling its virginity, perhaps you should also demolish your house on the beach and plant your property in salal and trees. Farmers are profit hungry and their own interests are their highest concern, but just as a cattle farmer defends his land from development and his rivers

from pollution and his herd from wolves, the shellfish farmer cleans up his beach of garbage, advocates against the dumping of waste water, and grows a sustainable food source.

Do not treat the men and woman and companies in this industry as lesser. Go to an oyster farm and see the structures teaming with life. See the habitat mussels create with their long lines of sponges and crabs and perch and watch the harbor seals bob between floating oyster bags, hunting for fish feeding in the shade of the farm. The marine ecosystem is vaster than our imagination, and our presence as farmers—although substantial to our lives and community—is laughable to that old soul of the Pacific Northwest.

Taste the tender meat of a Pacific and steam Manilas in lemongrass and wine and dine on the Northwest’s prime bounty.

I don’t want to force an oyster farm on anyone. Do what you wish with your waterfront, tend your own garden, and respect the lives that toil a different than your own.

Fall is shellfish season –

MEET OUR FARMERS

You’ve heard it before – those dang months with the “r.” Well, technically local oyster farmers don’t agree, bivalves have a much longer season, Some of the best shucks are in May – but there is something to be said for a fall or spring oyster over a “peak of the summer” one. That’s why fall IS the perfect time to follow the shellfish trail and visit local farms that grow the food you love. Let’s meet a few local growers that wake up on the night tides to deliver you the perfect oyster, clam or geoduck.

Chelsea Farms & Olympia Oyster Bar

Eld & Totten Inlet, Puget Sound | chelseafarms.net

222 CAPITOL WAY N, OLYMPIA

Chelsea Farms have made a priority of farming the Olympia Oyster, a native oyster to Olympia, that was on it’s way to extinction Visit their Oyster bar in downtown Olympia to get the ultimate local seafood experience!

Capital Oysters & Seattle Shellfish

South Puget Sound | capitaloyster.com

5th generation oyster farmer, Tom Bloomfield, tide tumbles Capital oysters that are suspended off the ground. The growing process results in a smooth, super deep shell as each oyster captures the essence of the beautiful ocean waters, free of sand and zero muddy tastes.

DeNotta Seafood

Hood Canal | denottaseafood.com

DeNotta harvests their oysters wild, off land owned by community members on the Hood Canal. This approach offers consumers not only the freshest oysters, but also the knowledge that you are part of a new perspective on seafood harvesting. The owners of the land are also the stewards of their beaches as it is in their best interest to have a healthy shoreline.

Hama Hama Oyster Farm

Hood Canal | hamahamaoyster.com

35846 US-101, Lilliwaup, WA 98555

This high energy destination serves oysters with an ever changing menu of seasonal local ingredients. Purchase a variety of local products including smoked salmon and crab. Hama Hama is a 5th generation family farm celebrated 100 years in 2022!

Taylor Shellfish

Puget Sound locations | taylorshellfishfarms.com

South Puget Sound and British Columbia

Stop in at Taylor Shellfish’s headquarters and visit their market near Shelton. Taylor’s specialties include the Kumamoto (sweet fruity flavor) and the Virginica (Crisp, briny, and buttery). The company has been farming oysters on Puget Sound since the 1890’s.

Oysterville Sea Farms

Willipa Bay | willapawild.com

34300 1st St, Oysterville

Dining room, retail oyster sales as well as locally sourced gifts. The Gold Rush (1849) drew significant numbers of settlers to Oysterville. Gold miners spent their gold on Willapa Bay oysters. Schooners with oysters to be shipped to San Francisco. Farm store open Thursday through Sunday.

Olympic Oyster Co. & Mike's Beach Resort

Hood Canal | olympicoysterco.com

38470 N US Highway 101, Lilliwaup, Third-generation farmers, Matthew and Sara are serious about producing some award winning oysters on site for market and available at restaurants. Guests staying on the active farm (aka Mike’s Beach Resort) stay in waterfront cabins and rooms, with view of the canal and have first dibs on some of the freshest oysters on the fjord!

The Fjord Oyster Bank Sea Nymph Oysters

Hoodsport & Hammersley | southsoundoysters.com 24341 N Hwy 101 Hoodsport | (360) 877-2102

For the last decade and a half the Hansen family has been raising oysters and clams on South Puget Sound's nutrient rich waterway, Hammersley Inlet. Through a tumble bag and a bag to beach process these oysters have distinct merrior as well as shape profiles resulting from their growth process despite being in the geographic. The tumble bag, Hemingways have a sweet cucumber finish while the beach finished Sea Nymphs have a kelpy taste. Hemingway Sweets roll in deeper water and have a deep cup, sweet flavor and a full-body crunch. Hemingways (coined from Ernest Heminway's famous oyster quote) as well as Sea Nymphs, are available for raw and grilled preparation at the Fjord Oyster Bank.

So when it comes to a month with an "r" in it, this is a good rule of thumb if you do not have access to Department of Health of Fish & Wildlife reporting resources – however, if you are ever unsure, know that local farmers are constantly testing their waters and product and strive to provide the freshest and safest product to their customers. For additional details visit Shellfishtrail.org.

2023 OYSTERFEST

October 7 & 8

10 AM – 6 PM Saturday

10 AM – 5 PM Sunday

SATURDAY: Admission $10

(Children 6 and under FREE)

SUNDAY: Family and Military Day

Admission $10; Active Military $5

(Children 12 and under FREE)

ATTENDING BOTH DAYS?

Save by purchasing a TWO-DAY ticket for just $16.00!

FREE SHUTTLE SERVICE

OYSTERFEST |

7-8 SHELTON WA

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 sub-tidal 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 sub-tidal 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 sub-tidal zone (extreme low tides).

Forage on Washington’s Wild Side.

Mason County’s saltwater bays and inlets along Hood Canal and South Puget Sound are renown for some of the tastiest and freshest bivalves in the Northwest. Visit for the pristine waters, open wilderness and public beaches stocked annually for families to enjoy!

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.

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

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.

OYSTERFEST

Traditionally held in October at Shelton Airport, the two day festival features seafood delicacies prepared by local non-profits as well as the Northwest Oyster Shucking Championship & live music.

WALKER PARK

Beach access, playground, restrooms, picnic shelter basketball court. Olympic Hwy to Arcadia Rd, from Rd take Left on Walker Park Rd, Park is on right. No shellfish harvest. No passes required.

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.

CREEK

beach when tide is out, obey signs. Excellent oyster beach. for swimming in summer. from Eagle Creek 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

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.

Do not harvest in areas with pollution closures. Ask your doctor before eating raw shellfish if you have any concerns about allergies, are taking medications, or have a weakened immune system (such as cancer, liver disease, or HIV). Shellfish are a great and healthy food.

Avoid illness by following the 3 C’s above and enjoy!

NORTH BAY

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.

DNR

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

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.

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

Burger Claim & More 24171 WA 3, Belfair (360) 277-5141

The Fjord Oyster Bank 24341 N US Hwy 101, Hoodsport (360) 877-2102

Hama Hama Oyster Saloon 35846 US-101, Lilliwaup (360) 877-5811

Hook & Fork 5101 E State Route 106, Union (360) 898-3500

View

Restaurant at Alderbrook 10 E Alderbrook Dr, Union (360) 898-2200

Smoking Mo’s 233 S. 1st St, Shelton (360) 462-0163

Spencer Lake Bar & Grill

1180 E Pickering Rd, Shelton (360) 426-2505

Squaxin Island Seafood Bar 91 West State Route 108, Shelton (360) 432-7120

Taylor Station 62 SE Lynch Rd, Shelton (360) 426-8501

Tides Family Restaurant 27061 US-101, Hoodsport (360) 877-8921

24/GRAPEVIEW, DNR beach clams and oysters open all year. Access by boat only.

HAMA HAMA OYSTER SALOON

New Scuba Company in Brinnon

Jade Scuba Adventures (based in Port Orchard) recently opened a second location behind Cove RV in Brinnon.

Jade Scuba offers beginner and advanced scuba dive certifications and is currently teaching open water to the Boy Scouts getting their merit badge at Camp Parsons. Camp Parsons is one of the oldest Boy Scout camps in the country and one of the few offering salt water scuba training.

Outdoor Market Opens in Brinnon

Starting Aug 6, Brinnon teacher, Lisa Johnston, & realtor husband, Wade Johnston, will be hosting an “outdoor market” (similar to a farmer’s market) at their lot next to the Brinnon General Store.

The couple plans to host the Sunday markets through August and September this year. If it is successful they plan on beginning earlier in the season in 2024.

For more information about this new market or to sign up for a vendor space, contact Lisa at (360)3019333.

Tiny Homes BIG Future Fundraiser

On Saturday, September 30, 6-8PM join in a fundraiser to supporting the Quixote Communities tiny house project in Shelton and help celebrate and raise funds for residents' BIG Futures!

The event will be hosted at 190 W. Sentry Dr, Shelton. Tickets are available at quixotecommunities.org.

Fri

HOURS: FRI - SUN 11 AM - 5 PM

New Brinnon—based business offering skippered charters on Hood Canal

Owner/ operators Katherine

O’Leary-Cole and Kelley

Bronaugh also offer shorter cruises focused on nature & sightseeing for kids (check out the live display from our remote operated vehicle that we drop below the waters at amazing dive sites for live images of fish up close without the dive suit!), day-long kayaking & shellfish cruises or custom charters.

This fall the company hosts its first “all-inclusive weekends” that target divers & their non-diving partners.

Enjoy exclusive events like “Evening with an Artist” in their private studio where a small groups have a private storytelling experience, tour artist’s studio and leave with custom artwork.

One evening will offer a “Riverside Retreat” on the Duckabush with views of Mt Jupiter and live music. Katherine and Kelley also look forward to offering many custom diving, kayaking, sightseeing & fine dining outings on their boat. For details on a cruise, visit olympicoasisdive.com

SEPTEMBER 16

Quilcene Fair & Parade

10AM TO 3PM

kids carnival - exhibit hall - Raffle vendors - Parade - car show @11am

free admission! All ages event!

Focusing on foodie-based dinner cruises, Pallin’ Around Charters offers charters around North Hood Canal for up to 6 guests on their restored 36' Grand Banks trawler. quilcenefair.org

Worthington knocks it Out of the Park

This summer brought record visitation to Worthington Park from across the country and even internationally. The Park hosted a wide range of events providing both grand and intimate settings in Quilcene.

The restored Victorian mansion hosted overnight stays throughout the summer and into the fall with nearly every weekend booked. Wedding celebrations took advantage of the entire park –encompassing the meadow, woods, outdoor theatre, historic pond and historic restoration.

The Quilcene Historical Museum underwent an extensive makeover with volunteers refreshing all exhibits and displays. Upgrades included signage, new exhibits, new storage and expanded space for the expanded collection.  While keeping the “ten acres of possibilities” beautifully manicured, new

Quilcene

ground improvements were introduced that included creating several annual flower beds and improving existing.

Major public events were staged for every month. The June gravel bike race, the Bon Jon Pass Out, returned for the third year, attracting a record number of participants from as far away as Florida. This competition is the largest of its kind in Jefferson County – taking advantage of Worthington Park’s proximity to the Olympic National Forest and trailheads.

The very popular Up, Up, Up Circus returned for its third year in July attracting hundreds of visitors who picnicked in the meadow catching both the free circus performance and evening outdoor movie “under the stars.”

Ice Cream treats and refreshments were enjoyed by attendees including what seemed to be an endless supply of free popcorn.

8/11 – 14th Annual Tasting Gala

9/16 – Quilcene Fair and Parade

9/17 – Oyster Races

10/7 – Quilcene Fiber Festival

On Friday, August 11, is the well received 14th annual Tasting Gala. The theme this year is “Here Comes the Sun” and will feature music of the 60’s and 70’s.

The Oyster Races half marathon, 10K and 5K will return for its eleventh year on Sunday, September 17. Registration for these races is tracking to make it the biggest yet.

Last but not least, October 7, the very popular Quilcene Fiber Festival returns to the park featuring sheep dog demonstrations, sheep shearing, weaving, spinning, knitting, felting, and traditional music and storytelling. Fiber artists from across the Peninsula will be offering their creations in the restored mansion and across the entire park.

For additional information on scheduling your own private celebration or retreat – or attending public events visit worthingtonparkquilcene.org.

Fall into the season for SCUBA

While the WA slopes are a ways from a snowy blanket, the waterways of Puget Sound are always open to your adventures. As the temperature drops, water visibility rises. With glacial formation of sharp deep cliffs and a till strewn bottom, the fjord offers unique opportunities to check out dive spots accessed easily from the shore.

Pull over on Hwy 101, don your gear, and within minutes, you are in the water. So convenient, you can dive and be seated for lunch in Hoodsport by noon. Schools of ancient cod and nudibranchs, the famous giant Pacific octopus and the snaggle toothed, but clever, wolf eels are just a few of the highlights of the descent.

In Hoodsport stop by YSS Dive, the local dive shop located next to the public dock in town for air, gear and advice. They also offer classes for beginners and advanced courses for seasoned divers. Along with a new dive charter in Brinnon, Pallin' Around Charters, YSS Dive now offers two charter boats that can be reserved.

Stay a while

Local lodging around Hoodsport also caters to the scuba crowd. A couple of our favorites are Mike's Beach Resort, Glen Ayr Resort, Sunrise Resort & Motel, and the Waterfront at Potlatch. Mike's is a perennial favorite with easy access to the dive locations right in their front yard. Glen Ayr has heated dive locker and a gear cleaning station and their dock offers moorage and impromptu dives.

Eat Locally

Many of the vacation rental cabins in this area have kitchens but if you want breakfast out we suggest hitting the Tides Restaurant – quick and friendly, with loaded plates.

Lunch and dinner, or even a quick espresso on the way to and from the dive – stop by our Fjord Oyster Bank café located just north of town. You can also pick up the latest copy (or past copies of the Fjord).

Another great spot for local oyster is Hama Hama Oyster Co. Aim for a table in one of their quirky waterfront A-frames and try the oysters and clams (and the crab cakes). El Puerto de Angeles located in Hoodsport next to YSS Dive also has good food and great patio views of the Canal.

Popular Fjord Dives

Although parking is limited at Octopus Hole, this wall site is accessed from shore and appropriate for all experience levels. Bring a flashlight, there are plenty of friendly octopus and wolf eels. This is a protected site so no disturbing inhabitants (and no taking the bottles that the eightlegged creatures like to hide in).

The best dive near Hoodsport is Sund Rock Marine Preserve. Privately held, the site is managed by the Sund family. Entry fee includes dive beach entry, freshwater rinse and warm shower, picnic area, and parking. Reserve at sundrock.com and fill out a request for a day and time to dive during the week.

Outside of Lilliwaup, just to the South of Mike’s Beach Resort, is Flag Pole Point.

More comfortably accessed by boat, you can free swim to it also. This site consists of a series of rock formations (the knuckle), rising like a range of mountains from the ocean floor. Since this formation is farther out and exposed to currents, this site often has excellent visibility. Ling cod lay their eggs at this protected site, and there are resident wolf eel and octopus populations. Since the rise of “the knuckle” is rapid, the site can be difficult to locate.

South of Hoodsport lies Potlatch Park. While diving at Potlatch is less dramatic, if you are just getting your flippers wet, this is a good place to start out. This shore diving spot is easy to get to, has showers to wash off gear, and it is a great place to get comfortable with equipment and techniques. To find out more about diving locations and links to services, visit Mason County's tourism resource, explorehoodcanal.com.

Glen Ayr overlooking Hood Canal (garesort.com); below, Fjord Oyster Bank (tracingthefjord.com)

Olympic Peninsula Edible PLANT & MUSHROOM TOURS

The way climbs a little hump before making a gradual descent toward the river. While the surrounding forest can be dark at times, come spring hundreds of trilliums line the way adding whites, pinks, and purples to the emerald landscape.

Professional forager, Jerry Novak, is once again offering educational tours in collaboration with Hood Canal Adventures near Brinnon. Novak guides guests on a walk through meadow, wetland, forest, and riparian habitats in search of edible and medicinal plants, mushrooms and lichens. His current tours include identification, uses, benefits, and preparation tips.

Wild Mushrooms of the Olympic Peninsula – Field Tour

Oct 6, 7, 14, 15, 20-22, 28 & 29; Nov 3-5, 11, 12, 17-19, 25 & 26; Dec 1-3, 9 & 10. 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM Learn about edible and non-edible mushrooms, foraging skills, sustainable harvesting and how to make a spore print!

Forest Edibles

Aug 12 & 19; Sept 2 & 16; Oct 1 & 8 10:30 AM –1:00 PM. Your knowledgeable guide, Novak, will take you on a 2.5 hour walk in search of the season’s wild edible and medicinal plants, mushrooms and lichen found on the Olympic Peninsula.

Soon the Duckabush River’s roar becomes more audible. During the wetter months it is quite loud. You are almost there. The trail makes a short steep drop and emerges along the banks of the Duckabush. A short distance beyond reach the famed fishing spot. Here the river crashes and thunders through a narrow rocky chasm to a deep pool. Frothy gurgling waters crash up against the narrow cleft. Be sure to keep children and dogs nearby while admiring this landmark.

When the sun is shining, its ray reach this spot, providing a little warmth and light and providing a nice contrast to the dark and damp surrounding forest.

Your guide will teach you identification, uses, benefits, and preparation tips on the wonderful gifts nature provides that we often walk past every day. A delicious tea or other wild edible dish will be prepared for you with what we find along the way!

Land Agency Contact: Olympic National Forest, Hood Canal Ranger District, Quilcene, (360) 765-2200, www.fs.usda. gov/olympic; and Olympic National Park, Wilderness Information Center, (360)565-3100, nps.gov/olym

Recommended Guidebook: Day Hiking

Olympic Peninsula 2nd edition (Romano, Mountaineers Books)

Tours leave from Hood Canal Adventures’ Store / Office: 306146 Hwy 101 N, in Brinnon. Transportation into the forest is provided. Dog and kid friendly.

Book your tour online at hoodcanaladventures.com.

SEA NYMPH Oysters & Clams

Family-owned Verles Celebrates 75 Years in Business

This year Verles Sporting Goods has been celebrating an important milestone all summer long with celebrations, deals and events at their store so the community and customers could also share this special occasion with them.

Verles has emerged into the full-service outdoor equipment and boat retailer from a small selection of hooks and leaders in 1948.

State Parks

2023 Free Days

Sept. 23 National Public Lands Day

Oct. 10 World Mental Health Day

Nov. 11 Veterans Day

Nov. 25 Autumn Day

Fjord

A fjord is formed when a glacier retreats, carving a U-shaped valley that the sea fills. Formed over 13,000 years ago, Hood Canal is not a canal, as defined by Captain Vancouver in 1792, but in fact the only fjord in the lower 48 states. Averaging 150' deep, Hood Canal is as deep as 600' in parts with areas on the bottom covered by glacial till.

"Dad cashed in his life insurance policy to buy more tackle, " recollects son, Arnie, when he speaks of the early days when the original store was located in his parents' garage, "this was spread over two 4’ X 8’ peg boards. To grow the business they were open 7 days a week and 24 hours. My Mom quit her job and ran the store during the day until my Dad came home from work."

As business grew Verle added a larger selection of fishing tackle. He added hunting, camping, boating & athletic supplies. The next move was purchase small boats up to 14’ and small out-

board motors under 25hp for pickups or trailers."I bought the business from my folks in 1980. To honor my Dad the business name has remained the same all these years," continued Arnie.

Verles has had a variety of locations as the family and the business grew. In 1999 they designed "what they really needed," and were able to move to the 3+ acre present location.

Verle's prides themselves on working hard to provide exceptional customer service with a knowledgeable staff. "We don’t take our customers for granted," asserts Arnie, "our customers have meant everything to our business since the beginning and we hope to see the business continue into the foreseeable future."

THINGS TO DO FALLS TO FISHING

45

MAP/LODGING SHELTON & KAMILCHE

48

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.

MAP/LODGING HOOD CANAL AREA

49-55

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 GO CHASING WATERFALLS

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

HIGH STEEL BRIDGE

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

MOTORSPORTS

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

TRAILS & WALKS

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

TAKE A LEAP

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

TASTING YOUR WAY AROUND THE CANAL & SOUND

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

PICK A PEAK

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

RIDE THE RAILS

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

vancecreekrailriders.com

FISHING

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

BIKING

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

PHOTO: TOBY TAHJA-SYRETT

UP YOUR GOLF GAME

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

ALDERBROOK GOLF (360) 898-2560 | Union alderbrookgolf.com

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

LAKE CUSHMAN GOLF (360) 877-5505 | Hoodsport lakecushmangolfcourse.com

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

LAKE LIMERICK GOLF (360) 426-6290 | Shelton lakelimerick.com

The gentle hills make this a challenging round of golf. Restaurant & pro shop.

LAKELAND VILLAGE (360) 275-6100 | Allyn lakelandliving.com

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

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

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

SHELTON DISC GOLF

masoncountydiscgolf.com

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

CRUISE THE HOOD

Explore

SCUBA DIVING

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

FOR THE BIRDS

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

ON THE WATER

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

SHELTON

CELEBRATING A RICH TIMBER HISTORY

SHELTON is the westernmost city on Puget Sound. Featuring a bustling heritage core, its landscape is marked by colossal forests which led to a title of “Christmas Tree Capital of the World.” Dubbed CHRISTMASTOWN, USA, since 1962, Shelton successfully won the Guinness World Record for Most Lit Christmas Trees in 2019.

YOUR RACE ON

FOREST ROOTS

Explore the Shelton Historical Museum with displays on early life on Puget Sound, Hood Canal, and working in the woods and stick around for the Mason County Forest Festival Paul Bunyan Parade, June 1-4. masoncountyforestfestival.com

LakeCushman

ALLYN

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

POTLATCH STATE PARK

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

DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED

HUNTER FARMS

Farm Market, seasonal events; Visitor Center

HARSTINE ISLAND TRAIL

300 acres to explore EASY 1.5 mile, beach DISCOVER PASS

SHELTON VISITOR CENTER

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

ISABELLA LAKE TRAILS

EASY 2.5 mile loop, rolling meadows

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

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

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

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

HOPE ISLAND STATE PARK

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

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

THE KENNEDY CREEK SALMON TRAIL

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

TOPOGRAPHY: flat, viewing platforms, interpretive signs

TO GO: Hwy 101, Old Olympic Hwy; weekends, seasonally. NO FEE/ PASS

STAIRCASE | OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK

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

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

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

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

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

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

LOWER LENA LAKE TRAIL

Well maintained popular trail leads to a small lake

MODERATE TO DIFFICULT 3 mile climb,switchbacks

TO GO: Hwy 101 at Hamma Hamma Recreation Area

UPPER LENA LAKE TRAIL

Steep with unstable bed; camping.

MODERATE TO DIFFICULT 4.3 mile climb

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

TO GO: Same as Lower Lena Lake Trail above.

WILDERNESS PERMIT FOR CAMPING

NW FOREST PASS FOR PARKING

BIG CREEK

Great pack-in picnic destination with pools and footbridges.

MODERATE 4 miles

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

NW FOREST PASS

HAMA HAMA STORE

Beach access & parking, seasonal outdoor Oyster Saloon and fresh seafood market.

EAGLE CREEK

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

HAMMA HAMMA

LIVING LEGACY TRAIL

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

EASY TO MODERATE 1.5 mile loop.

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

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

WILDERNESS PERMIT REQUIRED FOR CAMPING

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

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

SERVICES AT PORT OF DEWATTO CAMPGROUND

TAHUYA STATE FOREST

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

TOPOGRAPHY deep woods

TO GO: Hwy 300/Belfair

Tahuya Rd, 1.1 mile.

DISCOVER PASS

MENARD’S LANDING

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

HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER

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

PASSES FOR PURCHASE

SkokomishValleyRd

VISITOR CENTER/ BELFAIR LICENSING

TO GO: On Hwy 3 in Belfair

PASSES FOR PURCHASE Park/ vehicle/vessel/fishing/hunting northmasonchamber.com

DALBY

WATERWHEEL

TO GO: SR#106

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:

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

ALLYN/

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

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

ITINERARY 4: ALLYN/GRAPEVIEW LOOP A CUT ABOVE

The largest chainsaw carving outlet, BEAR IN A is a great place to explore this unique art. They also teach chainsaw carving.

WATERFRONT WANDERINGS

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

GRAPE VIEWS

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

BEACH WALK

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

ITINERARY 5: BELFAIR AREA

TAKE A WALK ON BOARDWALK

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

SALMON STRONG

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

VISITOR INFORMATION & RESOURCES

HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER

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

BELFAIR VISITOR CENTER

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

UNION VISITOR INFORMATION

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

SHELTON CHAMBER

VISITOR CENTER

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

Open 8 AM - 5 PM | Monday through Friday

MASON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

427 W. Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA

11 AM - 4 PM | Tuesday through Saturday

TAKE TO THE TRAILS

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

FJORD WELCOME CENTER

24341 N US Hwy 101, Hoodsport, WA

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

RIDE FREE IN MASON COUNTY

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

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK

nps.gov

Live from the

shellpile

It’s a late July afternoon, and Seth Ryan Unger is sitting just a few minutes’ walk from the shimmering water of Hood Canal, sipping on a pint of cider. His sunglasses reflect a gravel yard, strewn with crushed oyster shells, surrounded by picnic tables and small wooden A-frames. He’s outside of the Oyster Saloon, Hama Hama Oyster's restaurant and farm store. The business is hosting a small crowd of about 25 guests — a modest number for the typically jam-packed destination that recently introduced an online reservation system to help combat the hecticness of its weekend hours. It’s only a Thursday – the calm before the storm.

After a few moments, the relaxed ambiance is punctuated by a familiar acoustic melody. Unger, finishes his cider and leans into the microphone and begins singing a cover of John Mellencamp’s “Ain’t That America” to conversing onlookers.

The serene summer scene marks the fourth show of Hama Hama’s summer concert series: Live From the Shell Pile. Every Thursday, through August 31

-- from 3 to 6 PM -- a different band is scheduled to perform at the Oyster Saloon. On those days, the restaurant serves a limited menu from 2 – 7 PM. The performances are all-ages, and no reservation or cover fee is required. Catch a show before the summer ends!

8/10 – Bread & Gravy

Led by couple Jess and Stephanie Doenges, Bread & Gravy is self-described as “comfort music for the soul.”

Thursdays @ Hama Hama

8/10 – Bread & Gravy

8/17 – Seth Ryan Unger

8/24 – 3,000 Miles

8/31 – Anderson Lake Swamp Thing

The band's lineup includes Jason Taylor on bass and Jerry Gilleland on drums. Along with food served at the Oyster Saloon, this show has the potential to be a full meal!

ARTICLE & PHOTOS ARYONNA WILLOUGHBY

Through the Garden Gate: Veggies in Abundance

Saturday, February 25, 9:30 - 12 PM

Mason County Public Works, Shelton

Through The Garden Gate is offering both in person and zoom options for the workshops this year. See page 22.

Adult Prom Fire and Ice

8/17 –Seth Ryan Unger

Saturday, Feb 25, 6 -10 PM

1060 West Eells Hill Road, Shelton

Get dressed up and head to the Ridge to support our first responders and this 21+ event featuring DJ Topflight mixing your favorite hits. $45/person.

Atomic Washington: Our Nuclear Past, Present, and Future

Sunday February 26, 1:30 - 3 PM

3371 E Harstine Is Road N, Shelton

Originally from Pennsylvania, Unger spent time in Los Angeles attending music school, plays easy listening acoustic covers from a variety of artists, including Tom Petty, Hozier, The Lumineers, Neon Trees and more. Unger claims to be a “replicator” more than a writer, but he executes it well.

8/24

– 3,000 Miles

Washington State’s role in the nuclear era ranges far beyond the construction, operation, and ongoing cleanup of the Hanford nuclear reservation. Drawing from history, science, and popular culture, author Steve Olson reveals the ways in which our state has been a pioneer in the atomic age.

MARCH

OFFSHORE: Culinary Adventure Tent at Alderbrook

Thur- Sat , Mar 2- 4, 6:30 PM

10 E Alderbrook Drive, Union

Be immersed in four courses of delicious locally sourced ingredients. alderbrookresort.com

Through the Garden Gate: Is a Victory Garden For You?

Saturday, March 4, 9:30 - 12 PM

Mason County Public Works, Shelton

3,000 Miles is exactly the kind of music you would imagine as your soundtrack along the Continental Divide Trail on a hike from Canada to Mexico. Anna Robinson and Emalee Hill crafted a haunting and beautiful sound with twists of blues and country on their transcontinental hiking tour that inspired the band. Based in Union, 3,000 Miles is now made up of a rotating cast of characters, which includes Skyla Kate and Pirate Nate, adding fiddles and flutes to the iconic sound.

Through The Garden Gate is offering both in person and zoom options for the workshops this year. See page 22.

8/31 – Anderson Lake Swamp Thing

Free day at WA State Parks

Thursday, March 9, all day

Celebrate the legacy of Billy Frank Junior's Birthday.

Through the Garden Gate: Native Bees a Buzzin'

Saturday, March 11, 9:30 - 12 PM

The duo, composed of Forest Beutel and Joe Fulton, have been bringing fiery bluegrass to Hama Hama since 2018. Fueled by the delicious fish eking out a life in the toxic blue green algae waters of Anderson Lake, Beutel cycles between banjo, guitar, harmonica and percussion while Fulton lays into his fiddle. Catch swamp fever by listening to their Crawdad Holiday record on Spotify.

Mason County Public Works, Shelton n person and zoom options for the workshops this year. See page 22.

2023 Calendar

Hood Canal Improvement Club

Everyone is welcome to attend these events for opportunities to network, volunteer and improve our local communities.

September 5 – 5:30 – 7PM

WA State Department of Ecology

Status of septic land application and lagoon off Webb Hill Road in Union Union Fire Hall, Union

October 3 – 5:30 – 7PM

HCIC Chowder Cook-off

Local amateur and professional chefs

Union Fire Hall, Union

October 7 & 8 | OysterFest

November 7 – 5:30 – 7PM

Speaker Series – PUD #1

Updates on local utility company and the plans for the future.

Union Fire Hall, Union

December 1 & 2 – 10 am – 3 pm

HCIC Holiday Market (Friendraiser)

Local crafts and artisans

951 E Dalby Rd, Union

December 10 – Sunday – 1 – 4PM

Annual Christmas Party - The McReavy House – 10 E 2nd, Union Holiday music, delicious treats & cheer!

Co-hosted by Friends of McReavy House

HOODCANALIMPROVEMENTCLUB.ORG

Vietnam Era Veterans Honored

Local Vietnam veterans were honored for their service at a ceremony hosted by Rep. Derek Kilmer in Shelton on August 4. Veterans, family and community members packed into the Memorial Hall to be presented with lapel pins as a way to give thanks for their service and sacrifices.

The pins were provided by the USA Vietnam War Commemoration. On the back they read, “A grateful nation thanks and honors you.” Before the pinning, Kilmer, who represents the WA 6th District, spoke to the veterans.

“From 1956 through 1975, 2.7 million Americans served in some of the most severe conditions in the history of American warfare, and unfortunately, when many of our service members came home, they didn't get the gratitude they deserved,” Kilmer said. “Events like this one today are an attempt in a small way to correct that.”

the highest per-capita percentage of veterans in the country, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs. In Washington, there are projected to be 187,590 Vietnam era veterans living in the state.

“I will tell you, I think gratitude needs to come with not just words, [but] it needs to come with actions, too,” Kilmer said.

MARKET ON THEHILL

HOODSPORT'S visit & support local artists, crafters and more Live music & food!

2nd & 4th Saturday | 9-3 PM (June-September)

St Germain Church 600 N. Lake Cushman Road

Hoodsport, WA

After speaking, Kilmer presented the veterans with pins and thanked each one individually. Shelton Mayor Eric Onisko issued certificates. County Commissioners Kevin Shutty and Sharon Trask called veterans’ names and the respective branches they served in. Over 80 veterans and family members of veterans were recognized.

The Olympic Peninsula is estimated to be home to 15,000 veterans,

Kilmer is a proponent of the PACT Act, a bill Congress passed last year that expands VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances including, but not limited to, Agent Orange, radiation, burn pit smoke and other hazards. The bill automatically connects veterans’ service with certain health conditions, meaning that veterans don’t have to prove their service caused their condition. They only need to meet the listed service requirements.

Kilmer implored veterans to apply or register an “intent to file” on the VA’s website as quickly as possible.

Story: Aryonna Willoughby

Erin Ranney has worn a multitude of hats in her professional life: trained guide and naturalist, commercial fisherwoman, ecology technician, wildlife cinematographer and deep-sea video engineer — each experience connected by her passion for exploring wild spaces. Recently, reporter Jeff Slakey sat down with Ranney to discuss her life, work, and connection to the Shelton community.

ERIN Ranney Local cinematographer

Ranney is a world-renowned wildlife cinematographer whose work has been featured on BBC, PBS, Smithsonian, Disney+ and National Geographic. Ranney’s career has taken her across the globe and into the deep sea, from Africa to sub-Antarctic islands, and numerous destinations in between. Her roots, however, can be traced all the way back to the small city of Shelton.

Ranney was born in Alaska, but at a young age, she and her family moved to Shelton. After graduating from Shelton High School, Ranney attended Washington State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in wildlife ecology. During college, Ranney worked as a field technician where she swapped her familiarity with the Olympic National Park for another, more exotic location, in the northeast rainforests of Madagascar. There, Ranney spent three months in the tropical jungles researching lemurs. Between studying the population dynamic and

routes of the primates, Ranney started exploring something else: photography. With the lemurs and lush Madagascan rainforest as her subjects, Ranney quickly became enamored with wildlife photography.

“That was kind of my first big camera moment with wildlife, and I just really fell in love with it.” After finishing up her work, Ranney headed back home to Shelton and shared the photos she

took in Madagascar with the students in her mom’s class at Mountain View Elementary.

“The kids got so excited they checked out all the books about Madagascar,” Ranney said. That experience led Ranney to an epiphany.“That was kind of my ‘aha moment’ of [realizing] you could use images to get kids excited about science,” Ranney said. “Whereas, if I was working on papers, not

photo: Stephen Matter

ARTICLE JEFF SLAKEY ARYONNA WILLOUGHBY

View

DESIGN MATTERS

so many people might see those.” It was a special moment for Ranney, who grew up in Shelton and attended they same elementary school.

“For [the students], it was like someone who sat in that same [room] was telling them about their adventure to Madagascar. So, I think they were able to connect with it and kind of feel like ‘I can do that, too.’”

Ranney received her master’s in wildlife documentary production in England. Afterward, she kickstarted her career as an intern with Mark Emery films, and later, assisted National Geographic documentary crews. Since then, she’s garnered approximately 19 production credits under her belt.

For the past two-and-a-half years, Ranney has stayed busy filming all over the world for a National Geographic/ Disney+ project about matriarchal societies in wildlife. The series should come out in early 2024, but the details beyond that remain secretive. “These things take a very long time to come out,” Ranney admitted. “I can't say too much about it because I’m under quite a few [non-disclosure agreements].”

In addition to filming on land, Ranney also has experience exploring the deep sea. In 2017, Ranney started as an intern for the E/V Nautilus video engineering program. Ranney’s role included operating the

remote cameras attached to the ocean exploration vessel, Nautilus. Past expeditions of Ranney’s examined the Pescadero Basin Vents, home to the deepest high-temperature hydrothermal vents in the Pacific Ocean, ancient underwater volcanoes near Hawaii, and a prolific octopus habitat off the California coast, known as “octopus garden.”

When Ranney isn’t globe trotting to document wildlife, she gives back to the local community by hosting photography presentations and workshops, all of which are free. She also still finds time every so often to visit with her mom’s elementary school classes, offering presentations for the children.

Ranney’s life has taken her from being just a small-town kid with a craving for adventure to a world-renowned wildlife cinematographer. But no matter how large and diverse the world or Ranney’s career may seem at times, she’s humbly reminded of how all the people, places and experiences are connected in their own unique ways.

“The world is so big, but it's also so small… even just the people you run into,” Ranney said. “I've run into people who know my aunt and uncle in Alaska.”

Jeff Slakey’s full interview with Erin Ranney can be found online, at tracingthefjord.com/stories/erin-ranney-wildlife-cinematographer.

photo: Olly Jelley

25 SCENIC WATERFALLS

25 SCENIC WATERFALLS

25 SCENIC WATERFALLS

25 SCENIC WATERFALLS

Hood Canal to the Pacific Coast & points between

Hood Canal to the Pacific Coast & points between

Hood Canal to the Pacific Coast & points between

Hood Canal to the Pacific Coast & points between

Receiving hundreds of inches of rain annually, the Hoh, Quinault and Queets Rainforests are located on the coastal foothills of the Olympics. With 21 feet of snow or rain at its peaks, it’s no wonder there is a myriad of waterfalls lacing the area. Explore this sampling curated by celebrated guidebook author and avid hiker, Craig Romano. Some are small, secret, and unique, others are popular but magnificent. All are worth the journey!

Receiving hundreds of inches of rain annually, the Hoh, Quinault and Queets Rainforests are located on the coastal foothills of the Olympics. With 21 feet of snow or rain at its peaks, it’s no wonder there is a myriad of waterfalls lacing the area. Explore this sampling curated by celebrated guidebook author and avid hiker, Craig Romano. Some are small, secret, and unique, others are popular but magnificent. All are worth the journey!

9. Dosewallips Falls (9.0 MILE ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE)

9. Dosewallips Falls (9.0 MILE ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE)

Olympia & Hood Canal

Olympia & Hood Canal

1. Tumwater Falls Loop (1 MILE – EASY)

1. Tumwater Falls Loop (1 MILE – EASY)

Olympia | Exit #103 off of I-5 S to Deschutes Way

Olympia | Exit #103 off of I-5 S to Deschutes Way

Tumwater Falls Park, no pass required, kid/dog friendly Iconic landmark, multi-tiered showy falls separated by gorge.

Tumwater Falls Park, no pass required, kid/dog friendly

Iconic landmark, multi-tiered showy falls separated by gorge.

2. Kennedy Creek Falls (6.8 MILE RT – MODERATE)

2. Kennedy Creek Falls (6.8 MILE RT – MODERATE)

Brinnon | US 101 Milepost 306, Dosewallips Rd 9.7 miles to trail Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, dog-prohibited Spectacular 100’ waterfall previously had vehicle access but now to reach waterfall you must hike or mountain bike closed road.

Brinnon | US 101 Milepost 306, Dosewallips Rd 9.7 miles to trail

Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, dog-prohibited Spectacular 100’ waterfall previously had vehicle access but now to reach waterfall you must hike or mountain bike closed road.

10. Fallsview Falls (0.2 MILE ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

10. Fallsview Falls (0.2 MILE ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

Kamiliche | US 101 N, left at Old Olympic , mile to gate Forestry & WA DNR, no pass required, kid/dog friendly

Kamiliche | US 101 N, left at Old Olympic , mile to gate

Forestry & WA DNR, no pass required, kid/dog friendly

Descend to a grove of big trees — and the falls. Here Kennedy Creek tumbles over basalt flow.

Descend to a grove of big trees — and the falls. Here Kennedy Creek tumbles over basalt flow.

3. Vincent Creek Falls (ROAD ACCESS – EASY)

3. Vincent Creek Falls (ROAD ACCESS – EASY)

Skokomish Valley Rd; 5.6 miles to FR 23; 2.3 miles to FR 2340

Skokomish Valley Rd; 5.6 miles to FR 23; 2.3 miles to FR 2340

Olympic National Forest, no pass, caution: low guardrail

Arched truss 685’ High Steel Bridge (1929) spans 375’ and is the 14th highest bridge in USA. Falls drop 250’ over canyon.

Olympic National Forest, no pass, caution: low guardrail Arched truss 685’ High Steel Bridge (1929) spans 375’ and is the 14th highest bridge in USA. Falls drop 250’ over canyon.

4. Big Creek Cascades Loop (4.2 MILE – MODERATE)

4. Big Creek Cascades Loop (4.2 MILE – MODERATE)

Lake Cushman / Hoodsport | SR 119 for 9.3 miles to trail head

Lake Cushman / Hoodsport | SR 119 for 9.3 miles to trail head

Olympic National Forest, pass required, kid/dog-friendly

Olympic National Forest, pass required, kid/dog-friendly

Loop utilizes old logging roads, new trails and series of bridges constructed by volunteers that continue to improve this loop.

Loop utilizes old logging roads, new trails and series of bridges constructed by volunteers that continue to improve this loop.

5. Staircase Rapids Loop (2 MILE – EASY)

5. Staircase Rapids Loop (2 MILE – EASY)

Lake Cushman/Hoodsport | SR 119; FR 24 for 14.7 miles

Lake Cushman/Hoodsport | SR 119; FR 24 for 14.7 miles

Olympic National Park, pass required, kid-friendly, no pets Follow river to suspension bridge, cross river and complete loop on North Fork Skokomish River back to Ranger Station.

Olympic National Park, pass required, kid-friendly, no pets Follow river to suspension bridge, cross river and complete loop on North Fork Skokomish River back to Ranger Station.

6. Hamma Hamma Falls (ROAD ACCESS – EASY)

6. Hamma Hamma Falls (ROAD ACCESS – EASY)

Lilliwaup | FR 25 for 13.3 miles

Lilliwaup | FR 25 for 13.3 miles

Olympic National Forest, pass required, kid-friendly Bridge spans two-tiered falls (80’). Overhead view decent year round. On drive back, enjoy views of secondary falls along river.

Olympic National Forest, pass required, kid-friendly Bridge spans two-tiered falls (80’). Overhead view decent year round. On drive back, enjoy views of secondary falls along river.

7. Murhut Falls (1.6 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

7. Murhut Falls (1.6 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

Duckabush River Valley | FR 2510 6.3 miles, FR 2530, 1.3 miles

Duckabush River Valley | FR 2510 6.3 miles, FR 2530, 1.3 miles

Olympic National Forest, no pass required, kid/dog-friendly

Olympic National Forest, no pass required, kid/dog-friendly

Well-built trail to 130’ two-tiered waterfall. Pacific rhododendrons line the trail in May and June.

Well-built trail to 130’ two-tiered waterfall. Pacific rhododendrons line the trail in May and June.

8. Rocky Brook Falls (QUARTER MILE – EASY)

8. Rocky Brook Falls (QUARTER MILE – EASY)

Brinnon | Milepost 306 on US 101, Dosewallips Road 3 miles

Brinnon | Milepost 306 on US 101, Dosewallips Road 3 miles

Private, no pass, kid/dog-friendly - check for closures

Private, no pass, kid/dog-friendly - check for closures

Classic horsetail waterfall crashes more than 200’ from hanging valley. Summer, the cascade pool is a popular swimming hole.

Classic horsetail waterfall crashes more than 200’ from hanging valley. Summer, the cascade pool is a popular swimming hole.

Quilcene | US 101 at Falls View Campground. Trail in picnic area Olympic National Forest, pass required, kid/dog friendly, ADA Trail is ADA accessible to a falls cascading 100’. By late summer it trickles—but during the rainy season the falls put on a little show.

Quilcene | US 101 at Falls View Campground. Trail in picnic area Olympic National Forest, pass required, kid/dog friendly, ADA Trail is ADA accessible to a falls cascading 100’. By late summer it trickles—but during the rainy season the falls put on a little show.

Lake Crescent & Elwha River

Lake Crescent & Elwha River

11. Striped Peak Falls (2.2 MILE RT– MODERATE) Salt Creek County Park | SR 112 , 7.2 miles, R. @ Camp Hayden Rd Clallam County Parks and WA DNR, no pass, dog-friendly Small but location in remote cliff-enclosed sea cove is stunning.

11. Striped Peak Falls (2.2 MILE RT– MODERATE)

Salt Creek County Park | SR 112 , 7.2 miles, R. @ Camp Hayden Rd Clallam County Parks and WA DNR, no pass, dog-friendly Small but location in remote cliff-enclosed sea cove is stunning.

12. Madison Creek Falls (0.2 MILE ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

12. Madison Creek Falls (0.2 MILE ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

Elwha River Valley | Olympic Hot Springs Rd 2.1 miles

Elwha River Valley | Olympic Hot Springs Rd 2.1 miles

Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, ADA, dog-friendly Short walk to mossy maple and cedar lined grotto. This path is one of the few within the national park that is open to leashed dogs.

Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, ADA, dog-friendly Short walk to mossy maple and cedar lined grotto. This path is one of the few within the national park that is open to leashed dogs.

13. Wolf Creek Falls (0.8 MILE ROUND-TRIP –MODERATE)

13. Wolf Creek Falls (0.8 MILE ROUND-TRIP –MODERATE)

Elwha River Valley | US 10, milepost 240, Olympic Hot Springs Rd, 4.0 miles, left onto dirt Whiskey Bend Rd, 4.2 miles to trail head Olympic National Park, pass required, dogs prohibited After a steep descent to river walk along the gravel bank of Wolf Creek to a fanning 25’ falls. Step back to see another tier above it.

Elwha River Valley | US 10, milepost 240, Olympic Hot Springs Rd, 4.0 miles, left onto dirt Whiskey Bend Rd, 4.2 miles to trail head Olympic National Park, pass required, dogs prohibited After a steep descent to river walk along the gravel bank of Wolf Creek to a fanning 25’ falls. Step back to see another tier above it.

14. Goblins Gate (3.6 MILES ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE)

14. Goblins Gate (3.6 MILES ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE)

Elwha River Valley | milepost 240, Olympic Hot Springs Rd, 4 miles onto dirt Whiskey Bend Rd, 4.5 miles to trail head ONP, pass required, kid friendly, dogs prohibited Hike to a Elwha River gorge to a series of rapids.

Elwha River Valley | milepost 240, Olympic Hot Springs Rd, 4 miles onto dirt Whiskey Bend Rd, 4.5 miles to trail head ONP, pass required, kid friendly, dogs prohibited Hike to a Elwha River gorge to a series of rapids.

15. Boulder Creek Falls (8.4 MILES ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE)

15. Boulder Creek Falls (8.4 MILES ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE)

Elwha Valley | Milepost 240, Olympic Hot Springs Rd, 10 miles Olympic National Park, pass required, dogs prohibited A series of cascades in valley with luxuriant old-growth forest. The hike is an all-day event but is remoter than nearby popular sites.

Elwha Valley | Milepost 240, Olympic Hot Springs Rd, 10 miles Olympic National Park, pass required, dogs prohibited A series of cascades in valley with luxuriant old-growth forest. The hike is an all-day event but is remoter than nearby popular sites.

Thank you.

Waterfall project made possible with Mason County Lodging Tax funding. explorehoodcanal.com

Thank you. Waterfall project made possible with Mason County Lodging Tax funding. explorehoodcanal.com

®2020 | Information and images courtesy of Craig Romano. Craig has written more than 20 guidebooks including Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula 2nd Edition www.waterfalltrail.org

®2020 | Information and images courtesy of Craig Romano. Craig has written more than 20 guidebooks including Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula 2nd Edition www.waterfalltrail.org

16. Marymere Falls (1.8 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

16. Marymere Falls (1.8 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

Lake Crescent | milepost 228, right at Lake Crescent Lodge

Lake Crescent | milepost 228, right at Lake Crescent Lodge

Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, dogs prohibited A popular waterfall on the Olympic Peninsula, if it was harder to reach, this 90’ horsetail cascade would still be well-visited.

Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, dogs prohibited A popular waterfall on the Olympic Peninsula, if it was harder to reach, this 90’ horsetail cascade would still be well-visited.

17. Sol Duc Falls (1.6 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

17. Sol Duc Falls (1.6 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

Sol Duc River Valley | Sol Duc Hot Springs Road, 14 miles to trail Olympic National Park, pass required, kid-friendly, no dogs ONP’s most photographed waterfall. The falls tumble about 40’ into a tight slot and abruptly flow at a right angle into the gorge.

Sol Duc River Valley | Sol Duc Hot Springs Road, 14 miles to trail Olympic National Park, pass required, kid-friendly, no dogs ONP’s most photographed waterfall. The falls tumble about 40’ into a tight slot and abruptly flow at a right angle into the gorge.

Pacific Coast & Quinault

Pacific Coast & Quinault

18.Strawberry Bay Falls (3.6 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY

18.Strawberry Bay Falls (3.6 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY

Olympic Coast | SR 110 to Quillayute Prairie, 3.8 miles to trail Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, dogs prohibited Hike to Third Beach to witness this waterfall tumbling more than 100’ from a towering headland into the surf.

Olympic Coast | SR 110 to Quillayute Prairie, 3.8 miles to trail Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, dogs prohibited Hike to Third Beach to witness this waterfall tumbling more than 100’ from a towering headland into the surf.

For full descriptions on all these waterfalls including maps, updates and images, visit: WATERFALLTRAIL.ORG

For full descriptions on all these waterfalls including maps, updates and images, visit: WATERFALLTRAIL.ORG

Wynoochee River Valley

Wynoochee River Valley

23. Spoon Creek Falls (6 MILE ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE)

23. Spoon Creek Falls (6 MILE ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE)

Wynoochee Valley | FR 22 34 miles, FR 23 2.5 mile to trail

Wynoochee Valley | FR 22 34 miles, FR 23 2.5 mile to trail

Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid-friendly, dog friendly 93’ falls plunge into a box canyon. Trail goes through old-growth forest to a viewpoint of falls dropping into the gorge.

Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid-friendly, dog friendly 93’ falls plunge into a box canyon. Trail goes through old-growth forest to a viewpoint of falls dropping into the gorge.

24. Maidenhair Falls (1 MILE ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

24. Maidenhair Falls (1 MILE ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

Wynoochee Valley | FR 22 34 miles, FR 2312 5.8 miles, FR 2385

Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid-friendly, dog friendly Overlooked by many due to its close proximity to Wynoochee Falls, this is a pleasant surprise in a quiet corner of the Olympics.

Wynoochee Valley | FR 22 34 miles, FR 2312 5.8 miles, FR 2385 Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid-friendly, dog friendly Overlooked by many due to its close proximity to Wynoochee Falls, this is a pleasant surprise in a quiet corner of the Olympics.

25. Porter Falls (1.6 MILE ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

25. Porter Falls (1.6 MILE ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

Porter Creek Rd, 2.9 miles B-0150 Rd, .5 mile, B-Line 0.9 mile

19. Mineral Creek Falls (5.0 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

19. Mineral Creek Falls (5.0 MILES ROUND-TRIP – EASY)

Hoh Rainforest | Upper Hoh Rd from US 101, 18 miles to trail Olympic National Park, pass required, kid-friendly, no dogs Tucked within towering Sitka spruces, firs, and maples in the rain forest this pleasant hike follows along the glacier-fed Hoh River.

Hoh Rainforest | Upper Hoh Rd from US 101, 18 miles to trail Olympic National Park, pass required, kid-friendly, no dogs

Tucked within towering Sitka spruces, firs, and maples in the rain forest this pleasant hike follows along the glacier-fed Hoh River.

20. Cascade Falls Loop ( .7 MILES LOOP – EASY)

20. Cascade Falls Loop ( .7 MILES LOOP – EASY)

Quinault Rainforest | South Shore Rd 2.3 miles to trail Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid / dog friendly

Quinault Rainforest | South Shore Rd 2.3 miles to trail Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid / dog friendly

Not the tallest, nor most popular of the waterfalls within the Quinault Rainforest, Cascade Falls is perhaps the prettiest.

Not the tallest, nor most popular of the waterfalls within the Quinault Rainforest, Cascade Falls is perhaps the prettiest.

21. Merriman Falls (ROADSIDE—MINIMAL WALKING)

21. Merriman Falls (ROADSIDE—MINIMAL WALKING)

Quinault Rainforest | South Shore Rd from US 101, 6.7 miles

Quinault Rainforest | South Shore Rd from US 101, 6.7 miles

Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid-friendly, dog friendly

The falls plummet 40 feet over a mossy and ferny ledge into a mossy tangle of boulders and saturated logs.

Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid-friendly, dog friendly The falls plummet 40 feet over a mossy and ferny ledge into a mossy tangle of boulders and saturated logs.

22. Enchanted Valley of 10,000 Waterfalls

22. Enchanted Valley of 10,000 Waterfalls (26 MILES ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE BACKPACKING TRIP)

(26 MILES ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE BACKPACKING TRIP)

Quinault Rainforest | South Shore Rd from US 101, 13 miles to Quinault River Bridge,right on Graves Creek Rd 6.2 miles

Quinault Rainforest | South Shore Rd from US 101, 13 miles to Quinault River Bridge,right on Graves Creek Rd 6.2 miles

ONP Wilderness Permits required, kid-friendly, no dog

ONP Wilderness Permits required, kid-friendly, no dog

Behold its stunning backdrop of sheer cliffs 3,000 feet high streaked with waterfalls and hanging snow and ice.

Behold its stunning backdrop of sheer cliffs 3,000 feet high streaked with waterfalls and hanging snow and ice.

Full descriptions: waterfalltrail.org

Full descriptions: waterfalltrail.org

Full descriptions: waterfalltrail.org

Full descriptions: waterfalltrail.org

(including map coordinates)

Capitol State Forest, Discover Pass required, kid/dog friendly Located at the confluence of the South and West Forks of Porter Creek. Here one branch cuts through a cleft while the other plunges over a ledge into a big punchbowl.

Porter Creek Rd, 2.9 miles B-0150 Rd, .5 mile, B-Line 0.9 mile Capitol State Forest, Discover Pass required, kid/dog friendly Located at the confluence of the South and West Forks of Porter Creek. Here one branch cuts through a cleft while the other plunges over a ledge into a big punchbowl.

National Park

NOTE: MAP NOT TO SCALE, FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY.

NOTE: MAP NOT TO SCALE, FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY.

PORT ANGELES