Fall 2020 | Tracing the Fjord

FALL 2020 ISSUE 14

MAPS • HIKES • HISTORY • COMMUNITY

CELEBRATE RESILIENCE

BIVALVE BOUNTY

Local communities and businesses have adapted during a trying summer – 12

Don't get your littlenecks and manilas mixed, here's a handy guide – 31

GOT MUSHROOMS?

GO CHASING WATERFALLS

A guide to getting involved in the PNW mycelium scene this Fall – 39

Check out the 25 top peninsula picks from canal to coast – 57

SILVER LAKE HIKE Romano takes us off the beaten path once again – 54

COVER PHOTO: GEORGE STENBERG

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Katie Aldrich, PMHNP-BC

David Anderson, MD

IT’S SAFE TO GET CARE! Darren Cuevas, DO

Vanessa Cray, PMHNP-BC

Primary Care Providers

Anthony Gordon, PA-C

Mason Clinic Now Open!

Amber Carlson, LICSW

Michelle Hamilton, DO

Andrew Kwon, MD

Katie Aldrich, PMHNP-BC

Amber Carlson, LICSW

Vanessa Cray, PMHNP-BC

Kirsten Garza, PMHNP-BC

Nicole Giron, LMHC

Henry In, DO

Trevor Kwan, DO

Erin Martinache, LICSW*

Benjamin May, DO

*Erin Martinache provides care at MGH Olympic Physicians. Call 360-426-2500 to make an appointment.

Call 360-426-2653 to book an appointment!

United Community, Empowered People, Exceptional Health

FJORD 2 (360) 427-9593. Equal Opportunity Provider • Free Translation Services Provided/Se habla español • Mason Health does not discriminate on the basis www.MasonGeneral.com • 901 Mountain View Drive, Shelton, WA 98584 • (360) 426-1611, from Allyn (360) 275-8614, Toll free (855) 880-3201, TTY/TDD of patient’s age, race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, culture, physical or mental disability, financial status or condition (including the terminally ill or dying), limited English, visual, hearing or learning impaired. Mason Health Rev. Date 6/1/2020

Sometimes it's not how far you get away. It's how far you go.

Rachel Hansen | Fjord editor The picture above of the Olympic Mountain range shrouded in a heavy blanket of wildfire smoke from Washington, Oregon and California was taken this week.

In the blink of an eye, we have been thrown yet another curve ball. The only thing you know you better not ask is – "can it get any worse?" Don't even.

This Fjord celebrates the resilience and determination of our communities.

Beneath that shroud of uncertainty (and smoke) a theme has emerged. The dialogue goes something like this. Shelton resident, Dawn Myers, decides to fill a truck with supplies for WA fire victims and posts it on Facebook. Myer reports, "we planned for three trucks to go and ended up with eight and a donated trailer." Within 5 days of the idea, in all 24 volunteers made the 550+ mile round trip to Eastern Washington.

It's not unusual for hard times to reveal that most are selfless and innovative.

Inspired beyond their own comforts, they help neighbors and come up with creative solutions to overcome crushing obstacles.

ISSUE 14 | VOLUME 4

A local couple during this time of social distancing has been inspired to chronicle themed family dinners. They bravely dress up in household items (and amazingly well too) and cook food that matches – like giant ribs for the Lord of the Rings night.

But mostly it's their expressions that delight in the evening photo journal. Faces shine brightly with strength and solidarity. We certainly aren't getting away from this any time soon but it gives you goosebumps to see those that "go" the added mile to make a difference in their family, community, and business.

Over the next 60 odd pages you won't find an event schedule, but you will find businesses that have pivoted in challenging times with new products or strategies to survive; communities that have rallied together to help each other; and inspiration to enjoy our beautiful and unique area with our families. Take a hike, volunteer, start a hobby, clean a geoduck and make ceviche, learn to scuba dive, and if you still can't find inner peace, read the article on page 24 and learn the Japanese art of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing that is purported to reduce your stress levels. Maybe wait until the smoke clears.

Thanks for your continued support of this magazine.

Publication is produced quarterly by IMAGE IN ACTION | nwevent.org (360) 427-5599 or email:rachel@nwevent.org PO Box 622, Shelton, WA 98584 AVAILABLE FREE THROUGHOUT THE NW © 2020 | no reprint without permission.

nwevent.org

Cover Photo Photographer George Stenberg caught this sunrise image over Hood Canal early September.

LOCAL KNOW HOW

NEED RECENTERING?

WORTHINGTON HOUSE

Cocierge service elevate experience – 5

Try the Japanese art of forest bathing – 24

Quilcene's "pearl" on the pearl update – 27

GEODUCK 101

A CHANGING LANDSCAPE

SILVER LAKE HIKE

Keep Clam. Xinh's got it covered – 8

Supply and operations3closer to home – 21 Romano takes us off the beaten path – FJORD 54

Authorized Dealer

Add a little color

Cabinets, Doors & Millwork

It bears reminding - we could all use a little color about now!

Gather your family and head to Lynch Creek's Dahlia Farm where the blooms are once again brightening the skies.

(360) 432-2992 OLYMPIC MOUNTAIN MILLWORK 822 E HIAWATHA BLVD. SHELTON, WA 98584

Visit our gallery online at: ommco.net

George Stenberg Photography presents the annual Hood Canal

2021 Calendar

$25/ea (includes shipping).

Contact @George Stenberg Photography on Facebook or visit georgestenbergphotography.com

Makes a great gift! georgestenbergphotography.com FJORD

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Lynch Creek Farm has been growing dahlias for well over 20 years. A couple of years ago owner, Andy Hunter, decided to open the dahlia fields to the public as a u-pick. The Hunter family was thrilled to find that it was a far greater success then they could have anticipated with many families making it an annual event – bringing kids, cameras, and even dogs.

The farm is open dawn until dusk every day until the first frost (late October). The stand is self-serve due to COVID. Help yourself to use of buckets and clippers or even grab a pre-made bouquets and leave your money in the dropbox. The $5.00/bouquet (12 blooms) or 50 cents a stem helps offset the weeding expense!

With three acres of dahlias to plant and prepare, it's a family affair with three generations of the Hunter family making sure their are plenty of blooms to go around. Arranged in giant rows, it's a rainbow so large that small planes overhead do fly overs.

More information is available at lynchcreekdahlias.com or just drop the following address into your smartphone map – 1880 SE Lynch Rd, Shelton.

The flowers are at their peak right now so gather your masks (social distancing is required in the rows) and head out into the rows of flowers to make your selections.

'Be The Traveler' Concierge

Unique fall experiences on the fjord While visiting the Hood Canal, everyone wants a meaningful highlight and memory of their vacation or event. Paddling the pristine fjord of Hood Canal, conquering the 5,951' peak of Mount Ellinor, or enjoying oysters harvested on the morning tide at Hama Hama Oyster Co. – the Hood Canal region is one of the most beautiful and unique areas in the world.

Imagine opening the door to your cozy waterfront cabin. The fire is laid, a bottle of wine chilling on the counter, the fridge stocked with your evening meal. You have arrived just in time to catch the last rays of sunshine as they gently set over the snow dusted Olympic Range. The kids tumble out to explore the beach, the adventure has begun.

You can spend hours online planning the perfect family getaway or you can use what's becoming increasingly popular for busy individuals – a concierge service.

It's like the perfect date. The concierge finds your ideal match – interests and budget – to create a long term relationship. You'll have a hard time wanting to go it alone again.

Recently TRACING THE FJORD caught up with Kerry London Myers, Operating Partner at Hood Canal Events based in Union. She and Jeff Nunnemaker have

created a robust business as Hood Canal guides over the last two decades. Not only does Jeff lead guests on day and overnight adventures to Olympic National Park and Forest peaks, but their team also arranges moonlight kayak tours, scenic glamour picnics and match guests with lodging that suits a nostalgic image of the Hood Canal escape. Put simply - they're in the concierge business.

Each spring the 'Traveler,' grasping his walking staff, appears on Mt. Washington and smiles benevolently down on the fjord.

It is actually a rock formation that is visible only for a few months every year, and most notably from Union, WA. The Traveler appears when just the right amount of snow has melted and disappears as summer approaches. There are a variety of oral myths and legends about The Traveler's return passed down through the generations by both the Native and Western populations living along canal. Hood Canal Events included the iconic Traveler in their

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1930's Historic Lodge

union Relax on the covered porch overlooking Calm Cove, gather around the 90-year-old fireplace as the glow reflects off the polished log beams – this is the perfect place to reconnect. hoodcanalevents.com logo to embrace the best of Hood Canal’s lodging, dining, farm fresh produce, art, and unique ways to enjoy your travels to the area. With each call, Kerry and Jeff show visitors how to be the Traveler.

Hood Canal area is host to over a hundred unique vacation rentals – each with its own style, budget and amenities. Some are waterfront cabins, others are homes nestled in a wooded setting off the beaten path and many can be simple yet fun campers or tents. A Google search reveals an overwhelming array of options.

However, sifting through the ones that suit your needs is not so easy. And sometimes – shockingly - the internet lies.

You have a finite window to make memories. Don't waste it. Working with a Concierge Specialist, like Hood Canal Events, take the guesswork out of locating the right lodging –perfect beach access, house size, pet friendly environment, seasonal activities, shopping and dining.

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photo: Hood Canal Events

Whether it be setting up at waterfront beach properties, secluded trails or simply an intimate dining room – creating a romantic, memorable experience is never seasonal. "Let it rain, let it snow," declares Kerry enthusiastically, tossing her mass of auburn curls, "if there’s a will - there’s a way to still picnic all year long - PNW style!"

When vacationing, it’s about reconnecting and gathering. So it seems natural that you take a break and leave the details to a chef who can allow you to focus on family and friends. Pre-planning is the key when hiring a private chef, especially in small towns like Union, Hoodsport or Lilliwaup. With enough notice you can embrace the Hood Canal region’s bounty of seasonal offerings such as wild mushrooms, oysters, clams, local beef, winter brews, and fall harvests from surrounding farms.

"Fall and winter months are premium seasons to rejuvenate the soul,"remarks Kerry London Myers, "guests can disconnect from the city life and take advantage of the off season rates. Many guests desire to have the home away from home feeling but long to still have that summer-like activity or comfort. Vacation rentals are ideal as you able to add an array of customizable services including grocery pick-up and stocking, floral arrangements, shellfish or

farm harvest deliveries, child care, picnics, chartered cruises (to properties with docks), exclusive boutique shopping, wine tasting and much more."

Hood Canal Events hosts six properties for owners and has access to dozens more. But their expertise doesn't stop there. Operating a successful catering business, Kerry specializes in arranging 'Glamour Picnics' complete with tent but without the clean up! "We know there is always something special to celebrate," she adds,"so let’s make it extra special with farm fresh local food, wine, beverages, mud boots and eclectic décor." From private chef prepared meals to take out cuisine, a fun Hood Canal picnic is the go to for unique dining experiences.

With limits set only by your budget, Hood Canal Events' team of culinary experts creates a scene to surprise your loved ones – vintage linens, thoughtful signage, rich history, and rustic prop – not to mention a memorable farm to table meal overlooking spectacular views.

Kerry and Jeff, Hood Canal Events FJORD

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Enjoy the process of menu development while creating an interactive table scape to express your personal creativity to share with those around you. Being the Traveler can be this simple – through food, beverage, gathering and a smidge of concierge assistance to set the scene! From a four course served meals to thoughtfully prepared meals dropped off at your vacation rental, you’re well on your way to a relaxing weekend of watching eagles, herons and other natural wildlife.

Customize and seek local know-how. That’s the secret when planning your fall and winter trip to Hood Canal. The perfect getaway can be achieved by connecting, planning and utilizing every resource the Hood Canal community has to offer. You’re only one phone call, text or email away from being the ultimate Traveler. Do you need Kerry's number? Call (360) 710-7452, and next time someone asks, just reply, "I know someone local."

Explore more

HOOD CANAL EVENTS is an event and recreation company based out of Union on Hood Canal. With over two decades experience, HCE designs custom PNW visitor packages that center on local farm to table food, craft beer/wine/spirits, art, culture, and area recreation. hoodcanalevents.com

Hood Canal, Wash.

Let us be your guides.

Last week we headed to Seattle to pick up boat items that couldn't be shipped.

Although my husband heads to SeaTac regularily for work, it was the first time I had left my "bubble."

It was shocking to see favorite restaurants closed or clinging to the bare minmum.

While many of the larger chains have the capacity to ride the storm, it is frightening to imagine the impact this will have on our small special hangouts. Fragile small business dreams are hanging in COVID uncertainty.

You hear it all the time. Shop Local.

Well, now more than ever, it's meaning resonates. If you are able, consider helping out your local eateries so they can cover their rent and keep staff working. Many of our small restaurants are open still - either for eat in or take out - and they could all use your support during these trying times.

Photo:KLAAS IMAGES

"Can we at least go out to eat?"

Quilcene Munns Since 1888.

For four generations the Munn family has made their home along Hood Canal.

Today, brothers, Bruce & Jim Munn, are happy to help you find your Canal home and share their experience & knowledge of the area with you.

The Munn Brothers specialize in properties in the Lake Leland, Quilcene and Dabob Bay areas along the Hood Canal. Stop by their office for maps, tide tables and local insight. Visit munnbros.com to sign up for email notifications of available properties. Contact Jim or Bruce today to find your perfect place.

Experience counts.

Always check first before heading out. Some places are not open and will need your help when they feel safe to do so. Others are take out only or require reservations and have limits on table capacity. If you are eating in you may take off your mask while seated, but please be kind and patient with dining staff.

They are trying to keep open and remain safe with a very restrictive set of rules to abide by.

It isn't the same for them either!

If you are on Facebook, check out this great resource compiled by the Shelton Mason Chamber, "Mason County Take-out & Delivery Options"(@mcfood). With 3500+ members the group discussion is updated with specials, hours and restaurant news in the area. Kudos to the Chamber for bringing

the community together.

294843 Highway 101 Quilcene WA

360-301-4700 Jim Cell 360-301-4026 Bruce Cell munnbros.com

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Loved & scorned (GOOEY - DUCK) Adapted with permission from Chef Xinh Dwelley's Pacific Coastal Flavors (2019) Available locally at Verle's, The Shopper and online at Taylor Shellfish or by calling (360) 427-5599.

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This giant saltwater clam derives its name, "geoduck," from a Nisqually word which is said to loosely translate as “dig deep.” Don’t let the awkward look deter you. This misunderstood bivalve is versatile and delicious. Xinh Dwelley, renown seafood chef and geoduck guru, shares her prep tips and recipes in her recent cookbook.

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The geoduck is native to intertidal and subtidal waters from Alaska to California. With a shell that ranges from just 6 – 8 inches, the long siphon, or neck, makes it the largest burrowing clam in the world. In fact, a geoduck’s neck can be as long as three and a half feet in length. So large that even from when it is as small as an inch, it cannot be withdrawn into the shell.

Geoduck attain maximum size at age fifteen, but are one of the longest living animals in the world. The typical lifespan of a wild geoduck can range to 140 years. The oldest being recorded at 168 years. Buried three feet deep in mud or sand, once they make it through their fragile adolescence, these giant clams do a fantastic job of keeping safe with their thick unpalatable skin.

It takes about six years to raise a farmed geoduck. Beginning life in a hatchery tank, the small seed (about one inch long), are “planted” in the soft sand in the intertidal and protected with PVC tubes. The tubes keeps them safe from predators until they are large enough to dig deeper.

Natural beds of geoducks grow on many of Washington’s public beaches with Puget Sound and Hood Canal containing the most abundant populations for public digging.

The best places to capture these big clams are the Duckabush and Dosewallips State Park on Hood Canal. You can also head over to a local market or order fresh online.

5 easy steps to dress a duck Preparing a geoduck can seem overwhelming but it is surprisingly simple. Just follow Xinh's 5 steps.

1. Get ready by boiling a pot of water and preparing a bowl of ice water large enough to fit your geoduck. Using tongs, immerse the whole clam in the hot water for about six seconds.

OPEN DAILY AT 10AM

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OPEN DAILY Place in ice quickly after scalding water to separate the outer layer from siphon. Taylor Shellfish photo

2. Quickly submerse in ice bath.

3. Holding the shell, run the

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blade of a knife along the inside of the shell and extract the body.

4. Grasp the tough outer tube

that surrounds the siphon and pull.

The hot water and ice bath will have effectively separated the thick skin from the neck meat.

5. Discard the bulbous stomach and your efforts will be rewarded with tender meat from the body and the tougher but just as tasty meat from the siphon. The siphon meat is often ground to make chowder or patties.

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REP THE NORTHWEST WITH REGIONAL GEAR.

OVER 70 ITEMS TO BUY ONLINE. SKOKOMISHTOURISM.COM/SHOP

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t, Sh elton WA

t, Sh elton WA

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MANILA CLAMS $6/LB • OYSTERS $10/DOZ

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Clean water & safe handling are the hallmarks of fresh and flavorful shellfish.

Direct pick-up at our family farm.

We harvest when you order. Clams are purged on the deep

Xinh's Geoduck Ceviche A Xinh Dwelley specialty and instant hit in its complexity of flavors, this dish goes great with chips. Adapted with permission from Xinh Dwelley's Pacific Coastal Flavors (2019). Available locally by calling (360) 427-5599.

1 lb geoduck neck, thinly sliced Juice of two limes (use separately) 1 stalk of celery, thinly sliced 1 small carrot, julienned 1 cucumber, thinly sliced (skin on) ¼ cup onion, finely chopped 2 Tbsp sesame seeds

1 tsp garlic, minced 2 red chili peppers, chopped 1 Tbsp fish sauce 1 Tbsp brown sugar ¼ cup mint, chopped Mint leaves (garnish) ¼ cup crushed peanuts (garnish)

Combine geoduck and juice of first lime. Marinate for 30 minutes. In second large bowl, combine celery, carrot, cucumber, onion and sesame seeds. In small bowl combine second lime juice, garlic, chili peppers, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Combine both bowls with mint and geoduck meat. Garnish with mint and peanuts.

water dock and oysters are filtered with a temperature controlled depuration system. Shellfish is packed in crushed ice for your journey home. Enjoy local, fresh

and delicious clams & oysters.

(360) 427-5599 southsoundoysters.com FJORD

Get your geoducks on hoodsport

Want to show your love for geoducks everyday and shop local? Then put on your boots and head to Octopus Garden Jewelry and tell owners, Tim and Lucy that we sent you. Featuring local art , gifts coastal decor and beautiful hand crafted (onsite by Tim) silver and gold jewelry, you will find something for everyone on your gift list – plus these conversation starters that I own – geoduck earrings. Wed - Sunday 105PM in Hoodsport. (360) 877-5530 10

Conveniently located in Shelton, WA, just off Highway 101 ONE STOP OUTDOOR RECREATION STORE SINCE 1948

HEWES CRAFT TOP 5 DEALER 2018 & 2019

Big Chief Smoker Check out this great kit to take care of your fall catch!

• Front or Top Loader Smoker • 3 Extra Bags of Smoking Chips • Fish Brine

$118.99*

* Package value $146.00, available while supplies last.

Whether you are shopping for a new boat, that certain fishing lure, boat maintenance or want to get the latest fishing report – stop by Verle’s LLC today.

Verle’s is your ONE STOP COMPLETE OUTDOOR RECREATION STORE, staffed with knowledgeable, local outdoor enthusiasts.

7 4 1 W E S T G O L D E N P H E A S A N T R O A D , S H E LT O N FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK:

@VERLESLLC

(360) 426-0933

VERLES.CO M

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around the fjord local businesses pivot with new ideas

Belfair State Park

Parks extends reservations into fall Around the State

In response to a higher-than-normal demand for camping due to COVID-19, WA State Parks is extending reservations at select parks later into fall than usual. Campers can make a reservation and stay through Nov. 1.For many parks, the camping season normally ends Sept. 30, and State Parks stops accepting reservations for the season on Sept. 15. The extension is for the 2020 season only. Extended camping and reservations include the following nearby parks: Belfair — campsites and cabins; Lake Sylvia — campsites; Millersylvania — camping extended to year-round; Potlatch — campsites; Scenic Beach — campsites; and Twanoh — campsites. State Parks advises campers to plan ahead and make reservations, rather than show up at a park and hope for a vacancy. This ensures campers will have a site or a cabin when they arrive. For info visit washington.goingtocamp.com, or call 888-CAMPOUT.

Finnriver's curated cider sets available chimacum

Finnriver's Orchard Series Ciders are fermented primarily from their estate-grown, organic cider apples and pears, with apples from a network of small regional orchard allies. These ciders aspire to celebrate the soils, waters and maritime climate of the Chimacum Valley, along with presenting elegant variations on the classic cider. The Tree-To-Table Six Pack are offered for pick-up at their Chimacum store or by shipment through finnriver.com.

Bridge socks and swag lilliwaup

Hama Hama Oyster Co., Lilliwaup, stepped up their game amidst the confusion to offer reservation opportunities at the Saloon for their oyster fans as well as extended products online including the oysters we love 'em for, clams, crab cakes, sauces, meal kits, and some inspired new items including the "oyster slinger" and the comfy Poler socks ($12) that we're swooning over. hamahamaoysters.com FJORD

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hello Say hello to Leah Swantak, Your New OCCU Home Loan Specialist!

First Mortgages • Refinances • Manufactured Homes • Jumbo Loans • Adjustable Rate Loans Fixed Rate Loans • FHA • USDA • VA Home Equity Lines of Credit • Land Loans

Let ’s Talk!

Leah Swantak Home Loan Specialist NMLS #1566254

(360) 432-5210 (800) 426-5657 www.ourcu.com

New octo-caps at YSS Scuba hoodsport

YSS Dive offers monthly PADI scuba diving certifications, Discover Scuba Diving for beginners, and guided tours for certified Divers.

No matter the experience level, you will be welcome! We also offer a large variety of top rated scuba equipment, service from our experienced professionals, and high quality rental gear. Located right on the Hood Canal in the town of Hoodsport, WA.

Fjord spirits

Kayaks, kites & camping kits

hoodsport

A peach liqueur, back sweetened with honey is in the experimental stages at Hardware Distillery in Hoodsport. They are using organically grown honey from Rochester and experimenting with Blackberry, Fireweed, and Wild Flower. The formula and label approvals are in the works.

brinnon Hood Canal Adventures’ new outdoor gear retail store was a great addition to their already robust line up this summer. Located at 306146 Hwy 101 the new business offers a "basecamp" for residents and visitors for information, tours, guidebooks, and maps, and outdoor supplies. September hours for rental walk-ins: Sat & Sun 10 AM - 5 PM / Mon - Fri by appointment. Basecamp Outfitters hours: Thur - Mon 9:30 AM to 5 PM. Kayak rentals are at Yelvik’s Beach 3 miles north at 251 Hjelvicks Rd. hoodcanaladventures.com

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photo: Mosquito Fleet Winery

Let the art shine at El Sarape Cantina shelton

The Fleet crosses 7 seas Belfair

photo: Mo's/Craft

Award winning boutique winery, Mosquito Fleet in Belfair is open for tastings Friday, Saturday & Sundays. Table seating limited to 5 people with indoor & outdoor seating.

Now you can bring your none wine drinking friends (for shame) to sip with you with the addition of beer from 7 Seas Brewery.

Hood Canal artist, BriAnne Waite, has created another Day of the Dead mural for this local Shelton hangout. Check out her other themed art inside. El Sarape Cantina is open Sunday through Thursday, 11 AM - 9 PM; and Friday and Saturday 11 AM -10 PM for take out or dine in. elsarape.net

Trendy & cute locally, YES!

Let them eat pie shelton

Hungry? Smoking Mo's has fruit, nut, cream, and savory pies available to order online. The choices are immense (some flavors are seasonal). Pies runs $24 to $28 while sweet petite bite-sized pies running $24/dozen. They even have lemon bars and peach cobbler available! Head over to smokingmos.com or call (360) 462-0163 for more details.

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Shelton Northwest Clothing Co. is a women's clothing store that offers a variety of styles & extended sizes in Shelton. They are constantly getting in new stock available at very reasonable prices. Shop local and head over to their store on Alder Street. Closed Mondays. northwestclothingco.com

Let the school spirit shine shelton

The Shopper is more than printing and office supplies -- the custom apparel department has a selection of school spirit designs you can add to any item for just $5. Open Monday through Friday until 5 PM. shoppersweekly.com 14

Go treasure hunting

seabeck Hood Canal Vintage & Design by Kamkeekoloni is the jewel at the end of a road.

Check out this colorful little shop for fantastic vintage treasures to take away the COVID blues. Open Wednesday through Sunday until 5 PM at 15398 Seabeck Hwy. (360) 865-0352

Family Owned & Operated MASON COUNTY FULL-SERVICE GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Proudly serving our community for nearly 20 years!

EI. KRISTYN & SON CONSTRUCTION, INC. specializes in custom home building, excavation, demolition and tree removal. We build all of our projects with expert

craftsmanship & great attention to detail. We take pride in our work and it always shows in our finished product! We are licensed, bonded, and insured.

Call us today for a free written estimate.

Find us on Facebook

(360) 432-3147

@HomeBuilderShelton

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Union The first pumpkins have arrived at Hunter Farms, a seven generation farm in the Skokomish Valley. If that doesn't get you excited, stop by their store for the fresh corn, picked twice daily. hunter-farms.com

Roadtrip worthy destination port gamble

photo: Twana Roadhouse

If you haven't visited the historic town of Port Gamble yet, you should start planning your next road trip. This town just makes you feel good. Perched on the mouth of the Hood Canal, this community embraces and celebrates Washington's logging history with open arms. Stop by the Port Gamble General Store for shopping but be sure to head upstairs to enjoy the "Of Sea and Shore Museum" -- this collection is like nothing you have ever seen before. Hungry? Head next door to their waterview cafe that serves espresso, sandwiches, soups, fresh baked goods and even Olympic Mountain Ice Cream. Open daily. portgamblegeneralstore.com

OysterFest adds 32' icon to Outlook Park Shelton

Take home great food and brews quilcene

101 Brewery at Twana Roadhouse is open to take out orders 9 AM - 6 PM daily. Help support this family owned and operated local eatery by ordering from their extensive menu. 101brewery.com FJORD

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In early September a giant Oyster Man mural replaced the Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox (honoring Mason County Forest Festival) that welcomed vehicles arriving from the south into Shelton. The 32' plywood shellfish mural pays homage to the aquaculture industry in Mason County and the annual OysterFest event in Shelton. The mural is a new installment of the seasonal series that will annually occupy their post in Outlook Park. The mural is designed in the retro style of the historic Clarence Beauchamp Santa Claus that will replace the Oyster Man after Thanksgiving. The acrylic design was inspired by the OysterFest logo and required 14 sheets of plywood. The project was sponsored by Skookum Rotary Club with support from Explore Hood Canal and the City of Shelton. Skookum Rotary Club canceled this year’s OysterFest event based on potential COVID 19 risks and social distancing guideline. OysterFest annually draws over 12,000 people to the area.

photo: Visit Union

photo: Port Gamble General Store

Fall colors

Meet Morgan

union When Morgan Scherer (SHEAR-er) traveled from Indiana to start his new position at Alderbrook Resort & Spa as the Trails Steward this January he had no idea that a pandemic would take a blow at the hospitality industry. Nevertheless, over the last nine months he has shared a series of inspiring blog posts about anything outdoors at Alderbrook. From alders and bird watching to fungi and pileated woodpeckers – check out his tidbits of fun information at alderbrookresort.com/blog.

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Blooms as far as the eye can see

kamilche Lynch Creek Dahlias U-Cut dahlia field south of Shelton is open for the season and is chock full of gorgeous flowers. Bring the whole family (and the camera). While visiting, wear a mask and social distance! .50 cents/stem or $5.00/dozen.

1880 SE Lynch Rd. See story page 4. lynchcreekdahlias.com

(360) 427-4248

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We are an independent financial services firm helping individuals create retirement strategies using a variety of insurance products to custom suit their needs and objectives.

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Cedar for the oyster win Women & wine golf lessons at Lake Limerick Golf Club Shelton

The women's golf lessons were so popular this summer they have been continued through the end of September. Members were having so much FUN they told staff member, Mark Hendricks, "we want more!" This summer two sponsors stepped forward to support the lessons for men, women and youth. Brenda Bakken and Haigh Veterinary are outstanding community members, that made this program happen. Lake Limerick Golf Club & CafĂŠ is located between Union and Shelton. They invite the public to come for a visit and a round of golf in their safe, quiet, and fun facility surrounded by freshwater lakes and lush forests. For information about group or private lessons, tee times, specials, or memberships call the Pro Shop at (360)-426-6290 or visit lakelimerickgolf.com.

MGH received Hands On Museum donations

Shelton Mason Health was thrilled to receive several donations from the Hands On Children's Museum in Olympia, purchased and donated by Our Community Credit Union in August. The donations include arts and crafts kits for the younger patients and family fun boxes that will be raffled to Mason Health employees over the December holidays.

kamilche

Recently Taylor Shellfish Farms hosted a grilled oyster recipe contest online. Their winner is Andrew Tye who received a $100 gift card for his "Cedar Bough Grilled Oysters with Watermelon Rind Black Vinegar Escabeche & Bacon." According to Taylor Shellfish, "this recipe stood out to us for its great use of the grill to impart flavor into the oysters." Don't worry, we all win, since you can find the full recipe on their Recipe Blog at taylorshellfishfarms.com.

Hood Canal swag - "its a fjord" & others at 20% off skokomish

We can't head out to the Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman right now, but we can still get a taste of the canal with these and over 50 other great designs available to order through Skokomish Tourism (check out the Shelton Paul Bunyan and the High Steel Bridge designs).

Don't take our word for it, head to skokomishtourism.com/shop and check out the perfect image that say "Hood Canal" to you. And yes, it does get better, they are offering a 20 % discount to our readers.

Type in promotional code FJORD20 to shirts for just $13 each! skokomishtourism.com/shop

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Chamber seeks nominations shelton

Local businesses are doing more than surviving, they are inspiring! Celebrate the best in our local business community by nominating those individuals who exemplify initiative for the annual awards presented by the Shelton-Mason Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber celebrates businesses within Mason County each year for their unique contributions, successes, and spirit of community. There are five distinguished categories to earn accolades this year so it’s time to reflect upon 2020 in a positive light; recall who made a big impact and submit a nomination on their behalf.

The purpose of these awards is to highlight our appreciation for volunteers and businesses for all they do to support our hometown. “These nominees are extraordinary people who are dedicated to bettering our community,” says Chamber executive director Heidi McCutcheon. “It is immensely rewarding to acknowledge them for their service and to acknowledge the incredible difference they are making in our community.”

There is an opportunity to nominate among five awards including: Business, Rookie, Boss, Citizen, and Volunteer of the Year. All nominations are reviewed by a committee, who recommend three nominees from each category to go on the ballot.

Once the Board receives and approves the final candidates, voting will be opened to Chamber members with one vote per category. Membership votes determine the award winners. The big reveal will take place at the Annual Gala in January.

road trip-worthy bites: Friday, Saturday, Sunday

“We are extraordinarily blessed with the caliber of those who share their talents to make Mason County a better place to live, work, and play,” McCutcheon adds. “They are a model for others to learn from and the President’s Choice award is a fantastic way to honor their tireless efforts.”

All criteria for consideration can be found online and submissions will be accepted through September 30. Nominees will be notified by the Chamber in early October and ultimately selected by the end of month. Category finalists will be showcased during an evening of excellence that culminates with five big award winners, one surprise Volunteer of the Year and an overall President’s Choice announcement a must-attend semi-formal event. Visit masonchamber.com for more information.

2-6PM

10AM-3PM

5101 E HwY 106, UnIoN, Wa 98592 UnIoNcItYmArKeT.CoM 360.898.3500

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photo: EDC Mason County

photo: Shelton Cinemas

NEW hometown pizzeria

photo: Elliot's Oyster House

Shelton Get your tickets online at sheltoncinemas.com for local movie releases. . At this time they can only admit 25% capacity and are encouraging everyone to buy your tickets online at this time to make sure you have a seat available to you so no one has to be turned away due to lack of space. sheltoncinemas.com

Guinness World Record for the largest display of Christmas trees

photo:Joonbug Yoga

mason county The largest display of illuminated Christmas trees consists of 797 trees, and was achieved

by Mason County in Shelton, on Dec 7, 2019.

Mason County is historically known as the Christmas tree capital of the world. To reignite the community spirit, the county decided to attempt this record title and created a Christmas tree maze as their display. Official word of the Guinness accomplishment was received in July 2020. The Guinness record can be viewed at guinnessworldrecords.com.

Allyn Stop by Allyn Pizza in beautiful downtown Allyn next to the post office at 18321 E Highway 3! They are open 11 AM - 9 PM. Order to go at (360) 277-5015 you can also visit their Facebook for a full menu including calzones! @AllynPizza photo: Riverdance

Shelton Cinemas opens at 25% capacity

Stock up on loaves The ice on the half shell

skokomish Did you know that for years now Olympic Mountain Ice Cream, made in the Skokomish Valley by the Black family, has been making and delivering the delicious and unique oyster mignonette sorbet for Elliot's Oyster House in Seattle? Yep, its true. And it's worth driving to Seattle (even from Shelton) to eat fjord oysters on the half shell! olympicmountainicecream.com

Shelton We are all washing more these days. Why not make it enjoyable and therapeutic with one of these loaves crafted by local soapery, Riverdance Soapworks - Lavender, Day Tripper, Cranberry Spice, and Olympic Mist.

Limited to supply on hand, each loaf can be cut into 12 1/2 regular bars. The cost is $42.20, orders can be placed online and shipped or picked up at the Olympia Farmers Market. riverdancesoapworks.com.

All levels waterfront yoga available at Alderbrook Union

Join Michelle and Joonbug Yoga this fall at Alderbrook Resort and Spa! Classes are held outside through October then moved indoors. There is room for six non-resort guests during Phase 3.

The cost is $108/person for Monday sessions and $84/ person for Friday sessions. Bring a yoga mat, mask and space 6' apart. Monday (nine classes): October 5 -November 30; Friday (seven classes): November 6 - December 18. Pre-registration required at joonbugyoga.com.

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The trend to "onshore' business operations in the Pacific Northwest "60% of U.S. manufacturing companies are reporting COVID-19 business disruptions."

'Onshoring' - as opposed to 'offshoring' – is on the minds of many business owners who have watched helplessly as their supply chains are disrupted and deliveries delayed owing to COVID-19. For four decades, the prevailing trend has pushed to base manufacturing overseas to save costs. Recent uncertainties have caused them to wonder, “At what cost?” If the cost is an inability to supply customers and fulfill contracts, it may not be worth it. With 60% of U.S. manufacturing companies reporting COVID-19 disruptions, this is a widespread issue impacting virtually all industries.

In addition to companies manufacturing in the U.S., 28% of suppliers surveyed reported that they are seeking suppliers that produce domestically. This will create expansion opportunities for current U.S. manufacturers. In the northwest, Mason County is uniquely positioned to support that growth and to be a home to growing companies, or those onshoring for the first time.

"Mason County can be competitive with other areas by having the advantages of a lower cost of living, available properties and a close proximity to urban areas."

photo credit: .madeinshelton.com

Manufacturing within your own country, or 'onshoring,' can reduce risk of future disruptions and delays. It's a major shift in thinking that will take years to implement, but even opening U.S. manufacturing facilities as part of their global operations is increasingly seen as a prudent move.

Mason County is located within the booming Seattle region, yet far enough from the big city to enjoy small town charm and the surrounding natural beauty of the Hood Canal, Olympic National Park and Forest. Ultimately, the cost of living in the area is less than nearby counties, making it easier to operate a business.

Mark Velasco and his family have resided in Shelton since 1978. The family started Jalisco Totillas in 1997. The factory daily produces Non-GMO corn tortilla products and “clean label” flour tortilla products as well as fresh salsa for restaurants, retail stores, and private label customers throughout the Pacific Northwest.

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MASON TRANSIT AUTHORITY TRANSIT-COMMUNITY CENTER YOUR VISION | YOUR STYLE | YOUR DAY MEETING ROOMS

EVENT SPACE

COMMERCIAL KITCHEN Mason County surrounds the "bend" of Hood Canal offering access to outdoor recreation and the Olympic National Park & Forest. (EDC Image)

FOR RENTAL AVAILABILITY CALL STEVE WEISENBACH T-CC Superintendent 360.432.5758 sweisenbach@masontransit.org 601 W. Franklin St., Shelton, WA

We Make Good Impressions

CLASSIFIED & DISPLAY ADVERTISING LARGE SCALE PRINTING OFFICE SUPPLIES BULK MAILING & FULFILLMENT SERVICES CUSTOM APPAREL & PROMOTIONAL ITEMS PRINTING & DESIGN SERVICES

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"We have greatly benefited from high tourist traffic who seek out the many scenic adventures Mason County has to offer," remarked Velasco in a recent interview, "over the past 23 years we have been able to attract a diverse consumer base from Seattle all the way to Portland as Mason County is the gateway to the Olympic Peninsula which attracts thousands of outdoor adventurers from all over the state."

Apart from recreation areas, this rural area offers easy access to Northwest primary urban areas. Businesses utilize the I-5 corridor and waterways through the county’s many ports as well as have access to dedicated rail systems to receive supplies or transport goods without paying the high cost of operating in larger ports like Seattle or San Diego.

The communities of Shelton, Belfair and Allyn have office, industrial and retail buildings available. Zoned for all three is a 23400 sf manufacturing facility in Allyn-Grapeview (1/2 hour drive to Tacoma.) Also available is a 1915 sf office space in Belfair, just 3.7 miles from the Bremerton Airport.

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"Our decision to start our unique business in Mason County revolved around the lower commercial real estate rates and the overall lower cost of doing business versus surrounding counties."

Mark Velasco, Jalisco Tortillas - Shelton For those looking to start from scratch, the areas has many sites available, such as a .9 acre lot just off Highway 101, the main artery to downtown Shelton.

Zoned for mix use,such as professional offices, medical, assisted living, retail, or auto services, this site is ready for development.

With is strong ties to the timber and shellfish industry, Mason County has a dedicated generational workforce. These hardworking individuals are accustomed to adapting to any business and are able to gain the training necessary for in-demand jobs thanks to local colleges offering vocational, technical and degree programs.

AWARD WINNING CRAFT DISTILLERY ON HOOD CANAL

D E I R S A T I W L L D E R R A Y H CO. E TH

COVID-19 has demonstrated the scale of the impact of a global pandemic, but it’s not the only disaster that can disrupt supply chains. Hurricanes, earthquakes, and fires are all unpredictable disasters that can take down the supply chain. Studies show that many of the countries where U.S. companies have manufacturing operations have been hardest hit by these disasters, threatening the security of their infrastructure.

®

GIFT SHOP | TASTING ROOM

A Craft Distillery in Hoodsport, WA

The 2001 earthquake and tsunami in Japan and floods in Thailand had crippling effects on the electronics and automotive manufacturing sectors. Put simply – the global supply chain is fragile. Businesses who want to protect themselves should onshore at least part of their operations to protect Gift Shop their interests.

Sponsor

. Tasting Room (206) . Tours WINTER HOURS

300-0877

24210 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport, WA

Thursday, Friday & Sunday Noon-5; Saturday 10 - 6

"As a family-owned and operated business, Mason County has been the perfect setting that has offered strong community support on top of the support from our local city and county government. We are looking forward to another 20+ more years of success here in Mason County. " Mark Velasco Jalisco Tortillas - Shelton

206-300-0877 • hardwaredistillery.com

hardwaredistillery.com

24210 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport, WA

The process of finding a site, obtaining permits, constructing a facility, hiring and training a workforce is daunting but the Economic Development Council of Mason County deals with these concerns daily. When onshoring is part of a business' protection strategy, the EDC team in Shelton provides assistance throughout the entire process.

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Interested in learning more about business opportunities in Mason County? Contact Jennifer or Karin, local EDC facilitators, (360) 426-2276 or visit choosemason.com.

We look forward to welcoming your business, family and your employees' families to our wonderful communities.

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I sat staring, staring, staring - half lost, learning a new language or rather the same language in a different dialect. So still were the big woods where I sat, sound might not yet have been born.

Emily Carr (1871-1945)

the art of

Forest Bathing Stella Wenstob | story

And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.

John Muir (1838-1914) FJORD

So many shades of green and goldy-brown, you would need more than a box of crayons or a poet’s vocabulary. Sunlight breaks through the thick canopy, illuminating pale green lichen that has bearded a tall branching spruce tree. The dense carpet of hemlock needles deaden the sound of my feet, leaving only the song of the odd flitting thrush to fill my ears. Searching the branches for the bird, I stumble, catching myself against the giant spruce’s scaly bark and come away with a hand sticky with citrus smelling pitch. Low growing huckleberries punctuate the natural colors with vibrant red berries. I pop one in my mouth and am instantly assaulted by the sharp tangy flavour.

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Even without trying, my mind becomes untethered in the forest. Distractions abound.

It is easy to get caught up in the problems of a squirrel whowho I have disturbed from his afternoon repast.

However, this is using the woodland as a distraction or an escape. There are those that advocate this is the perfect place to find peace through mindful engagement with the forest.

These people are Forest Bathers.

Western culture has long applauded natures rejuvenating properties for the soul. In many ways it is ingrained in American culture, as Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862) famously wrote of his decision to simplify his life in his cabin on Walden’s pond: I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived... (1854)

The English Romantic poet William Wordsworth (1770– 1850) also found nature to be a great teacher of the human condition: One impulse from a vernal wood May teach you more of man, Of moral evil and of good, Than all the sages can.

The influential naturalist John Muir (1838-1914), who is famous for co-founding the Sierra Club and as an advocate for preserving the wilderness, wrote extensively about the healing qualities of nature. Muir wrote in 1894 in the Mountains of California:

Needless to say, the Western world has been experimenting with the idea of nature aiding health and well-being for some time. However, there has been very little physiological research of this phenomenon grounded in Western science. Enter, the Japanese approach.

Since its inception in the 1980s the Japanese technique of ‘‘Shinrin-yoku’’ translated as ‘taking in the forest atmosphere or forest bathing’ has grown in popularity and more research has been done verifying its efficacy. Qing Li author of FOREST BATHING: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness (2018) has done extensive research into the health benefits of forest bathing.

In a 2016 study Qing Li and others demonstrated that middle-aged male subjects had reduced pulse rate and significantly increased the score for vigor and decreased the scores for depression, fatigue, anxiety, and confusion. Adrenaline and dopamine levels, both indicators of stress, excitement, and over stimulation, were lowered after a forest walk as opposed to comparable urban area trek.

Additionally, serum adiponectin (which aids in the breaking down of blood sugar) was significantly greater. Further studies have demonstrated a chemical known as phytoncides released by trees and some plants positively effects stress levels, decreasing blood pressure. Forest bathing has been determined to be so beneficial to health that it has been adopted by the Japanese government health program.

Climb the mountains and get their Quing Li outlines that forest good tidings. Nature's peace will flow bathing must be done in a into you as sunshine flows into trees. meditative, mindful way, but The winds will blow their own freshthis practice need not be done ness into you, and the storms their in solitude. energy, while cares will drop away from you like the leaves of Autumn.

Your Northwest Tradition

BOOK YOUR NW TRADITION ONLINE TODAY 360.898.2145

alderbrookresort.com

“Away, away, from men and towns, To the wild wood and the downs, — To the silent wilderness, Where the soul need not repress its music.”

Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792-1822)

I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.

John Burroughs (1837-1921)

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If you are the sort that requires a personal trainer to commit to a healthy goal, there are trained Forest Therapists that can guide you on Forest Bathing excursions. However, taking a like-minded friend on your quest can be just as effective.

Quing Li states that the first step to Forest Bathing is to unplug and simply focus on the green and your senses:

Make sure you have left your phone and camera behind. You are going to be walking aimlessly and slowly.

You don’t need any devices. Let your body be your guide. Listen to where it wants to take you. Follow your nose.

And take your time. It doesn’t matter if you don’t get anywhere. You are not going anywhere. You are savoring the sounds, smells and sights of nature and letting the forest in. (2018)

Perhaps I was unkind to myself in the first paragraph. Maybe it is not distraction I gain from the woods, but perspective.

That in spite of everything life is full of beauty.

"Keep close to Nature’s heart… and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods.

As American conservationist and biologist Rachel Carson (1907-1964) wrote:

Wash your spirit clean."

John Muir

It is a wholesome and necessary thing for us to turn again to the earth and in the contemplation of her beauties to know of wonder and humility.

(1838-1914 "My soul is growing sick—

In our socially distant times, when human contact can be so stressful and unsatisfying, hugging a tree may be our best option. If that is too hippy-dippy for you, hold back on the actual hugging, but why not simply meander and take comfort in the woods and contemplate the squirrels?

I will away and gather balm from a sweet forest walk!

Hannah Flagg Gould (1789-1865)

Connecting our Community with 98% Carbon-Free Electricity!

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ee r f n o carb

Story contributed by Brian Cullen Quilcene Historical museum

Quilcene's Worthington House

Light at the End of the Tunnel Like every small town in America, so much depends upon the community.

Families often go back several generations, enjoying the good times together as well as living through economic struggles, often beyond their ability to predict or influence. This year was no exception for Quilcene with the pandemic.

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Community Strong The Quilcene Historical Museum has been busy preparing for better times with the opening of the newly restored Victorian mansion (Hamilton-Worthington House) and a fully operational special events center, Worthington Park, planned for 2021.

Worthington Park will be a one-of-a-kind historical and cultural destination with an active museum, Victorian mansion, outdoor performing arts theater, and ten acres of beautiful grounds..

The Collection Since the founding of the Museum in 1991, the collection, preservation and display of artifacts, documents and photographs have been the main method of sharing the historical and cultural legacy of Quilcene and the surrounding communities. New interest in the history of the area and

the families that settled here has brought more artifacts, photos, and documents to the Museum for safekeeping.

Once the mansion is open for guests, much of this growing collection will be displayed there in rotating exhibits.

More than 5,000 items have been donated by more than 460 donors.

In 2019, an additional 184 items from ten local and regional donors added to the collection's inventory. The Museum was the winner of the 2018 Preservation Stewardship Award for Outstanding Achievement in Historic Preservation by the Washington State Department of Archeological & Historic Preservation.

The mansion received Washington state and national historic designation in January 2014.

Built in 1892 with seventeen rooms, three stories, and a second empire-style Victorian mansard roof, it is the only remaining house of its size, integrity and cultural relevance in rural Jefferson County.

Lake Limerick Golf Club & Cafe Fall back in Love with Golf!

Play 18 with Split tees - Par 72 Safety Guidelines will given with Tee Times Annual Golf Membership Available

Serving our Members and the Public Must call for Tee Times Pro Shop 360-426-6290 Call or visit our website for Fall Specials.

Credit Card Only www.LakeLimerickGolf.com elen@lakelimerick.com 811 E Saint Andrews Drive Shelton WA 98584

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The Final Steps in Mansion Restoration The restoration is nearly complete. Efforts have included facility upgrades - trim, paint, woodwork detail, bathrooms install, ADA adaptions, and the addition of an event-ready catering kitchen.

These finishing touches will support event productions and overnight accomodations that will in turn resource the continued maintenance and operation of the house, grounds and museum. Efforts are well underway to furnish the interior of the mansion with period-appropriate décor. Décor eras were chosen for the five main first floor rooms: Victorian, Eastlake, Arts and Crafts, and Mission Oak. More than 50 historic era furnishings have been acquired, including originals that came with the house, donations from Worthington families and other area residents, and some purchased where considered appropriate. Period light fixtures, lamps, and art work were acquired through donations, purchase and special grants. The art collection on display will include paintings that would have been available to the home inhabitants or created during the late 1880's through the 1930's.

This regional art collection will be on display for approximately one year.

Volunteer Core When you are a small community, cooperation and support are the essential ingredients for sustained progress. “Debt free” is a term that is treasured by the Quilcene Museum especially during these challenging times. At no time was borrowing money considered an acceptable option.

"There have been 32,000+ volunteer hours invested – including preservation expertise, local artisans, craftspeople, & construction."

The board and advisors preferred to create a community asset that was a showcase for one of the best qualities of a small town—pulling together. Fundraising through private donors, foundation grants, state grants, events, member dues, and in-kind work hours and efforts from volunteers not only saved costs but also could be used as a match toward grants.

Granting organizations like the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust have been critical to resourcing and sustaining this community-focussed

undertaking.

mansion restoration

"More than 5,000 items have

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been donated by more

29 than 460 donors."

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MASON TRANSIT AUTHORITY

NO

FARE THROUGHOUT MASON COUNTY

We are proud to bring transportation alternatives that provide mobility to all, and increase the quality of life in Mason County.

COMMUNITY VAN PROGRAM WORKER/DRIVER (PSNS) COMMUTER SERVICE ROUTED SERVICE DIAL-A-RIDE VANPOOL

Volunteerism is at the core of this center’s existence. High marks for financial management have come from charitable foundation funders and state grant auditors, and over the last few months the Museum has been awarded grants which constitute over ninety percent of the funding target for completing the project in 2021.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO SCHEDULE A DIAL-A-RIDE, CALL 360.427.5033 OR TOLL FREE 1.800.374.3747

photo: Kassidy Kadoun

masontransit.org

Olympic National Park relocates 325 mountain goats to Cascades Capture and translocation operations are now complete with an additional 50 mountain goats moved in this final round from Olympic National Park and Forest to the Cascade Mountains. A total of 325 mountain goats have been translocated.

Through a partnership between the National Park Service, the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the USDA Forest Service to re-establish and assist in connecting depleted populations of mountain goats in the Cascades while also removing non-native goats from the Olympic Mountains.

Mountain goats were brought to the Olympics in the 1920s.

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The vision is to create a gathering place to celebrate the history, nature, and unique character that make Quilcene the Pearl of the Peninsula.

Experiences at Worthington Park will capture the spirit of this community enriched by its rural roots - telling of colorful and hard-working beginnings and celebrating the promise of future endeavors.

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In addition to the released in the North Cascades, a total of 16 kids have been given homes in zoos. In total, there were 22 mortalities related to capture.

Eight animals that could not be captured were lethally removed.

Overall, 381 mountain goats were removed from Olympic National Park Forest in four, two-week operational periods, September 2018 to August 2020.

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SHELLFISH & BEACH

Guide

SOUTH PUGET SOUND & HOOD CANAL

PULL-OUT GUIDE TO SHELLFISH, WATER EXPLORING & BEACH ADVENTURES ON HOOD CANAL AND SOUTH PUGET SOUND

COVER PHOTO: GEORGE STENBERG

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GUIDE PRODUCED BY MASON COUNTY TOURISM

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MASON COUNTY'S B

shellfish Forage on Washington’s Wild Side.

Our Local Bivalves

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

EAGLE CR Hamma

Get to know a few species NATIVE LITTLENECK CLAM

Up to 3.5” with rounded shell displaying concentric rings and radiating ridge lines, cream, grey, brown, or mottled.

White inside shell; found at 6-10” deep in gravel, mud, mid-tide level.

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MANILA LITTLENECK CLAM (NOT NATIVE)

Up to 2.5”, oblong shell, Color can vary—typically grey,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.

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 andOLYMPIC osprey. Overnight RV camping permitted; no restrooms.

NATIONAL FOREST

BUTTER CLAM

Up to 5”, shell with concentric rings (no radiating ridge lines), Yellow to grey/white colored; found at 1-1.5’ in sand, gravel, or cobble; lower intertidal or shallow subtidal zone. Butter clams retain marine biotoxins longer than other clams.

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

COCKLE CLAM

Up to 5” with round shell; prominent evenly-spaced radiating ridges fanning from hinge; mottled, light brown color; found at 1-2” in sand, mud in intertidal or subtidal zone.

HOODSP

Visitor Informat

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

POTLATCH BEACH PARK

Longest stretch of public beach, popular for swimming, kayaking, and picnics. Camping & restrooms.

Currently Closed to Shellfish Harvest

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.

Up to 12”, white/gray oblong shell with irregular, wavy edges; found in intertidal zone; tumbled (farmed) Pacifics have cupped shape with fragile shells.

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OLYMPIA OYSTER

M AT LO C K

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.

S HELT WALKER PARK

MUSSELS

Beach access, playground, restrooms, picnic shelte 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.

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.

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.

GEODUCK

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OYSTERFEST

PACIFIC OYSTERS (NOT NATIVE)

Up to 10”, 2.5 – 10 lbs. Gaping oblong shell with concentric rings; white shell with flaky brown skin; siphon and mantle are too large to withdraw; found at depth of 2-3’ in mud, sand, gravel in the subtidal zone (extreme low tides).

Expansive beach w property signs. Exc Warm enough for Parking across from

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explorehoodcana

CHECK. CHILL. COOK.

BEACH &

map

T RI TO N 101

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REEK

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.

Nice beaches for walking and exploring with summer water temperatures surprisingly warm.

Restrooms, camping and picnic facilities.

Currently Closed to Shellfish Harvest

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MENARD’S LANDING

3

B E LFAIR

Visitor Information

Gazebo, garden, play area, pier, restrooms and beach access with boat A LLYN launch.

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TWANOH STATE PARK 106

UNION 106

Visitor Information

Excellent camping, swimming, kayaking, picnic sites, and shellfish harvesting.

Currently Closed to Shellfish Harvest GRAPEVIEW

UNION CITY MARKET

921 WA-106, Union | (360) 426-2222 Direct farm to market retail includes Hood Canal oysters at the general store located on the farm.

3 101 S 1st St

Visitor Information

E Pine St

HOPE ISLAND STATE PARK

c Hwy S SE Olympi

101

CHELSEA FARMS OYSTER BAR

KA M I LC H E

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 Visitor Information 101

al.com

Each July, enjoy vendors, wine and beer garden, live music and seafood throughout the weekend. allyntown.com

Local Seafood:

Here are a few locations that serve local Hood Canal & South Puget Sound seafood. Call for hours & reservations.

Bistro at Lakeland Village

Robin Hood Restaurant

Boat House Restaurant

Smoking Mo’s

Hama Hama Oyster Saloon

Spencer Lake Bar & Grill

Hook & Fork

Squaxin Island Seafood Bar

Model T Pub & Eatery

Taylor Station

Restaurant at Alderbrook

Tides Family Restaurant

18340 E WA 3, Allyn (360) 275-2954

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.

3

er and Arcadia

ALLYN DAYS & GEODUCK FESTIVAL | Allyn, WA

470 E Country Club Dr, Allyn (360) 277-4137

02

ON

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.

5101 E State Route 106 | Union | (360) 898-3500 3 Art, gifts, seafood and grocery items and seasonal cafe DNR 24/GRAPEVIEW, DNR beach clams and oysters open within a working marina. all year. Access by boat only.

HUNTER FARMS 101

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

NORTH BAY

ALLYN

Expansive beach (at low tide), picnic area, and views of the Olympics.

RENDSLAND CREEK, DNR owned clams and oysters open all year.

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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.

BELFAIR STATE PARK

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tion

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.

Small beach with dramatic view of the Olympics. Lots of ripe berries in late summer.

From Belfair: take the Befair-Tahuya Road to Dewatto Rd. Continue four miles to Dewatto.

Parking limited.

when tide is out, obey cellent oyster beach. swimming in summer. m Eagle Creek Saloon.

PORT

HAMA HAMA OYSTER SALOON 35846 US-101, Lilliwaup 5th generation farm serves oysters prepared to order with an ever changing menu of seasonal local ingredients. Retail store and farm dining. hamahamaoyster.com

DEWATTO BAY

HAMMA HAMMA

L ILL I WAUP

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.

35846 US-101, Lilliwaup (360) 877-5811

5101 E State Route 106, Union (360) 898-3500 24281 N US 101, Hoodsport (360) 877-9883 10 E Alderbrook Dr, Union (360) 898-2200

6790 E State Route 106, Union (360) 490-8168 233 S. 1st St, Shelton (360) 462-0163 1180 E Pickering Rd, Shelton (360) 426-2505

91 West State Route 108, Shelton (360) 432-7120 62 SE Lynch Rd, Shelton (360) 426-8501 27061 US-101, Hoodsport (360) 877-8921

View more area dining at explorehoodcanal.comFJORD 33

Pacific Oyster

Manila Clam

Go play on the beach.

HARVEST SHELLFISH

Come prepared with license (purchase online: fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov), shovel, gloves, buckets, boots to harvest clams and oysters on Hood Canal and South Puget Sound beaches. Regulations vary from beach to beach— ALWAYS check the rules at wdfw.wa.gov before harvesting.

Purchase your license online: FISHHUNT.DFW.WA.GOV Toll-free: (866) 246-9453

DAILY LIMIT:

How to CATCH a bi valv e...

1.

K18 OYSTERSL Oysters consumed on beach

XCHECK TIDE

count toward a limit.

Look at a tide chart online for the bay or inlet you are harvesting.

The lower the tide the bigger the reward!

oysters

Oysters may only be harvested by hand or with a hand-held manually operated prying tool (no hammers, etc.). Min. size 2.5” measured across longest distance of shell.

the Shellfish Emergency Rule Change Hotline (866) 880-5431, or contact the WDFW customer service desk (360) 902-2700.

Each harvester must use a separate container.

I

your Beach for clams, oysters, or 2. musselsCheck at wdfw.wa.gov/places-to-go/shellfish-beaches,

claim the Clams

DAILY LIMIT: K40 CLAMSL

I

Look for little sand holes/dimples called the “show.”

MANILAS (2-4” deep) & LITTLENECKS (6-10”) can be found using a rake. Use a shovel for BUTTERS (1-1.5’ below the surface) and GEODUCK (3’).

Fill Holes

To reduce clam mortality, push undersized clams into the refilled hole.

Geoduck

Mussel

I

Aw Shucks

Oysters must be shucked on the beach. Leave shells on the same tideland and tide height where they were taken.

Clam limit not to exceed 10 lbs in the shell, all species combined [excluding horse (7) & geoducks (3)].

sand purge

Manilas, litttlenecks and small butters should soak in cold seawater for at least 4 hours to purge sand and grit.

Purchase Licenses locally

BAYSHORE TEXACO 3841 SR# 3, Shelton | (360) 427-0709 FRED MEYER #603 Shelton | (360) 427-2979 VERLE’S LLC 741 E Golden Pheasant Rd, Shelton (360) 426-0933 | Verles.com WALMART 2121 Shelton | (360) 427-6226

mussel seasons in Puget Sound are the same as clam seasons on each beach. No min. size. Daily limit 10 lbs. in shell.

WE'RE HERE TO HELP: Hoodsport Visitor Center 150 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport | (800) 576-2021

North Mason Chamber Visitor Center 30 NE Romance Hill Rd, Belfair, WA | (360) 275-4267

Shelton Visitor Center

FJORD 34 The Red Caboose, 230 W Railroad Ave (360) 426-2021

Enjoy the Fjord's autumn bounty Ron Adams, Verle's | recreation contributor

This area is as unique as it is beautiful just like the people that live here. It is now fall and my favorite season. The crisp mornings, cooler days and changing colors seem to awaken something deep within me. I start thinking about the bountiful harvest and opportunities that await and the pursuit thereof makes me feel one with nature.

Hello again to all my friends and readers of this magazine in which I am privileged to share in its excellence. No other publication showcases the absolute majesty of our area as does the Fjord and I am very humbled to be part of it.

Fall is nearly here. It is primal – the hunter gatherer instinct of my ancestors begins running hot through my blood. I cannot escape it! The lakes are abundant with fish and in their prime. Washington's Department of Fish and Wildlife raises trout in hatcheries and plants them in the spring and early summer and by fall they have acclimated to their natural surroundings.

They have thrived on a diet found in the nutrition rich lakes rather than hatchery kibble. The water is colder making their protein rich meat firmer and the natural food puts a red tint to the meat. The flavor is outstanding. The angler also finds they will challenge your angling skills in every way. I absolutely love it.

Fishing however is not only limited to lakes. Local rivers offer fantastic opportunities for those bold enough to try. I've spent countless hours on surrounding rivers such as the Wynoochee, Humptulips, Skokomish, and Satsop chasing an elusive Steelhead or one of the many species of salmon that return to the rivers to spawn.

Many times, I have walked back to my vehicle with arms dragging from fighting these powerful fish but always grinning with a great feeling of accomplishment.

Ron Adams, Pro Staff drive to go out into the Pacific Ocean compelling them to live their entire lives within the Hood Canal and Puget Sound.

They usually aren't as big as their ocean traveling counterparts but their table fare is superior due to a higher fat content.

They are extraordinarily strong and a challenge to any fisherman worth his salt.

Crabbing on the Hood Canal in the fall is also one of my favorites. The crab have had a chance to fill with meat after molting and are sweeter. Normally I would also suggest taking the family out to harvest clams and oysters. However, be aware of recent closures to over harvesting on public beaches. Consider visiting a local shellfish companies to get your 'fix' of favorite bivalves. This also helps support part of our local economy.

Mushroom picking is exceedingly popular at this time of year. Trek your way along rivers or up to a vantage point which offers views that will take your breath away.

These activities uphold social distancing at its very finest. I encourage you to obtain as much information as possible to make the best experience you can have for you and your family. Preparation is key. Make sure you visit state websites for rapidly changing updates on regulations and closures. Stop by and visit us at Verle's if you have any questions or need advice on gear.

The Hood Canal also boasts some of the best fighting and tasting fish you will find in the Pacific Northwest. The locals call them blackmouth. Blackmouth are King Salmon that are released later in the year out of the hatcheries and for some reason this later release somewhat suppresses their

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Verle’s Sporting Goods in Shelton is a great place to get the equipment and local knowledge you will need to be successful. We work ridiculously hard to supply fishing, crabbing, and clamming gear, as well as maps, licenses and equipment for an enjoyable outdoor experience. Our staff is willing to go above and beyond because we want you to enjoy the area we call home and share in the bounty this wonderful place has to offer.

Verle’s also has a full line of Marine Parts and Service shop. This is a great time to let us professionally winterize and wrap your boat to ensure it's ready for next season.

Be sure to check out the great boats with a Northwest focus including Hewes Craft, Alumaweld and Smokercraft. Yamaha, Suzuki and Mercury outboards along with Garmin electronics, Coast Guard safety gear and more will complete your boat package. Follow us on Facebook, @Verle’s LLC, and Instagram, @verles llc, for current in store specials and more.

Thank you for your patronage through these trying times. We have been honored to receive the support we have been given by all those who frequent our store.

So again, Thank-you.

Ron Adams, Verle’s Pro staff.

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Salmon

Fall heralds the annual return Stella Wenstob | contributor As the weather chills, local streams and rivers are festooned with shades of orange and red of the turning leaves. Fall also marks the last weeks in the life cycle of many salmon species who return upstream to spawn.

Using a sense not completely understood by biologists, millions of migratory salmon return to their home streams to lay eggs.

After swimming upstream to their spawning ground the female chooses a spot in the shallow, but swift flowing part of the river that is ensured to be highly oxygenated, called the riffle. In some of the inland streams that location can be many hundreds of miles up rapids and past many impediments. Here she digs a depression in the gravel that will serve as her nest or redd. The males will put on an impressive show biting and jumping to show their dominance and protect their chosen female from other males. After the eggs are laid in the redd, the male will deposit sperm over them, and the female will cover the eggs with gravel to protect them. A female may create as many as seven redds before she is FJORD

finished spawning and each redd may hold as many as 5,000 eggs.

As soon as the salmon enter the fresh water their skins begin to change color, their sexual dimorphism enhances, they stop eating and they begin their decaying process. A migrating salmon typically lives for about two weeks after entering the freshwater.

The carcasses provide an important food source to other animals and small invertebrates who in turn provide food for the salmon fry (baby salmon) as they get older.

Additionally, the nutrients given off by the rotting carcass are important fertilizers to the plants and trees growing on the banks, which in turn provide essential root systems that prevent erosion and protects the streams for further generations of salmon.

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There are seven species of salmon in the Pacific Northwest: Pink (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha), Sockeye (Oncorhynchus nerka), Coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch), Chum (Oncorhynchus keta), Chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss), and Cutthroat (Oncorhynchus clarki clarki).

All of these species have very different life-cycles – some spend several years before they migrate up streams; some can run and spawn several times before dying; some only spawn at the mouth of streams, where others need to spawn in lakes at the head of rivers. This unique phenomenon of the salmon running can be viewed in streams and rivers all across the Hood Canal and South Puget Sound.

Salmon viewing Kennedy Creek

The Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail located off of Hwy 101. 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, this trail was once part of a network of Native American trails that connected Puget Sound to 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. The salmon running may be viewed from the creek bank.

Salmon Center

The Salmon Center in Belfair hosts exhibits on salmon ecology and operate salmon traps on the Union River (off of Hwy 300) that record returns of adult summer Chums.

Twanoh Creek On the South Shore of the Hood Canal, Twanoh Creek in Twanoh State Park offers good vantage points to view running salmon.

Purdy Creek At the bend of the Hood Canal on a tributary of the Skokomish Watershed is George Adams Fish Hatchery run by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Each spring they release 500,000 juvenile Coho into the Purdy Creek.

Hoodsport The Hoodsport Fish Hatchery located in Hoodsport does not offer scheduled tours, but in the fall the WDFW offers very popular Chum salmon fishing classes from the beach out front of the hatchery.

Quilcene The Quilcene National Hatchery has been run continuously since 1911. Now focusing on Coho stock, the Quilcene National Hatchery has raised nearly every species of salmon. The hatchery successfully reintroduced Chum salmon back to the Big Quilcene River and increased winter Steelhead populations of the Puget Sound.

More Salmon Viewing Situated in the Belfair State Park are the Big Mission and Little Mission Creeks, which offer great salmon viewing. A little north of the North Shore Road following Elfendahl Pass Rd is Stimson Creek, also a good place to view spawning salmon.

For a list of salmon spotting sites, WDFW have created an interactive multi-layer map called SalmonScape, wdfw.wa.gov/salmonscape, that shows the streams and tributaries used by migratory salmon in the state.

Come discover your new business location and experience the natural beauty and outdoor opportunities of our county.

360-426-2276

37 Choos eM as on .com

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photo: Salmon Center

COVID-19 inspires growth at Belfair farm Alexandra Ehrich | Salmon Center If you’ve ever stopped by the Salmon Center, you’ve inevitably visited the Farm at Water’s Edge. When you pull into the parking lot, you’re usually greeted by curious stares from the alpacas, hear the call of a rooster, or spy rows of produce. This small farm demonstrates the coexistence of salmon, humans, and sustainable practices.

1013 chums in Union River

Belfair According to the Salmon Center, over 1,000 summer chum have made it through the Union River trap. The Salmon Center monitors the Union River chum in order to ascertain how other watersheds are doing in regards to summer Chum recovery.

The Union River is the only large spawning aggregation in the south Hood Canal and on the Kitsap Peninsula, so it is very important to know the abundance, productivity, and survival rates to compare it to other watersheds which may not be as stable or healthy.

This will help scientists determine what steps to take in other watersheds to further summer chum recovery.

Follow the return results, as well as sign-up to volunteer on one of HCSEG’s salmon research and restoration projects on their website: pnwsalmoncenter.org. Running the Union River fish trap around the clock is no small feat, and thanks the growing community of dedicated volunteers. Stewards of the salmon, they play a significant role in preserving a sacred Pacific Northwest ecosystem for generations to come. pnwsalmoncenter.org

The farm is a neighbor to the Union River estuary, a delicate ecosystem restored by the Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group (HCSEG). Home to countless species of birds, aquatic creatures, Hood Canal Summer Chum, mammals, and plant life, in order for the Union River estuary to continue to thrive, thoughtful practices at the Farm at Water’s Edge are crucial.

The farm grows organic produce for the community by donation-only, and also provides hundreds of pounds of produce for local food banks and shelters every year.

There are also several community garden plots available as well. Home to a small herd of alpacas, a llama, goats, chickens, guinea fowl, ducks, and a rabbit, last year the farm created ADA accessible pathways and garden beds in the U-Pick garden, and this summer a honeybee hive and pollinator garden was installed near the back fields.

The farm hopes to use its new hive to enrich the surrounding ecosystem, as well as be a tool to teach about bees, pollinators, native plants, and introductory beekeeping.

COVID-19 has made 2020 a foreboding time for the entire world. Nonetheless, Farm at Water’s Edge was determined to continue addressing community need for healthy produce - as well as provide a place for visitors to find peace in nature.

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In response to the mandatory safety measures, organizers developed online ordering with no-contact pick-up. Customers visit pnwslamoncenter.org, choose produce, include a donation of their choice, then pick-up their box of produce at the Salmon Center the following day.

The enthusiastic reception encouraged the development of a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture Program). The farm’s most recent shares were claimed almost instantly! Participants receive produce and eggs in bi-weekly boxes until late October, as well as helpful recipes. The Farm at Water’s Edge has used this time to grow and are committed to finding more ways to reach under-served populations that are struggling during this time. If you are interested in volunteering, supporting, or learning more about the Farm at Water’s Edge, please visit pnwsalmoncenter.org for contacts and information.

HCSEG would like to send out an immense thank you to volunteers who have been assisting staff on the farm while following all safety and social distancing measures. The farm and Union River Estuary walking trails are open to the public to visit but please be safe and respectful of each other’s space. The gardens are still closed for picking and produce MUST be ordered online.

The Farm at Water’s Edge overlooks the Union River Estuary at 38the tip of Hood Canal. photo: Salmon Center

Stella Wenstob | story and photos

the elusive forest

mycelium The sweet sun lit days have grown shorter and the first rains of the equinox are upon us. Do not despair, the days of Fall bring their own source of wonder. The nutrient influx of fallen leaves and the raised humidity of inclement weather support a whole new community of fascinating organisms. Mushrooms season is here! The mild winters and constant rain of the Pacific Northwest creates a mecca for mushroom enthusiasts.

The Pacific Northwest hosts over a thousand species of mushrooms.

Many of which are edible. However, identification is difficult with potentially dire results as Washington State is also home to some of the deadliest mushrooms.

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Mushrooms are only the fruiting body stage of a rootlike organism called mycelium.

It is as though an apple was the only part you saw of an apple tree. The mycelium that produces the mushroom exists underground and can be quite expansive.

Mushrooms are produced when favorable conditions occur, such as adequate humidity, nutrients, and temperature, as they are part of the reproductive stage of the mycelium to propagate the species by dispersing spores (their version of seeds).

Although mushrooms and plants share similar features, mushrooms are not a plant. They do not contain chlorophyl the substance that makes plants green and which derives the plants nutrients from sunlight. Instead, mushrooms are classified as a Fungi. Rather than using sunlight for energy, the mushroom-producing fungi species are broken into three different groups: saprobes, parasites, and mycorrhizal fungi. Saprobes derive nutrients from the decomposition of organic matter, such as leaves, rotten wood, feces, and even carcasses of animals.

The widely distributed Liberty Cap (Psilocybe semilanceata) is a popular albeit illegal variety of saprobe and is one of the varieties known colloquially as ‘Shrooms that contain psilocybin, a compound that produces psychoactive effects.

Parasitic fungi take nutrients from a host organism, be it animal, plant, or other

fungi and in the process weaken or kill the host. The easily identified Lobster Mushroom (Hypomyces lactifluorum) with its bright orange hue parasitizes upon another variety of mushroom. Interestingly, the host species of the Lobster Mushroom is often considered unpalatable – so in this case the mold makes for a better tasting product.

The third group is the mycorrhizal fungi, which form a symbiotic relationship with their host tree or plants by breaking down nutrients making it easier for the host to absorb these micro-nutrients. The prized chanterelle family (for example C. subalbidus) form symbiotic associations with oaks and many varieties of conifers.

Pacific Northwest is home to over a thousand documented species. Many of which are edible. However, identification is a tricky process with potentially dire results as this area is also home to some

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of the deadliest mushrooms. Additionally, because nearly 80% of the mushrooms body is water, their quick rate of growth, and their ability to absorb nutrients with impunity, they are highly susceptible to concentrating environmental toxins. To avoid this, mushrooms must not be picked in polluted areas or areas where heavy metals and pesticides may accumulate, such as alongside highways (from exhaust fumes), near old buildings (the leaching of lead-based paint) or near logging slashes, farmer’s fields, and golf courses (exposed to pesticides and herbicides). Cooking is recommended to remove many of the natural toxins that certain mushrooms may concentrate.

Some varieties can also produce adverse effects when paired with alcohol or eaten within 48 hours of consuming alcohol.

Some individuals may also experience allergic reactions to certain varieties of mushrooms, which others do not experience. Broadly, mushrooms can be very dangerous if not consumed carefully.

However, wild mushrooms are a culinary treat and are a satisfying way to taste the forests. The same absorption process which can concentrate heavy metals and toxins in mushrooms in adverse conditions, may also precipitate nutrient richness and increase flavor of the mushroom in good conditions.

In a manner similar to oysters and fine wines, mushroom flavors reflect their environment through a subtle terroir.

Domesticated mushrooms are known to be low in calories, rich in proteins, and abounding in important vitamins such as B, C and D. Their wild cousins are not well understood, but the health benefits of a naturally grown fungi, free of pesticides is obvious. Shelton’s own Paul Stamet is a mycology pioneer, with numerous mushroom-based patents to his name. Stamet grows mushroom cultures in his laboratory at Fungi Perfecti (fungi. com) for researchers to study the medicinal properties of wild mushrooms. Most recently, Stamet has been working with Dr. Steve Sheppard, the head of Entomology and a honeybee research expert at Washington State University, to save the bees by exploring ways to boost bee immunity through mycelial extracts.

Get involved Don't be limited by childhood fears of fairy rings or mycophobia (the fear of mushroom poisoning), embrace Pacific Northwest’s rich fungal community. Teach yourself mushroom identification through the many resources available, such as online identification classes, videos, websites, and good old-fashioned guidebooks. Join a local group such as the Puget Sound Mycological Society (Seattle, psms.org), Olympic Peninsula Mycological Society (OPMS) (Chimacum, olymushroom.org) and the South Sound Mushroom Club (Olympia, southsoundmushroomclub.com).

Although the current pandemic has greatly limited group meetings and events, each society has a useful website with links to other online resources and book recommendations as well as helpful hints and upcoming mushroom events (such as organized mushroom “forays” and small ID workshops). These societies also support information rich Facebook groups with plenty of user interaction which is a great way to get in touch with the mycology community in our socially distant times.

The Pacific Northwest Mushroom Social Club is another Facebook group which offers plenty of user interaction, including forum discussions of mushroom identification.

Shop local If you still want to taste this bounty without any fear of a misidentification, there are many local mushroom farmers in the Hood Canal area that grow local varieties as well as other popular varieties. Duckabush Mushrooms specialize in Shitake mushrooms and they also feature a full line of medicinal mushroom powders.

Skokomish Ridge Mushrooms is a cooperative organization offering a large variety of mushrooms including King Trumpets, Lion’s Mane and Maitake mushrooms for sale at farmers markets, restaurants, local grocery stores and through the cooperative online storefront South Sound Fresh.

Photography tips Mushrooms also offer a feast for the eyes.

Photographing fungi in the wild is a good excuse to go exploring. However, be careful, as staring at the ground getting lost in the wonder at your feet, may be disorientating and result in you losing your sense of direction as well. When exploring in the forest it is good idea to bring a buddy; a compass and a map or GPS (and knowledge of how to use them); water and some snacks. Letting someone know where you are going and when you plan to be back is also a good precaution.

iNaturalist app iNaturalist offers a fun way to test your identification skills and interact with an online community while you are on your mission of discovery (or after, when you have wifi again). Users of iNaturalist

upload photographs and geographical marker pins of specimens (such as mushrooms, as well as other flora and fauna) along with an identification of the species.

Other users verify identification and this information is used by researchers to mark distribution and potentially population of a species. Not only does this expand your knowledge, but it also contributes to citizen science and aids further research.

Home cultivation Mushroom cultivation is a fairly intuitive process and kits are sold locally promoting productive backyard or basement crops.

For information, kits and “plugs spawns” visit Stamet’s fungi.com. Plug spawns are inserted or ‘inoculated’ in decaying deciduous logs to artificially create mushroom crops.

Whether your mushroom encounters are casual musing on the fruiting body, or careful examination and sampling, or maybe just supporting a local mushroom grower, enjoy the bounty that the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

Further reading All that the Rain Promises and More David Arora Mushroom | Nicholas Money The Mushroom Cultivator | Paul Stamet Mycophilia | Eugenia Bone The Mushroom Hunters | Langdon Cook

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Night Dives at Sund Rock Marine Preserve YSS Dive and the Sund family together, will be offering exclusive night dive opportunities at Sund Rock Marine Preserve and the Project Aware Specialty Certification on ocean conservation.

A dive site we all know and love and is even more spectacular at night! There will be limited numbers of spots available on these special nights and a small fee of $15.00 gains entry. To pay the small fee and reserve your spot contact YSS Dive directly at (360)-877-2318. This will fill up fast and space is limited.

rinse area up top. In exchange we ask that you sign in, pay a fee, take any trash you create with you, drive slowly up the road, take pictures and observe sea life from a distance, be aware the effect of excessive finning has on visibility and organisms, no harvesting of any kind, and close/lock the gate behind you."

From the Sund Rock website: "Simply by loving the site so much, our overuse of the area has taken a toll. The family considers the beach to be a partnership of sorts.

We will provide limited access, a maintained road, porta potty, gear up benches, monitored entry and continue to add amenities such as a picnic area, a campsite, better lighting and hopefully a fresh water

Exclusive Sund Rock at Night

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 7:30 – 9:30 PM FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 7:30 – 9:30 PM FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 7:30 - 9:30 PM FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 7:30 - 9:30 PM

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Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31, 9 – 12 PM Hoodsport

Carving pumpkins into Jack-O-lanterns has been a Halloween tradition for centuries. But you can count on scuba divers who call the ocean their second home, to turn this simple tradition into something exciting and take it underwater. Yes, we’re talking about carving pumpkins underwater! Join YYS for this annual tradition in Hoodsport, WA! All you need is a pumpkin, a dive knife and a little creativity to take part in this fun tradition. Winners will get cool prizes and bragging rights. Prizes for most creative, best carved, and many more! For more information call YSS Dive in Hoodsport at (360) 877-2318 or visit yssdive.com.

THINGS TO DO

FALLS TO FISHING

43 MAP/LODGING

SHELTON & KAMILCHE

46 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.

Everyday, people come to Hood Canal to disconnect from their day-to-day, and reconnect with themselves, families, and with nature. Most will leave wishing they had just a little more time to stay.

MAP/LODGING HOOD CANAL AREA

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HOOD CANAL IS WASHINGTON’S #WILD SIDE. Choose your next best adventure.

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

43 canal with colossal peaks towering overhead.

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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.

MOTORSPORTS

T he 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.

CLEAR YOUR MIND AND

FALL FOR WATERFALLS Hamma Hamma & Lake Kokanee are just two of the many falls waiting to be explored. The best time to view area waterfalls is in the spring while the weather is warmer but there is still plenty of run off from the mountains.

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.

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.

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TAKE A LEAP

PICK A PEAK

We love the folks at SKYDIVE KAPOWSIN! Feel the

Mason County is shadowed by amazing heights!

adrenaline pumping rush of free-fall and experience

From easy day hikes with the family to overnights

the freedom of the air with highly trained professional

or “experience needed” excursions – you don’t

instructors. Views of the fjord and the Olympics and

have to go far for spectacular memories!

a seven minute free fall adrenaline rush from 13,000 feet will definitely change your outlook.

TASTING YOUR WAY AROUND THE

CANAL & SOUND You can do the loop tasting farm-to-table PHOTO: TOBY TAHJA-SYRETT

dining experiences pairing with stops at the best tasting rooms in the Northwest.

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.

4545

FJORD

SIX DESTINATION GOLF COURSES

Meticulously nestled in the forests and hillsides of Hood Canal, these highly rated courses will showcase the best of your golf game. Enjoy incredible views of the Olympic Mountains as you drive down lush fairways and putt on pristine greens. With a different course to play every day of the week and dining nearby to celebrate the 19th hole, Hood Canal is an ideal destination for the golfing enthusiast in all of us.

ALDERBROOK

(360) 898-2560 | Union, WA alderbrookgolf.com Rated as one of the top 25 courses in the Northwest for spectacular scenery and playability, this par 72 course follows the natural contours of the land.

Restaurant, lounge & pro shop.

LAKE CUSHMAN

(360) 877-5505 | Hoodsport, WA lakecushmangolfcourse.com Nestled in the forest of the Olympic Mountains above Hoodsport & Hood Canal is this 9-hole course with dual tees which plays an 18 holes. Open driving range, putting green, and practice bunker.

SALISH CLIFFS

LAKE LIMERICK GOLF CLUB

(360) 462-3673 | Kamilche, WA salish-cliffs.com Salmon-safe 18 hole par 72 championship golf course created by architect Gene Bates. Clubhouse serves lunch and dinner. Adjacent to the Little Creek Casino Resort, a full service luxury resort & casino.

(360) 426-6290 | Shelton, WA www.lakelimerickgolf.com A quiet and picturesque tree lined course. Gentle hills make this a challenging Par 72 and a fun round of golf. Facilities include Pro Shop, Cafe, and Cart Rentals. Social Memberships Available.

SHELTON SPRINGS DISC

masoncountydiscgolf.com Looking for a different type of golf?

This 18 hole disc golf course is located at the intersection of Wallace Kneeland Blvd & Shelton Springs Rd.

LAKELAND VILLAGE

(360) 275-6100 | Allyn, WA lakelandliving.com Majestic views of the Olympics and Rainier, 27 holes with driving ranges, putting greens, practice chipping, and bunker areas. Dining clubhouse.

ITINERARY 1:

UNION AND THE WATERS OF SOUTH HOOD CANAL TAKE A DIP

Famous for its warm waters, Twanoh State Park is a 182 acre park with 3,167 feet of saltwater shoreline. Campground is open yearround. parks.wa.gov

DEEP RUN THE WATERS

Hood Canal is the only saltwater fjord in the lower United States.

FJORD Depths exceed 600’ in Dabob Bay, averaging 500’ in the channel.

BRUNCH ON THE DOCK

The Union City Market now offers 'Appy Hour and weekend brunch at their Hook and Fork location in Union.

HUNT FOR TREASURES

Pick through a treasure trove of antiques or a curated boutique of keepsakes when you shop on the wild side of Washington. 46

46

BIRDING

With a majestic and varied landscape as a background, Hood Canal is a gorgeous place to come search for the over 250 species that call the Olympic Peninsula home. Chock full of life-birds like bald eagles, rhinoceros aucklets and more on premiere birding trails with helpful self-guided trail maps, this is a birder's paradise!

SCUBA DIVING

MUSIC & FESTIVALS

Hood Canal is known among scuba divers worldwide for its gentle currents and curious rock formations. Lessons and equipment are available at various locations in Hood Canal.

Usually there is endless series of entertainment to be enjoyed in the Hood Canal area, but with the recent COVID restrictions many events are canceled until social distancing guidelines deem it safe enough to gather.

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 wild octopi while providing habitat to an array of seabirds.There's hardly a better way to take it all in than on the water.

47

FJORD

Shelton is the westernmost city on Puget Sound, practically with one foot in Olympic National Park. Featuring a bustling heritage core, Shelton’s

ITINERARY 2: SHELTON AREA

The Captain's Retreat Vacation Rental | 111 E Shoreline Ln, Shelton | 206-817-8490

N

Harstine Island Beach Cabin | 21 E Dana Dr, Shelton | (253) 943-5264 | harstinerental.com

N

Little Creek Casino Resort | W 91 State Route 108, Shelton | (800) 667-7711 | little-creek.com

O

Pirates Cove Caboose | 202 E Pirates Creek Rd, Shelton | 569-2799 | greatgetaways.com

N

Riptide Crafting Retreat | 291 East Agate Beach Dr , SheltonHammersly Inlet | riptideretreat.com

N

Shelton Inn | 628 W Railroad Ave, Shelton | 426-4468 | sheltoninn.com

•

•

•

•

•

•

B

•

•

Waterview

•

Boat Rentals

B

RV Sites

Kitchen

SHELTON AREA LODGING*

Lake (L)Beach (B)

GET YOUR GAME ON Roll the dice for exciting nightlife at LITTLE CREEK CASINO RESORT & LUCKY DOG CASINO (open soon)

Pool (P) Spa (S)

Take a ride on modified group rail bikes with Vance Creek Railriders.

CELEBRATING A RICH TIMBER HISTORY

Pets OK

RIDE THE RAILS

SHELTON

DO A DRIVE-IN Celebrate nostalgia at the SKYLINE DRIVE-IN theatre; now open..

Telephone

GET YOUR RACE ON The RIDGE MOTORSPORTS PARK hosts events and karting, car, and motorcycle events.

FIRST SETTLERS SQUAXIN ISLAND TRIBE MUSEUM depicts the People of the Water’s relationship with Puget Sound.

TV/Cable

A lively Saturday Market and boutique & antique shops add diversity.

landscape is dominated by colossal cedar, spruce, and fir trees which lend naturally to its self-proclaimed title of “Christmas Tree Capital.”

Wi/Fi

MARKET WATCH

WINERY TOUR Visit the highly awarded WALTER DACON WINERY for tours and tastings

Dining: Onsite (O) Nearby (N)

FOREST ROOTS Explore SHELTON HISTORICAL MUSEUM, early life on Puget Sound, Hood Canal, and working in the woods.

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B

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•

•

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Shelton Casita | Harstine Island | 360-927-6404 allynhouseinn.com

N

•

•

•

S

B

•

•

Shelton Loft | Harstine Island | 360-927-6404 allynhouseinn.com

N

•

•

•

S

B

•

•

Shelton Lodge | Harstine Island | 360-927-6404 allynhouseinn.com

N

•

•

•

B

•

•

Shore Lane Beach House | E Shoreline, Shelton | (206) 999-1720

N

•

•

•

B

•

•

Super 8 Motel | 2943 Northview Circle, Shelton | 426-1654 | super8.com

N

•

•

•

*Phone number area code 360, unless otherwise specified.

48 FJORD 48

•

•

P •

Ta hu ya Riv

Fin ch

No

Cr k

Hood

E

Cana

ALLYN Waterfront park features AL LYN gazebo and lawns, play Anderson Lake area, and beach access.

NO FEE/PASS

l

TAH UYA

Potlatch State Park

Rock Crk

kum oo Sk

108

Crk

101

S

let In Ca

se

Ln

SE Lynch

let In

ku m

nch SE Ly

ke

To tten I nle t

Lit t

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oo Sk

Ka m ilc h e

N ew Ka m i l c h e 101

Totten Inlet

Totten Inlet

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

SCHAFER STATE PARK TRAIL THE KENNEDY CREEK SALMON TRAIL Trails, interpretive center, swimming, fishing.

Chum salmon are on view as they make their way up river TO GO: 12 miles north of Elma on the East Fork TOPOGRAPHY: flat, viewing platforms, interpretive signs of the Satsop River. The park is also accessible TO GO: Hwy 101, Old Olympic Hwy; weekends, seasonally. via the Brady exit from Hwy 12.

49 NO FEE/ PASS DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED

Dr

slan d Jarrell Cr k

S End Rd

Island Rd S

ge

sa HOPE ISLAND STATE Pas PARK Donly by water.

106 acre park Pugetreachable Sound 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

a

La

Rd

wn

Hope Island State Park

Harstine Island

an

E Agate Rd

Is

y Ba nd la ak O

WALKER PARK Beach access, playground, restrooms, picnic shelter, kayak access.

NO FEE/PASS Fa

Dr

ou th

N 13th St S 1st St

S 10th St

W G

SQUAXIN ISLAND TRIBE MUSEUM Stories, photos, art, artifacts dating back over 500 years. TO GO: Hwy 101 to Kamilche exit , follow signs. ADMISSION CHARGE

Squaxin Island

Mill Cr k

nell Crk os

TAYLOR SHELLFISH STORE Fresh seafood, tours available; open to public.

Hwy 101 to Taylor Towne Exit.

d lan

age

allum Cr k oqu

Isabella Lake

Timber Lake

Arcadia

SE Arcadia Rd

3

Cr k

Pass

k Cr

Cl

Campbell

Jacobys Shorecrest County Park mersley Inlet Ham

Arcadia Ave

Agate

k Cr

HARSTINE ISLAND TRAIL 300 acres to explore McMicken EASY 1.5 mile, beach Island NO FEE/PASS

Peale

Rock

vd Bl

c Hwy S SE Olympi

ISABELLA LAKE TRAILS Dayton Peak EASY 2.5 mile loop, rolling meadows TO GO: Hwy 101 exit at SR#3 to Golden Pheasant Rd, right on Delight Park Rd. NO FEE/PASS

La

ee Coff

E Pine St

Turner Ave

ke

Cr k

w

oad Ave

Rd

n Jo h

ES

Jo hn sP rai rie E

or t Air p

t

Matlock

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hel

on

Railr

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101

cle Un

Jarrell Cove State Park S En d Rd

Rd

B a y s h o re

3 N

WS

information, handouts, and maps

Rd

ring

hn s Jo

Rd

E Wallace lvd B Kneeland E K St St EI

ic mp Oly y N Hw

SHELTON

borough lds Cr Go k

um uall loq WC

es Jon rk C

icke

k

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SHELTON VISITOR CENTER TO GO: Red Caboose on Railroad Avenue

White Star

EP

Cr

ES

Island Lake

Phillips Lake

Crk

e

102

Rd

on ayt WD

Lost Lake

Spencer Lake

E Nor th I

Cr

nt Wi

ill St

k

Cr

y Cr k

Lake Limerick

101

DAY TO N

er at

Cr

Crk

HUNTER FARMS Farm Market, seasonal events; Visitor Center

r

d

err anb

Stretch Point State Park

d ff R uto yC urd EP

Riv

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

DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED W Shelto n Ma tloc kR

Crk

Reach Island

G ra p e vi e w

3 Shumocher

Pickering Passage

ish

k

d oo rw S he

De er C rk

rk

b Bo

Sk a

S KOKOM I S H

om

Cr k

North Bay

Fair Harbor

Benson Lake

Maso

k Cr Weaver

n La ke

ir

106

C

VICTOR

Annas Bay

Skokomish Indian Reservation

and

302

am tre

106

UNI ON

Kirkl

Be lfa Cr k

Ir

rk

Rd ore Sh

Bay Rd

en dsland

orth EN

101

rk i C Enat

ok

Co ult er

Ho od C

m

rth

N

Twanoh State Park

Sk

Stre

Maggie Lake

POT LATCH

Lake West

a

202

Grisdale Hill

F

Belfair State Park

C

l Crk Hil

Potlatch State Park Campground

NE O ld

De wa

an al

Rd

N Lake Cus hm an

Crk

C

Ha rp

on

Crk

R

Taggert Crk Mc

Fl at Cr k

Crk

ya R d

rk

Lake Kokanee

Frigid Crk

ion

rk

s Stin

ee an

Finch

Dennie Ahl Hill

NE B elf air Tah u

HOODSPORT

k

BE L FA IR

300

C

Dow Crk

Kok Lk

Gibbon s C r

DEWATTO

Rd atto NE Dew

3

e en

Clark Crk

Hoodsport Trail State Park

is s

an

Sund Crk

Miller

Lake Haven

M

shm Cu

Crk

Wooten Lake

Dewatto Bay

Dow Mtn

119

n Creek ground

101

LI LLI WAU P

Brown Crk

Tahuya State Forest

Big

Lilliwaup Falls

Price Lake

ke La Cushman Hill

tto

Crk

Saddle Mtn

Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman

FJORD

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

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.

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

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

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 Tri t o n Triton Head

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). k Cr

101

Hamma Hamma Campground et Wak

ke h

ic

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

Ea gle k Cr tto B en dsland

rk

Fin ch

No ish

Riv

E

d fR

S

ke

Fair Harbor

Benson Lake

k

Cr

Crk

f uto yC urd EP

North Bay

d oo rw S he

G ra p e vi e w

3

50

Shumocher

Reach Island

Stretch Point State Park

Crk

let

ok

am

In

Cr k

tre

302

VICTOR

Anderson Lake

se

rk

S KOKOMI S H

om

Weaver

DALBY WATERWHEEL TO GO: SR#106

b Bo Sk a

FJORD Sk

y Rd

d

Ba orth EN

k Cr

C

Cr k

m

ir

106 lley R

Stre

Annas Bay

Skokomish Indian Reservation

AL LYN

106

UNI ON

and

er

al an Crk

C

Taggert Crk

Twanoh State Park

rk i C Enat

a

202

vehicle/vessel/fishing/hunting northmasonchamber.com

Potlatch State Park

Potlatch State Park Campground

Lake West

Kirkl

rth

TAH UYA

PASSES FOR PURCHASE

h Va

Belfair State Park

VISITOR CENTER/ BELFAIR LICENSING anal On Hwy 3 in Belfair TOCGO: o H od PASSES FOR PURCHASE Park/

Rd ore Sh

N

101

POT LATCH

– information, handouts, maps

Co ult

Rd

N Lake Cus hm an

dC

on

MENARD’S LANDING

C Expansive beach with panoramic views of Maggie Lake Olympics.

Picnic tables. NO FEE/PASS R

Mc l Crk Hil

BE L FA IR

s Stin

Crk

Grisdale Hill

Skok omis

DISCOVER PASS

3

e en

ya R d

rk

Lake Kokanee

HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER TO GO: Located just off Hwy 101 in Hoodsport

Crk

NE B elf air Tah u

Rd atto NE Dew

rk

HOODSPORT Finch

Frigid Crk

DEWATTO

Clark Crk

Hoodsport Trail State Park

k

Dennie Ahl Hill

Lake Haven

Dewatto Bay

C

Gibbon s C r

ion

Sund Crk

Miller

ee an

Crk

Wooten Lake

Riv

on ni

is s

Dow Mtn

Dow Crk

Kok Lk

Creek ground

101

LI LLI WAU P

119

Brown Crk

23,100 acre forest provides open spaces for sightseeing, camping, nature study, fishing, hiking,horse, ATV, ORV, and biking.

State Forest ATahuya “working forest” trail may be closed due to forest management activities.

TOPOGRAPHY deep woods TO GO: Hwy 300/Belfair 300 Tahuya Rd, 1.1 mile.

y Rd

M

Lilliwaup Falls

Price Lake

TAHUYA STATE FOREST

Big

Cushman Hill

a

tto wa

De wa

Saddle Mtn

Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman

Ha rp

Ri v

Lake Melbourne

Big Crk

Lake Cushman

Blacksmith Lake

De

119

Ayock

p Crk wau Lilli

Big Creek Campground

Hw y U

Lilliwaup Creek Campground Tenas Lake

od Skinwork C

Crk

North Br

Mt Rose

Be lfa ir

Big

h ulc r G Be a

Fl at Cr k

d

NE O ld

te rs Jo

Mt Ellinor

n La

Copper Mtn

Cr k

Mt Washington

Cr k

k

Ho o

Cr

Ir

Wa sh i ngt

o

oln

Jeffe r Crkson

Crk te la

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

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

SERVICES AT PORT OF DEWATTO CAMPGROUND

H AMMA H AMMA

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

Ca

k Cr

n

ELDO N

Maso

J

k Cr efferson

ar C rk

Big Missi

Mount Skokomish Wilderness Mt Pershing

Ced

Ta hu ya Riv

Jefferson Peak

Crk

Cruiser

n Crk

k Cr

rs o ffe Je

C rk

rk

Hamma Hamma River

ion Cr k

C

Miss

t so n Wa

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

on

Boulder Crk

Cr

e ors

Henderson

Lena Creek Campground

k

eh

Mt Skokomish

p le Ma

Wh it

Le Crke

Mt Stone

HAMMA HAMMA

HIKING & BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

Clamber up the rugged trails, tiptoe through the quiet old growth forest, or careen through the pristine meadows of Olympic National Forest & National Park. Shoulder your pack and experience the sights and sounds of the vast wilderness home to some of the most beautiful flora & fauna in the world. Ablaze with wildflowers in the spring, cool hidden swimming holes in the summer, a chance to see spawning salmon in the fall, and snow capped peaks in the winter, there is never an inopportune time to hike Hood Canal.

ITINERARY 3: HOODSPORT & NORTH HOOD CANAL

DIVE DEEPER

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Waterview

•

Boat Rentals

B

RV Sites

Kitchen

•

Pool (P) Spa (S)

•

Pets OK

B

Telephone

CUSHMAN, ELDON, HOODSPORT, POTLATCH & LILLIWAUP

TV/Cable

WEST HOOD CANAL LODGING

Lake (L)Beach (B)

Giant octopi, wolf eels and swarms of ancient rock cod add to the wonder of this special place. SNORKEL GEAR & SCUBA LESSONS, RENTALS AND CHARTERS available.

Wi/Fi

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.

Dining: Onsite (O) Nearby (N)

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.

Alice’s Little Beach House | Eldon | 877-9226

N

Blue Ox Beachfront Home | Hoodsport | 253-279-0837

N

•

Charnell House at Lake Cushman | Hoodsport | 360-893-6144

N

•

Creekside Inn | 27131 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | 877-9686 | creeksideinn-wa.com

N

Kokanee Ridge Vacation Rental | 542 NE Kokanee Ridge, Hoodsport | 360-731-6378

N

Glen Ayr Waterfront Resort | 25381 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | 877-9522 | glenayr.com

N

•

•

•

•

S B

•

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Mike’s Beach Resort | 38470 N Hwy 101, Lilliwaup | 877-5324 | mikesbeachresort.com

N

•

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S B

•

• • •

The Moose House at Lake Cushman | Lake Cushman, Hoodsport | (503) 393-6397

N

•

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Oliver's Waterfront Potlatch House | Lilliwaup | 360-796-3450

N

•

•

Pali-Kai Canal House | 327000 N Hwy 101, Lilliwaup | 426-2224

N

•

•

Sunrise Motel & Dive Resort | 24520 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | 877-5301

N

Little Red Beach House | Hoodsport | 360-796-3450

N

The Waterfront Beach House | Hoodsport | 206-321-8700

N

The Waterfront at Potlatch | 21660 N Hwy 101 | 877-9422 | thewaterfrontatpotlatch.com

N

•

•

The Yellow House | 23891 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | 877-6818 | hoodsportndive.com

N

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51

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•

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B

•

• • •

S B

•

•

•

•

•

•

FJORD

Waterview

•

Boat Rentals

B

RV Sites

Kitchen

Pool & Spa (S)

Pets OK

Telephone

N • • • •

Beach (B)

Allyn House Inn | 18350 State Route 3, Allyn | 535-2198 | allynhouseinn.com

TV/Cable

ALLYN

Wi/Fi

Dining: Onsite (O) Nearby (N)

ALLYN/BELFAIR/UNION*

• • •

BELFAIR Belfair Motel | 23322 NE State Route 3, Belfair | 275-4485 | belfairmotel.net

N • • • •

Luxury Waterfront Rental | Belfair | 360-271-2186 | explorehoodcanal.com

N

•

Sisters Point Waterfront Cabin | 12121 NE North Shore Road | 360-275-6816

N

•

• B

•

•

B

•

• •

Alderbrook Resort & Spa | 7101 E State Highway 106, Union | 898-2200 | alderbrookresort.com

O • • • • • B

•

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Dockside at Calm Cove | Union | 360-710-7452 | hoodcanalevents.com

N • •

•

• •

The Bend on Hood Canal | 253 E Great Bend Drive, Union | 490-5545 | thebend.us

N • •

•

• •

Cameo Boutique Cottage & Suite | 6871 E State Route 106, Union | 490-7006| hoodcanalevents.com

N • • •

•

•

Cedar Hill Cottage | Union | 360-710-7452 | hoodcanalevents.com

N • •

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Harmony Hill Retreat Center | 7362 E State Route 106, Union | 898-2363 | harmonyhill.org

O •

•

•

Michelle Circle Home | 200 E Michelle Drive, Union | explorehoodcanal.com

N • •

Pebble Beach Place | 10230 WA 106, Union | 206-550-5962 | pebblebrachplace.com

N

Robin Hood Village Resort | 6780 E State Route 106, Union | 898-2163 | robinhoodvillageresort.com

•

UNION B S B B

• S

•

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O • • •

S B

•

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St Andrews Lodge | 7550 WA 106, Union | 360-898-2362 | standrewshouse.org

O • • •

S

•

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South Shore Vacation Rental | Union | 360-271-2186

N

B

•

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Union City Beach House | Union | 206-949-9090

N • •

B

•

•

Vermillion Cottage | Union | 360-710-7452 | hoodcanalevents.com

N • •

B

•

• •

Woodside at Calm Cove | Union | 360-710-7452 | hoodcanalevents.com

N • •

B

•

• •

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

•

• •

ALLYN & GRAPEVIEW enjoy gorgeous views of the protected harbor waters of Case Inlet. The area features quaint shops, waterfront lodging, restaurants, and beach parks. Annually, the Grapeview area hosts the Water and Art Festival, a day-long event featuring entertainment and juried artists (canceled in 2020).

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 The area features quaint shops, a variety of FJORD 52 for your kayaks. restaurants, and beach parks.

ALLYN

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. thelercenter.org

SALMON STRONG

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

GET DIRTY

TAHUYA STATE FOREST hosts off road

vehicles, bike, and horseback riding, as well as fishing, hunting; RVs or tent camping. dnr.wa.gov

Situated on the southernmost point of the isthmus connecting the Kitsap and Olympic Peninsulas, Belfair is the perfect place to begin an adventure.

Whether you're headed north to explore Dewatto and Tahuya or plan to follow the Canal through Union, and Hoodsport, the journey begins here.

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

KAMILCHE VISITOR CENTER 31 West State Route 108, Kamilche, WA (360) 432-0921

RIDE FREE IN MASON COUNTY From ferries in Seattle to trailheads in Hood Canal, Mason Transit offers free rides – masontransit.org

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK nps.gov

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SILVER LAKE Craig Romano | FEATURED COLUMNIST:

CRAIG ROMANO is an author of more than 20 hiking guidebooks including the bestselling Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula 2nd Edition (Mountaineers Books), which includes descriptions for 136 hikes throughout the Olympic Peninsula.

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STORY & PHOTOS

The Olympic National Forest’s Buckhorn Wilderness contains more than 44,000 acres of some of the finest backcountry on the Olympic Peninsula. Within this rugged corner of the Olympic Mountains you can hike on miles of trails traversing deep valleys of old-growth forests and along high windswept ridges granting stunning views.

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SILVER LAKES

Distance: 10.8 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: 3275 feet High Point: 5675 feet Difficulty Loop: difficult Snow free: mid-June to early November Trailhead Pass Needed: Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Pass GPS waypoints: Trailhead: N47 51.385, W123 02.153, Silver Lake: N47 50.686 W123 04.247

Hit the Trail Located within the Olympic rain-shadow, the Buckhorn receives ample sunshine and consists of a much drier landscape than points south and west. Lakes are rare in this wilderness. Silver Lake is one of the few gracing the region. It provides an oasis for wildlife and serves as an excellent destination for hikers.

There are two ways to reach Silver Lake.

The shorter route is via Silver Creek. This route was never officially built, involving instead from a well-trodden user built boot path. It’s rugged in spots and to reach it involves a long rough dirt road from the north. The official trail starts high on the southern shoulder of Mount Townsend.

It involves more effort to hike due to its length and elevation gain—but it’s wellbuilt and highly scenic. And the approach to it is by a primarily good paved road.

Nearby Mount Townsend—one of the most popular hiking destinations in the Olympics keeps most hikers away from these trails, leaving Silver Lake a much quieter destination. In early season wildflowers give an added bonus to the official route— but lingering snow can make it tricky.

Start your hike from the upper trailhead for the Mount Townsend Trail. Follow this well-worn & popular path through stately groves of firs and hemlocks adorned with Pacific rhododendrons. In late May and early June, the rhodies add an array of dazzling colors to the surrounding verdant cloak. The trail steadily climbs. Shortly after entering the Buckhorn Wilderness, the forest cover thins and views east emerge.

Cross several cascading creeks and continue working your way upward. The trail switchbacks more than two dozen times.

Here most hikers will continue right to ascend the open summit of Mount Townsend. You want to head left on the trail less traveled. Your climbing isn’t yet over however. Muster up a little more energy and reach a small gap on a high ridge separating Mount Townsend from the Welch Peaks. Take a break and look back east for a great view of Windy and Sink Lakes directly below. Then face west and enjoy a sweeping view of the Silver Creek valley. Silver Lake however is not visible.

It’s hidden behind a small wooded knob to the south.

The way crests a small knoll arriving at Camp Windy, which usually lives up to its name. Look below to tiny Windy Lake, not much more than a buggy pool most of the year. Then continue climbing coming to a junction at 3.0 miles.

"Fall is the perfect time to visit Silver Lake with the added bonus that its resident biting insects have gone the way of the early blossoms."

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"Subalpine lake set in a remote cirque; summer wildflowers; trail offers sweeping views of area peaks & Puget Sound."

Tips for safe and healthy hiking during the Covid-19 Pandemic

Now resume hiking crossing a steep slope that comes alive with blossom in the summer. Via a couple of long switchbacks the way descends more than 600' into the valley. Be sure to save some energy for the return hike, as you’ll need to regain that elevation. At 4.6 miles reach a junction in the forested valley. Here the Silver Lake Way Trail descends northwest following alongside Silver Creek. Continue straight, soon coming to Silver Creek.

Hop across the creek and start climbing again following the creek to its source.

At 5.4 miles reach Silver Lake in a semiopen bowl flanked by craggy peaks and ridges. It’s a tranquil spot where soft breezes often leave rippling signatures on the lake’s surface; and the raucous calls of Clarks nutcrackers (more common east of the Cascade Crest) often break the silence.

Find a shoreline rock and stay for a while.

However, if you have some energy left, a steep half mile path to the south may entice you to follow it. It leads to a gap on a ridge high above the Big Quilcene River where you can stand mouth agape staring out at hulking Mount Constance towering over craggy ridges and deep emerald valleys.

Notes:

We all must do what we can to prohibit the continual spread of this disease. We can do that by adhering to the following while we enjoy our trails: • Avoid crowded hiking destinations. If you arrive and the parking lot is already full, head to another location • Opt for weekdays over weekends to hit the trail • Hit the trail early morning before others arrive • Avoid hiking in large groups outside of family • Practice Social Distancing while on the trail, giving other hikers room to pass and keeping your distance from them at lakes and summits.

• Wear a mask when encountering others on the trail. A buff or bandanna works well.

• Pack hand sanitizer • Pack it in pack it out • Don’t be a surface pooper. Poop properly in the woods by always using privies first if available-or by heading at least 200 feet away from all trails, campsites and water sources and digging a cat hole for your business. Bury waste and TP. • Pack out all pet waste.

NW Forest pass required; Wilderness rules Land Agency Contact: Olympic National Forest, Hood Canal Ranger District, Quilcene, (360) 765-2200; fs.usda.gov/olympic Recommended Map: Green Trails Olympic Mountains East 168S Recommended Guidebooks: Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula 2nd edition (Romano, Mountaineers Books) Trailhead directions: From Quilcene drive US 101 south for 1.5 miles and turn right onto Penny Creek Road. After 1.5 miles bear left onto Big Quilcene River Road (Forest Road 27); which eventually becomes paved. Continue on FR 27 for 13.7 miles and turn left onto FR 27190 reaching the trailhead in 0.7 mile.

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SOUTH PUGET SOUND & HOOD CANAL | OLYMPIC PENINSULA & COASTAL REGION

pacific coast scenic

waterfall trail

SCENIC WATERFALL

guide Let’s go Chasing

WATERFALLS The Olympic Range and proximity to Pacific Coastal marine moisture flow set the perfect scene for spectacular and hidden waterfalls. Here are a few of our favorites for you to explore.

GUIDE TO 25

OLYMPIC PENINSULA

WATERFALLS

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waterfalltrail.org FJORD

25 SCENIC WATERFALLS

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!

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

Olympia & Hood Canal

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..

1. Tumwater Falls Loop (1 MILE – EASY)

Olympia | Exit #103 off of I-5 S to Deschutes Way Tumwater Falls Park, no pass required, kid/dog friendly Iconic landmark, multi-tiered showy falls separated by gorge.

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

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

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

Kamiliche | US 101 N, left at Old Olympic , mile to gate Forestry & WA DNR, no pass required, kid/dog friendly Descend to a grove of big trees — and the falls. Here Kennedy Creek tumbles over basalt flow.

Lake Crescent & Elwha River

3. Vincent Creek Falls (ROAD ACCESS – EASY)

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

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.

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)

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

Lake Cushman / Hoodsport | SR 119 for 9.3 miles to trail head Olympic National Forest, pass required, kid/dog-friendly Loop utilizes old logging roads, new trails and series of bridges constructed by volunteers that continue to improve this loop.

5. Staircase Rapids Loop (2 MILE – EASY) Lake Cushman/Hoodsport | SR 119; FR 24 for 14.7 miles Olympic National Park, pass required, kid-friendly, no pets Follow river to suspension bridge, cross river and complete loop on North Fork Skokomish River back to Ranger Station.

6. Hamma Hamma Falls (ROAD ACCESS – EASY) Lilliwaup | FR 25 for 13.3 miles Olympic National Forest, pass required, kid-friendly Bridge spans two-tiered falls (80’). Overhead view decent year round. On drive back, enjoy views of secondary falls along river.

13. Wolf

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Duckabush River Valley | FR 2510 6.3 miles, FR 2530, 1.3 miles Olympic National Forest, no pass required, kid/dog-friendly Well-built trail to 130’ two-tiered waterfall. Pacific rhododendrons line the trail in May and June.

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.

8. Rocky Brook Falls (QUARTER MILE – EASY)

Brinnon | Milepost 306 on US 101, Dosewallips Road 3 miles Private, no pass, kid/dog-friendly - check for closures Classic horsetail waterfall crashes more than 200’ from hanging FJORD valley. Summer, the cascade pool is a popular swimming hole.

Thank you.

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pacific coast scenic

waterfall trail

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

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.

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.

Pacific Coast & Quinault

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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)

Capitol State Forest, Discover Pass required, kid/dog friendly

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)

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.

21. Merriman Falls (ROADSIDE—MINIMAL WALKING)

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.

22. Enchanted Valley of 10,000 Waterfalls

(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 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.

Full descriptions: waterfalltrail.org

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.

CAPE FLATTERY

LAKE CRESCENT

LAKE OZETTE

17 LA PUSH

16

15

12 14

PORT TOWNSEND

13 QUILCENE

Olympic National Park

18 KALALOCH

PORT ANGELES

11

19

22

QUINAULT

5

21

4

24

20

10

23 25

3

8 9 7 6

BRINNON

SEATTLE

HOODSPORT BELFAIR

SHELTON TACOMA

ABERDEEN

2 1

OLYMPIA

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SOUTH PUGET SOUND & HOOD CANAL | OLYMPIC PENINSULA & COASTAL REGION

Enjoy the adventure of finding the falls as much as the falls themselves!

25 WAYS TO WATERFALLS

1 Tumwater Falls

2 Kennedy Creek Falls Northwest Washington is home to the Olympics and

3. Vincent Creek Falls three of four temperate rainforests on the planet.

4. Big Creek Cascades

5. Staircase Rapids Receiving over 150" of precipitation annually, the Hoh,

6. Hamma Hamma Falls Quinault and Queets are located on the costal foothills 7. Murhut Falls

8. Rocky Brook Falls of the Olympics. Mount Olympus receives over 260” of

9. Dosewallips Falls rain each year. That’s 21 feet of precipitation.

10. Fallsview Falls 11. Striped Peak Falls 12. Madison Creek Falls 13. Wolf Creek Falls 14. Goblins Gate 15. Boulder Creek Falls Hood Canal & South Puget Sound 16. Marymere Falls 150 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport 17. Sol Duc Falls (800) 576-2021 | explorehoodcanal.com 18. Strawberry Bay Falls Olympic National Park Visitor Center 19. Mineral Creek Falls 3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles 20. Cascade Falls (360) 565-3130 | nps.gov 21. Merriman Falls 22. Enchanted Valley Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center 23. Spoon Creek Falls 18113 Upper Hoh Rd, Forks 24. Maidenhair Falls (360) 374-6925 | nps.gov 25. Porter Falls CAPE FLATTERY

N47 00.895 N47 04.663 N47 22.088 N47 30.464 N47 31.173 N47 34.531 N47 40.458 N47 43.241 N47 43.921 N47 47.466 N48 09.757 N48 02.516 N47 58.446 N47 57.414 N47 57.974 N48 02.994 N47 57.085 N47 52.381 N47 52.167 N47 27.774 N47 30.018 N47 40.296 N47 21.197 N47 27.106 N46 58.654

QuestionS?

LAKE CRESCENT LAKE OZETTE

17 LA PUSH

15

12 14

19

22

QUINAULT

10

5

21 20

PORT TOWNSEND

13

Olympic National Park

18 KALALOCH

PORT ANGELES

11 16

W122 54.256 W123 07.619 W123 16.889 W123 13.451 W123 20.086 W123 15.631 W123 03.040 W122 56.500 W123 09.164 W122 55.787 W123 40.921 W123 35.364 W123 35.454 W123 34.510 W123 42.835 W123 47.324 W123 49.178 W124 34.638 W123 53.058 W123 50.483 W123 47.075 W123 23.408 W123 33.900 W123 33.591 W123 16.052

4

24 23 25

3

8 9 7 6

QUILCENE BRINNON

SEATTLE

HOODSPORT BELFAIR

SHELTON

TACOMA

KAMILCHE

2 OCEAN SHORES

1

OLYMPIA

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

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FULL DESCRIPTIONS AT WATERFALLTRAIL.ORG

Go Birdwatching

Five places to spot birds around the fjord With a majestic and varied landscape as a background for your birding endeavors, Hood Canal is a gorgeous place to come search for the over 250 species that call the Olympic Peninsula home.

1. Theler Wetlands belfair

135-acre preserve on Hood Canal, marshes, forested wetlands, river estuary. Fall, listen for Golden-crowned Kinglets; Bewick’s, Marsh, and Winter Wrens. Birds of prey in the air: Bald Eagles, Ospreys, Red-Tailed Hawks, Short-eared Owls. Winter brings Northern Shrikes to meadows.

2. Potlatch State Park Skokomish

57-acre park; Hood Canal saltwater shoreline and mixed forest. Birding: Fall-spring, high tide offers best waterfowl birding.

Common Loons, Surf Scoters, Greater Scaups, Goldeneyes, Buffleheads, Mergansers, and Grebes.

3.Oakland Bay

Shelton

WDFW viewpoint on bay, mudflats, fringe of evergreen trees. Duck viewing: Northern Pintails, Mergansers, American and Eurasian Wigeons, Buffleheads, Goldeneyes, Surf and White-winged Scoters, Gadwalls, Green-winged Teals. See Opreys spring-fall, Dunlins in winter. Common Ravens, and Bald Eagles visit year-round.

4. Twanoh State Park Union

182-acre park, shoreline, conifer forest.

Birding: Loons, Marbled Murrelets, Grebes, Surf and White-winged Scoters, Goldeneyes, Red-breasted Mergansers, Buffleheads, Greater Scaups, Ruddy Ducks.

Jarrell Cove State Park Harstine Island

43-acre forested shoreline, saltwater bay.

On rising tide, see Surf Scoters, Goldeneyes, Red-breasted Mergansers, Common, Pacific, and Red-throated Loons.

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Open for Socially Distanced Tastings Fri - Sun 11am - 5pm (possibly Thursdays as well) Visit our website for the most up to date hours.

Due to Covid we are open based on demand.

Call ahead recommended on Weekends.

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Your help is needed with fjord holiday plans Rachel Hansen | editor It's hard to anticipate Christmas, we haven't even had Halloween – but, better to be prepared then scrambling to navigate celebration in a COVID world.

Besides, what we need most right now is too look forward to positive events. Lately there has been a sense of uncertainty that is weighing heavy on all of our familes. Our kids are struggling with online school routines and missing all their friends.

For the Winter Fjord Issue – send us your memories and traditions, send us your Christmas pictures. Share your favorite recipes.

We want to see it all.

Once again there will be prizes for the best holiday lights and business windows. Depending on how restrictions progress, volunteers are planning craft events that can be hosted in small groups or virtually with take home kits families can complete together. We are also working with businesses to host a countywide gingerbread contest, displaying entries in street windows.

We're reaching out to YOU – residents, businesses, visitors – to help us make this the best Festival on the Fjord ever.

Plans are in the works for Shelton (Christmastown, USA) to decorate their main street so they are dripping with good cheer. The Christmas trees at the Courthouse and Post Office will be shining brightly and we are working with local farms to create corner tree displays festooned with beach-polished oyster shells and white LED lights. The Beauchamp Santa will be reinstalled at Outlook Park in November.

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Let the Fjord know all the things your communities are doing to celebrate – virtually or traditionally.

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And share your ideas! Let's work together to brainstorm giving trees, toys, and meals so that everyone's Christmas is the best it can be.

Please email your ideas, stories, photos, recipes, craft ideas, and events to rachel@nwevent.org

by November 1st for inclusion in the holiday edition of the Festival of the Fjord.

Thank you so much for your support of this project. The winter issue will mark the 5th year of this publication. I am honored to be able to share your fjord's stories. Thank you.

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GEORGE STENBERG PHOTO

Follow the fjord and immerse in pristine wilderness with room to discover adventures.

Download the waterfall map & wild shellfish harvesting guide to start planning now.

Welcome to the #wildsideWA.

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