Spring Fjord 2024

Following the tides.

Rachel Hansen | editor

Mountains, water and countless acres of remote wilderness. This seemingly sleepy pocket of nature draws us in. But don't be fooled by the quiet. Fueled by the briny air and the energy of Olympic waterfalls, there's great depth in the waters of the fjord.

When the tide goes out the entire shoreline changes. Acreage increases with a myriad of colors and creatures that were hidden beneath twelve feet of water hours before.

If you happen to work the tides there is a constant checking of charts with each waterway having its own timing. Winter low tides are in the dead of night, make beach harvest in January bone chillingly cold. Finger tips go a strange purply red color and become so numb the switch on your headlamp defeats you. It's all you can do to swing one more bag, tie one more zip tie until you are able to dive, with great relief, back in the warm folds of your blankets.

Having been raised on BC's outer coast, night tides and wet rain gear are part of my DNA, and as I grow older and follow the trail of memories these experiences leave behind, I realize how lucky I have been.

Although inconvenient at the time, these memories have left an invisible imprint on my character, and as I appreciate the tides more, I am so gratified to have those flashes of light on the dark winter nights.

The warmth of a beach fire after intense cold. The muscle burn after a breathtaking hike. Wet jeans sticking to your legs after a swim rescue of a kayak paddle following a miscalculated tide. The plaintive mewl of hungry newborn seal pup separated from its mother. The tapestry weaves sadness and discomfort aside the joy.

The tapestry of tides creates memories in a place where the waters run deep. Hood Canal's glacial fjord forms unique subtidal biomes that appear no where else in the world.

Heralded for its rich timber history and aquaculture resources, it is the place where many of us choose to raise our kids and build our livelihoods – even if it does mean working night tides. And like a place that is like no other place, this tapestry deserves careful stewardship and respect.

As we trace the fjord – and our tides – it is an honor to celebrate the diversity and resources of our local area. We proudly support the natural and human legacies and invite you to join us on this journey sharing stories and experiences. On page 59 we chronicle the life of Mason County chef Xinh Dwelley. Although we shed tears for her loss, we celebrate the legacy she leaves –no one understood the tides better than Xinh!

Thanks to all the folks who contribute to the Fjord. Craig Romano, a respected voice on all things trails –thank you for your support of the publication with a unique local destination each issue. This time Craig takes us below the snow line to explore the verdant forest trails of Lower Big Quilcene River on page 28.

We salute the volunteers tirelessly creating unique events, the farmers, the dreamers, the hosts and the adventurers – there is no end to the great energy and ideas the shore of Hood Canal and South Puget Sound uncover with each tide.

Spring on the fjord! WHAT'S HAPPENING?

REOCCURRING

Shelton Parks & Rec Pickleball

Mondays - Fridays , 9 - 11 AM, Tuesday

Community Transit Center (MTA)

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

Monday, competitive play, level 3.5 +

Tuesday - Friday, general drop-in play

Shelton School District Board Meeting

2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 6 PM

Mt. View Elementary School

Hood Canal Kiwanis Community

Sewing Club | Tuesdays, 2 - 4 PM

St Germains, 600 Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport

Builder Tuesdays

Tuesdays, 10 AM - 2 PM

Shelton Timberland Library

Bookmobile in Brinnon & Quilcene

Tuesdays, 10–12 PM Brinnon Community Center

Tuesdays,1:30 – 4 PM Quilcene Comm. Center

Port of Shelton Commission

1st and 3rd Tuesday, 2 PM

21 W Sanderson Way, Shelton

Port of Hoodsport Commission Meeting

2nd Wednesday monthly at 9 AM 24113 Hwy 101 N, Ste A, Hoodsport

Trivia Night at Alderbrook Resort & Spa

Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8 PM, Union

Live Music at Hood Canalé

Thursdays, Open Mic, 6-9 PM, Union

Shelton Family YMCA FREE Teen Night

Fridays, 5 PM - 8 PM

3101 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton YMCA open for teens (7–12 grade).

North Mason Eagles Karaoke

Fridays, 7 PM

80 NE Alder Creek Lane, Belfair

Live Entertainment at The Drift

Fridays, 9 PM, 19330 US Hwy 101, Skokomish

Bookmobile in Brinnon & Quilcene

Saturdays, 10 –12 PM Brinnon Community Center

Saturdays, 1:30 – 4 PM Quilcene Comm. Center

Live Music at Hood Canalé

Saturdays, 6-9 PM, Union

FOUND ITEMS

Oyster Shell crafts at Hama Hama's holiday events. Crafting sponsored by Explore Hood Canal.

The Photography of Dennis Meurer: Shelton, 1968-1974"

Mason County Historical Museum

427 West Railroad Ave, Shelton

Free photo exhibit available through April. The museum is open from 10 AM to 4 PM Tuesdays through Fridays, and 11 AM to 4 PM Saturdays.

FEBRUARY

Heartland Dance

Thursday, February 8, 5:30 PM

Mountain View Elementary, 534 E K St, Shelton Free family night! Students must be accompanied by an adult. Concessions cash only.

Olympic Peninsula Waterfall Tour

Friday, February 10

5306146 Hwy 101 N, Brinnon

Hood Canal Adventures presents a half day guided hiking tour to three local waterfalls followed by lunch. Tours only in the winter and spring when the waterfalls are most impressive. The first two waterfalls are only a short walk into the forest. The third waterfall is a 1 mile (2 miles round trip) hike into the Olympic National Forest gaining 250 feet of elevation. hoodcanaladventures.com

Valentine’s Burlesque at Old Alcohol Plant

Saturday, February 10, 6 – 9 PM

310 Hadlock Bay Rd, Port Hadlock

This unique performance blends elements of burlesque, which is characterized by theatrical and often comedic striptease, with a romantic ambiance. Audience participation is encouraged, adding an interactive element to the show. oldalcoholplant.com

2nd Annual Valentine Trunk Show at Mottet

February 12 – 14, 10 AM – 5:30 PM

116 W Railroad Ave, Shelton

Partners in Climb: Indoor Rock Climbing

Tuesday, February 14, 1 – 6 PM

Summit Pacific Wellness Center Physical Therapy Gym

610 E Main Street , Elma

Have fun with your significant other with a challenging indoor rock wall climb! $10/climber, 30 minute session. To schedule – bit.ly/3Yc7se3

Valentine's Murder Mystery Dinner Theater

Wednesday, February 15, 6 PM

1212 Connection Street , Shelton

Dinner includes boneless pork ribs with shrimp skewers, Caesar salad, rice pilaf, broccoli, bread and dessert. Tickets $35, keystonecenterartsandsci.com

Valentine’s Jazz Cabaret at Quilcene School District

Wednesday, February 15 6 – 8 PM

294715 US Highway 101, Quilcene

All ages fundraiser for performing arts program. Dessert, dancing, entertainment and ceramics. $10

Kitty Mae at Lucky Dog Casino

Friday, February 16, 8 – 10 PM

19330 US-101, Skokomish

Winner of the NW CMA Award for Newcomer of 2023, she brings her country voice to the Hood.

Murder Mystery Spaghetti Dinner Theater

Friday, February 16, 6PM

1212 Connection St, Shelton

Spaghetti, salad, rolls and dessert. $25, keystonecenterartsandsci.com

14th Annual Oly Old Time Music Festival

February 16-18, 12 PM

3918 Sleater Kinney Rd, Olympia

Celebrating traditional music and dance. A fun, annual, all-ages event. olyoldtime.weebly.com

“Let Us Be Your Guides”

The Munn Bro's specialize in waterfront homes and acreage in the N.W. Hood Canal which includes Lake Leland, Dabob Bay, Quilcene and Brinnon areas. Enjoy the extended spring and autumn seasons of the Hood Canal. Munn Bro’s agents are thankful for the wonderful people in this pristine area that make it a unique place to live. Experience outdoor activities, wild crafting mushrooms, wildlife, locally grown food, and an abundance of fresh seafood.

Select the most knowledgeable and experienced agents to guide you in the purchase or sale of your property. The Munn Bro’s team truly know the Homes and Land of West Hood Canal. Stop by our new office at 294772 Hwy.101 in Quilcene for maps, tide books and local insight of this beautiful area.

Dystopia Rising PNW

February 16 – 18, 4 PM – 12 PM

370 W Panhandle Lake Rd, Shelton Immersive post Apocalypse role playing at Panhandle Camp. dystopiarisingoregon.com

Dakota Poorman at La Cantina

Friday, February 16, 6 – 9 PM 318 W Railroad Ave, Shelton

It is Never Too Late for Love

Saturday, February 17, 2:30 PM

111 NE Old Belfair Hwy, Belfair Age 50 and older, $10. hubhappenings.org

Bilingual Storytime at Library

Saturday, February 17 10:30 AM

710 W Alder St, Shelton

Stories, rhymes, and songs in both Spanish and English, best for children 3-6 years old. FREE

RUN FOREST RUN

Saturday, February 17, 8 AM

1812 Lake Sylvia Rd N, Montesano Choice between the 25K and 50K distances. ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=108901

Navy Band NW Brass Concert

Sunday, February 18, 2 PM

Naval Undersea Museum, 1 Garnett Wy, Keyport

The brass band’s versatility shines with a diverse repertoire of high energy music.

Canine Reading Buddies at Elma Library

Tuesday, February 20, 2-3 PM

118 N 1st St, Elma

Come to the library and read to a dog! Trained dogs and their handlers will be waiting to listen to young readers.

Ending the Silence Workshop

Thursday, February 22, 5:00 – 6:45 PM

OMS, 800 E K St, Shelton

A 90-minute interactive presentation includes mental health warning signs, tips for talking to young people about mental health and how to work with your student's school. Free childcare will be available during the workshop.

Five Guys, 1 Flute at Canalé

Saturday, February 24, 6-8 PM

6871 WA-106 Suite B, Union Benefit concert for Harmony Hill

Jenner Fox & Jeremy Elliott

Saturday, February 24, 3 PM

923 Hazel Point Rd, Coyle

Duo brings a earthy tone with blues, rock, bluegrass, country, and West African elements coyleconcert.com

Vox Futura

Saturday, February 24, 7 – 9 PM

3737 Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton

Vox Fortura is the newest Classical Crossover group from the United Kingdom and a recent Semi-Finalists of Britain's Got Talent. masoncountyconcerts.org

Karaoke with Shara

Saturday, February 24, 8 PM

318 W Railroad Ave, Shelton

Foggy Trees Paint Class at Painted Heart

Sunday, February 25, 11 AM

DOGGER LIVE

Saturday, February 17, 8-11 PM

1749 Olympic Hwy S, Shelton Country, classic rock, 90s covers and originals solo acoustic.

Partner Yoga Asana & Thai Yoga Massage

Saturday, February 17, 2-5 PM

Civic Center 525 Cota St, Shelton Bring your partner (friend, romantic, relative, co-worker) to have fun connecting with breath, asana (postures), stretching, and learning some Thai moves to fully release muscular tension. $30/person; email jesspearlyoga@gmail.com.

Washington State Toy Show

Saturday, February 17

Kitsap County Fairgrounds 1200 Fairgrounds Rd, Bremerton

Vintage and modern toys, comics, collectibles, and so much more will be available. $5, under 10 free, early bird admission (9AM) $10.

Lower Big Quilcene River Hike

Friday, February 23, 7 AM - 5 PM

This trail is a great choice during the fall and winter months because the trees provide shelter from precipitation. Elevation gain 1890 ft. stevoandlisa@gmail.com pwckitsap.org

Romantic Sunset Cruise

Friday, February 23, 4 PM

303075 US-101, Brinnon Contact (360) 300-7810 details olympicoasisdive.com

Kage Dallas at La Cantina

Friday, February 23, 6 – 9 PM

318 W Railroad Ave, Shelton

Poulsbo Blues & Jazz Festival

February 23 – 24

18881 Front St NE, Poulsbo

Join us at the Poulsbo Blues and Jazz Festival as little Norway becomes Little New Orleans. Thirteen bands over the course of seven hours in select venues. Tickets are limited, poulsborotary.org

221 W Railroad Ave, Shelton $40 per person, price includes all supplies and instruction as well as soft drinks and snacks.

thepaintedheartshelton.com

Amy Grant in Olympia

Sunday, February 25, 3 PM

512 Washington St SE, Olympia

First Contemporary Christian Music artist to have a platinum record, the first to hit No. 1 on the Pop charts. washingtoncenter.org

Trivia Night at High Steel Beer

Thursday, February 29, 6-8 PM

233 S 1st St, Shelton

Shelton Timberland Library hosts trivia each month in this family friendly event at the brewery. FREE

MARCH

Annual Native Plant Festival & Sale

Saturday, March 2, 10 AM - 3 PM

3054 Carpenter Rd SE, Lacey

Shop for affordable native plants and learn how to create backyard habitats.Local vendors, community booths, live music, and food trucks! Info: ksinner@thurstoncd.com or 360-972-0407

Washington Cinderella Workshop

Saturday, March 2, 8 AM – 12 PM

PUD 3, 2621 E Johns Prairie Rd, Shelton

Cinderella's youth development program is entering its 47th year, youth experience the best in natural pageantry. wacinderella.com

Sund Rock at Night

Saturday, March 2 12:00 – 2:30 AM

26476 US-101, Hoodsport

YSS Dive and the Sund family together, will be offering exclusive night dives. yssdive.com

2024 Olympia Symphony Young Artists Competition

Saturday, March 2, 11 AM – 6 PM

Westminster Presbyterian Church 1925 Boulevard Rd SE, Olympia, WA

Tall Timbers: Wes Wedell & Alicia Healey

Saturday, March 2, 3 PM

600 Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport Details visit FB "Tall Timbers Concerts."

Saltwater Sky at La Cantina

Friday, March 8, 6 – 9 PM

El Sarape, 318 W Railroad Ave, Shelton

2024 Forest Festival Coronation — Mason County Forest Festival

Saturday, March 9, 6 – 8 PM

Shelton Performing Arts Center

3737 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton Support local youth as they take part in the Forest Festival Coronation.

The Queen of the Forest will be crowned along with the Princess of Hemlock, Princess of Douglas Fir, and of course, Paul Bunyan and Timber the Axe Man. Forest Festival will also announce button design winner and Parade Grand Marshal. FREE

Casino Royale Gala Fundraising Event

Saturday, March 9, 7 – 10 PM

The HUB, 111 NE Old Belfair Hwy, Belfair hubhappenings.org

The Greatest Piano Men

Saturday, March 9, 8 PM

512 Washington St SE, Olympia

See a live rock & roll celebration of the greatest piano icons including Billy, Elton, Stevie, Ray & more, washingtoncenter.org, Tickets $39-69.

2024 Conference for Shellfish Growers at Alderbrook Resort

March 11 - 12

Walk-ins will not be accepted. First convened by WSG in 1991, the Conference for Shellfish Growers brings together shellfish producers, researchers, students and managers from the Pacific Northwest to discuss pressing issues and relevant research on aquaculture. We look forward to another engaging and insightful conference this year. Conference Registration $200, Information, Ashleigh Epps, Aquaculture Specialist, aepps6@uw.edu or (206) 543-3674.

Olympic Peninsula Waterfall Tour

Monday, March 11

5306146 Hwy 101 N, Brinnon

Half day guided hiking tour to three local waterfalls followed by lunch. Tours only in the winter and spring when the waterfalls are most impressive. The first two waterfalls are only a short walk into the forest. hoodcanaladventures.com

LOL Comedy Gabriel Rutledge

Friday, March 15, 8 – 10 PM

Washington Center for the Performing Arts

512 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA Olympia native returns to Olympia after a year of touring nationally. washingtoncenter.org

PR/AED First-Aid Class

Saturday, March 16, 10 AM - 12:30 PM

2501 NE Dewatto Holly Rd, Tahuya

This class is offered Free for the “Knowledge Transfer” non-certificate.American Heart Association certificate, $50.00. Minimum of four students to hold class,pre-register frontlinepreparedness.wa@gmail.com.

St. Paddles Day at Alderbrook

Saturday, March 16, 9 AM - 3 PM

10 E Alderbrook Drive, Union Paddling event & race. Tickets available at alderbookresort.com.

Intro to Basic Radio Etiquette/Protocol

Saturday, March 16, 8:00 – 10:30 PM

2631 NE Dewatto Holly Rd, Tahuya

Looking to use a handheld radio, this FREE short course will teach radio etiquette and protocol. Info: frontlinepreparedness.wa@gmail.com

Donut Dash - Club Oly Road Runners

Sunday, March 17, 9 AM – 5 PM

Heritage Park Olympia

Free kids race starts at 8:45 AM, 5K at 9 AM, both races start and finish at the Heritage Park.. Sponsored by KMAS Radio, Jeff Slakey with music and announcements. clubolyrunning.com

Bird Walk at the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Wednesday, March 20, 8 AM – 12 PM

100 Brown Farm Rd NE, Olympia Refuge walks attract a diverse group with expertise at all levels. You may stay with the group as long or as short a time as you please.

Ethan Tucker at La Cantina

Friday, March 22, 7 – 10 PM

El Sarape, 318 W Railroad Ave, Shelton Get ready to be blown away by his soulful voice and captivating stage presence.

Neko Case + Imaad Wasif

Saturday, March 23, 8 PM

Capitol Theater, 206 5th Ave SE, Olympia Vocal musician, tickets olympiafilmsociety.org

Hoodsport Library Book Sale

Saturday, March 23, 10:00 – 4:30 PM

40 North Schoolhouse Hill Road, Hoodsport Books in "like new" condition; $2 hard, $1 soft.

Tall Timbers Presents: Larry Murante

Saturday, March 23, 3 PM

St Germain Church

600 Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport

Seattle- based contemporary fok singer and songwriter. Details (360) 877-5862

Easter Bunny Special on Simpson Railroad

March 24 – 25, 10 AM – 4 PM

10138 W Shelton Matlock Rd, Shelton Ride the rails, meet the Easter Bunny, hunt for eggs. $15, reservations at simpsonrailroad.org

Sounds of Silence Tribute

Sunday, March 24, 7 – 9 PM

3737 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton

Performed by Steven Delopoulos and Johnny Phillips of the award-winning band Burlap to Cashmere, this is a throwback to the early 70’s Greenwich Village folk scene.

The Commodores with The Spinners

Saturday, March 30, 8 PM

Little Creek Casino Resort, 91 WA-108, Shelton

The Commodores and The Spinners are two of the most iconic funk and soul, R&B bands to ever bust a groove and remaining musical innovators to this day. littlecreekcasino.com

APRIL

Gone with the Wind 85th Anniversary

Sunday, April 7, 1 PM

1520 NE Riddell Rd, Bremerton

Epic Civil War drama focuses on the life of petulant Southern belle Scarlett O'Hara. Starting with her idyllic life on a sprawling plantation, the film traces her survival through the tragic history of the South during the Civil War.

Night Dive at Sund Rock

April 5 – 6

26476 US-101, Hoodsport

YSS Dive and the Sund family together, will be offering exclusive night dive opportunities at Sund Rock Marine Preserve. yssdive.com

Hood Canal Dive Meet UpSund Rock & Other Shore Dives

April 5 – 7

24520 US-101, Hoodsport

Rooms have already been booked with Sunrise Resort. Includes air fills, dives and potluck. Dive package fees $99/person, resort fees additional, reserve at evergreendive.com, (425) 512-8811.

Theler Wetlands Bird Walk

Thursday, April 11, 8 – 11 AM

22641 WA-3, Belfair

Theler Wetlands Walk Join us for a Theler Wetlands Bird Walk, co-led by John Riegsecker and Faye Hands. This walk is on level, well-maintained trails. FREE

Music on the Hill - Tall Timbers

Presents Curtis & Loretta

Saturday, April 13, 3 PM

St Germains Church

600 N Lk Cushman Rd, Hoodsport

The husband and wife duo’s har-

Five For Fighting with String Quartet

Wednesday, April 17, 7:30 PM

512 Washington St SE, Olympia

Tickets $72 – $35 washingtoncenter.org

Tools for Running an Effective Nonprofit

Friday April 19, 9 AM – 3 PM

190 W Sentry Dr, Shelton

A day long workshop for leaders of small, all or mostly volunteer organizations wanting to learn the basics. nonprofitwa.org

The Red Hot Chilli Pipers

Friday April 19, 8 AM – 5 PM

An Evening with Jinjoo Cho

Saturday, April 20, 7:30 PM

2011 Mottman Rd SW, Olympia, Emerald City Music presents award-winning South Korean violinist Jinjoo Cho in a full-length multimedia concert for solo violin alone. washingtoncenter.org

Candyland Youth Festival

Saturday, April 20, 12:30 PM

2102 E Johns Prairie Rd, Shelton Youth talent show, auction, and Candy Dash for all ages. Games for kids, lots of prizes in candy dash.

Run Like A Fool - Club Oly Road Runners

Sunday, April 21, 9 AM – 5 PM

monies and proficiency on stringed instruments create an alluring frame for their poignant original songs, and traditional pieces from America and the British Isles. $15 suggested donation.

Mel Dalton at Tuggs & Chuggs

Saturday, April 13, 7 PM

13443 W Cloquallum Rd, Elma Dalton is a country/Americana musician playing in the Inland Northwest.

Denim & Diamonds Dinner Auction

Sunday, April 14, 4 - 7:30 PM

Alderbrook Resort & Spa

10 E Alderbrook Dr, Union

Live, silent and dessert auction, dinner, wine and beer and lots of fun! Established in 2004, the mission of the Karen Hilburn Cancer Fund (KHCF) is to help Mason County residents. Tickets: karenhilburncancerfund.org

512 Washington St SE, Olympia It’s Bagpipes. It’s Rock. It’s Bagrock. AC/DC meets the poet Robert Burns. Where rock anthems sit comfortably alongside the great tunes from the glens and the mountains of Scotland. rhcp.scot

Where the Rope Ends

Saturday, April 20, 6 – 9 PM

3737 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton Kick off National Volunteer Week an event-filled evening to bring awareness and support to our community. Among other things will be a screening of the locally produced documentary film Where the Rope Ends. Experience the power of film as we showcase the gripping story of a real-life search and rescue mission from right here in Western Washington. Get a behind-thescenes look at the heroic efforts of a local Search and Rescue team as they navigate treacherous terrains and save lives assisting in one woman’s life changing experience. Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by our local volunteers. Admission is free. Donations accepted.

5K race that takes place around April Fools every year in Olympia. Fast and flat course on pavement and gravel. What costume will you be wearing? KMAS is a sponsor and Jeff Slakey will be on hand for music and announcements

Olympus Rally

Saturday April 20- 21, Shelton A Pacific Northwest tradition returns in 2023 as part of the American Rally Assoc. National Championship. olympusrally.com

David Shannon:

Ireland’s Greatest Showman

Thursday, April 25, 7 – 9 PM

3737 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton Often referred to as Ireland's Greatest Showman, David Shannon has been singing professionally for more than 25 years and is renowned for his engaging performance and charming personality. masoncountyconcerts.org

Ridge Motorsports Park Pacific Northwest GP 2024

Friday, April 26 – 28

1060 W Eells Hill Rd, Shelton 24 Hours Of Lemons at Ridge Motorsport Park in Shelton WA. Kids under 16 free. 24hoursoflemons.com

Tall Timbers Concert Series:Deb Seymour

Saturday, April 27, 3 PM

St Germains Church

600 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport

Spring Arts Walk

Saturday, April 27, 2 – 4 PM

Downtown Olympia

Opening Day at Vance Creek Railriders

Saturday, May 18

421 W Hanks Lake Rd, Shelton

Enjoy the unique experience of pedaling the historic Simpson Timber Railway vcrailriders.com

Home & Garden Show

May 18 – 19

Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds

32 Elma McCleary Rd, Elma

The WSU Master Gardeners of Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties are once again filling the Pavilions with vendor exhibits.

SAVE THE DATE

Fjord Fest

May 25 - 26, 10 AM – 6 PM

251 Hjelvicks Rd, Brinnon

Fjord Fest (formerly Brinnon ShrimpFest) celebrates over 30 years. Admission $10;Kids under 12 FREE Military free (with ID). fjordfest.com

Mason County Forest Festival

May 30-June 2, Shelton

Carnival open Thursday, Saturday Grand Parade at 10:30 AM, and at 10 PM enjoy the fireworks. masoncountyforestfestival.com

Fjordin Crossin & Paddle the Canal

Saturday, June 22

24210 US-101, Hoodsport

Scandinavian inspired event features a kayak race across the fjord, great food and vendors and of course the crossing of Hardware Distillery's Aquavit barrel, fjordincrossin.com.

Bluegrass from the Forest

Bluegrass from the Forest welcomes back the popular Crying Uncle Band to their main stage line up in 2024.

Beast of Big Creek Trail Race

Mon, Aug 5, 12 PM

Hoodsport

Run the Beast of Big Creek Trail Race race in Hoodsport this August. This race, running up, and down Mt. Ellinor will celebrate it's 15th! Anniversary on Aug 3rd. We're stoked to bring the only certified skyrace course in the United States to Hoodsport, WA. For info on the event: rockcandyrunning.com/beast.

Hoodstock

August 16-18

Union

Reserve lodging now for this immersive three day music floating and land based music festival featuring a fantastic line up of bands and solo singers a well as artists, vendors and hands-on opportunities. Visit hoodstock.org for details and schedule.

Roadtrip NIRVANA

Rachel Hansen FJORD EDITOR

No, I'm not talking the 1990's rock band formed in Aberdeen by Kurt Cobain. Although, now that we mention it, that would be a pretty awesome local road trip and Nirvana's definitely have to be on the playlist.

No, what this article's cutesy play on words (check out the artfully placed van on the facing page) is loosely referring to a concept in Indian religious traditions.

In ancient Sanskrit, the three syllables actually had many meanings but I really like "to be free from entangled roots." Ultimately, nirvana is not a place but a state of consciousness. One tradition states that the limits of language and human understanding "prevented a clear definition of the concept," further adding that "nirvana" can best be described by what it isn't."

Come As You Are.

Sometimes you just need to take time to take time. Sound crazy? Look back on some of your most pivotal travel moments. You may be surprised. Our family travels a lot. Helps to have a guy in the airline industry. What is always surprising for me is that those big moments that you think you are

going to remember for ever are often overshadowed by the little memories you overlooked at the time. Mona Lisa? Cool, but encased in tourists and glass. And tiny – did you imagine she was less than 2' wide. Turns out our moment that day was in a playground behind Notre Dame peeling apart fresh croissants and imagining stories about the stone gargoyles.

It's what isn't there that's important.

Take your Time, hurry up.

Go ahead, define the perfect road trip. Your's is different than mine. And, hey, that's OK. In fact that's perfect. Some like an organized, know every moment kind of day. Others prefer surprises. My favorite road trip has no destination, empty pages waiting for our story.

Choice is Yours.

This is your adventure. You be you. And that, in a confusing nutshell, is the premise of the following pages of the Fjord and the current Mason County Tourism campaign theme. Over the next few months we will be highlighting curated adventures that are available no other place and designed specifically for you.

Romantics, adventurers, budget conscious, family travelers, foodies, history buffs, learners, teachers, dog parents – yep, instead of clinging to the activities – kayaking, hiking, scuba diving, golfing – our goal is to anticipate itineraries in which every type of traveler can find their nirvana.

Watch explorehoodcanal.com in the coming months for the unveiling of this new approach to sustainable tourism in Mason County. We're sure you are going to be inspired!

PHOTO: GEORGE STENBERG

What's your VIBE?

Shelton Itinerary THE THRILL SEEKER

PROFILE: Aren't motivated by danger. Driven to conquer new challenges & soak up every experience life has to offer—thrill seekers simply don't let danger dissuade them.

Check-in at waterfront vacation rental; dinner at Wilde Irish Pub (Railroad Ave); beers at High Steel Beer (Grove/1st).

DAY 1: Breakfast at Blondie's (Railroad Ave); Skydive Kapowsin ( Shelton Airport); 40 minute drive to High Steel Bridge (NF-2340); Pizza at Railroad Tap Station (Railroad Ave)

DAY 2: T's Cafe (3rd St) followed by day at track, Ridge Motorsports Park (Eells Hill Rd); sushi at Zen (Alder St

Liliwaup Itinerary THE ROMANTIC

PROFILE: Strive to make people around feel better, even if it's not practical, but more whimsical and artistic.

Check-in at waterfront cabin at Mike's Beach Resort (Hwy 101); dinner & live music on site (summer weekends).

DAY 1: Breakfast at Tides Restaurant (Hwy 101); dungeness crab kayaking tour with Hood Canal Adventures (Brinnon); Rocky Brook waterfall (Brinnon), dinner at Halfway House (Brinnon); oysters & champagne in cabin (arrange with Mikes's).

DAY 2: Breakfast in room; hike to Murhut Falls (flat open trail); lunch at Hama Hama Oyster; drive to Hamma Hamma Falls; beach visit for oyster shells, Eagle Creek; Olympic Mountain Ice Cream at Lilliwaup General Store; change at cabin; gift shopping at Canalside (Hoodsport), wine at Stottle Winery, tasting at Hardware Distillery (Hoodsport); dinner at Fjord Oyster Bank (Hoodsport).

Union Itinerary: THE ARTIST

PROFILE: Creative, independent, expressive, imaginative, original, and intuitive. Compose, write, appreciate the arts, create, imagine, and generate new ideas.

Check in at Walls of Glass in Union (hoodcanalresort.com); dinner and live music at Hood Canalé (WA-106); don't miss an evening sunset soak.

DAY 1: Breakfast at Hook & Fork; shopping at galleries; to lodging for paddle with included kayaks; lunch at Alderbrook Golf Course restaurant (check out the bird's eye view of Hood Canal; Paint and Sip with BriAnne (pnwbybrianne.com); dress for sunset dinner and live music at Alderbrook Resort & Spa; walk on dock.

DAY 2: Coffees at Union Square Deli (Dalby Rd) order picnic lunch to go; head to Twanoh State Park (WA-106); hike trails (2.5 miles); walk beaches and picnic; dinner at Two Margaritas; evening sunset paddle and hot tub soak at Wall of Glass; live music at Hood Canalé or Robinhood (summer).

Hood Canal's Loop THE TASTER

PROFILE: A desire to savor each morsel and dive deep into the experience and learn more about the process. Food & beverage is not sustenance – it's a life.

Check-in at Alderbrook Resort & Spa (Union); dinner & live music on site.

DAY 1: morning foraging tour with Hood Canal Adventures (Brinnon); Oyster Class at Hama Hama Oyster (Liliwaup); beach walk; Head to Hoodsport – beer at Potlatch Brewery; wine at Stottle; spirits at Hardware Distillery; fresh seafood dinner at Fjord Oyster Bank; return for sunset views from Alderbrook dock.

DAY 2: Breakfast at Resort; walk Theler Wetlands, (Belfair); lunch and tastings at Mosquito Fleet Winery (Belfair); return to resort, sunset dinner at Hook and Fork (Union) live music and wine tasting at Hood Canalé (Union).

Rental properties at hoodcanalresort.com feature spectacular amenities, inspiring views (imagine the artistic vibes that will humming waking up to that view) and photography by Tove Koch. Hood Canal Resort photos

Dinner and live music at Hood Canalé in Union

Hoodsport Itinerary THE DOG PARENT

PROFILE: Loyal & dependable, open and accepting of people who are different and abhor traveling without the four-legged family members.

Check in at Sunrise Resort (pets welcome for a nightly $20); Glen Ayr Resort (Dog bed, sheets, bowls, and towels to dry paws); Mikes Beach Resort (dog welcome basket); dinner at El Puerto De Angeles (view seating); evening walk, Hoodsport Trail (easy trail between Hoodsport and Lake Cushman).

DAY 1: Breakfast at Tides Restaurant (outdoor summer seating); Dosewallips State Park, Steam Donkey Trail, 3.5 miles, elevation gain of 400', bridge crossings, ferns and river views; Hoodsport for dinner at Fjord Oyster Bank (outdoor pet-friendly, water dishes).

DAY 2: Coffee at Kokanee Coffee; hike to Lena Lake, 7miles round trip, 1,300 ft in elevation, bring water and treats for all. Mossy forest, bridges, creeks and stunning lake; stop at Kokanee Lake for post-hike swim; dinner at Model T Pub & Eatery (Hoodsport).

Music Event

THE GROUPIE

PROFILE: a fan who follows a band around and attends as many of their public appearances as possible.

Well. maybe that's not quite the definition we were going for here, but we have some amazing events that deserve an itinerary –like Union's Hoodstock (AUG 16-18).

Check into the Vermilion Cove Union waterfront (hoodcanalevents.com); dinner, live music and drinks at Hood Canalé.

DAILY: Breakfast beach house; kayak rental at Hood Canal Adventures (delivered to rental); float the Hoodsport Music Festival (Union); enjoy vendors, live music and lunch at Union City Market; evening live music and food at Robinhood and various locations. Check out schedule online hoodstock.org but be sure to make your accommodations reservations well in advance.

Canal Itinerary THE FAMILY TRAVELER

PROFILE: Budget conscience activities with appeal to a variety of ages. families require home base with space and on site activities –extra points for swim beaches, activity rooms, kayaks, and games.

Check in at Oyster Bay Beach House (Hoodsport, house includes high-chair, crib, and pack-n-play); dinner at El Puerto De Angeles (walking); beach.

DAY 1: Breakfast at Blondie's Restaurant (Shelton); go karts at Ridge Motorsports (Shelton); games and food at High Steel Beer (Shelton); swimming at Potlatch State Park (Potlatch).

DAY 2: Breakfast at Beach House; pack a hearty picnic lunch; head up SR 119 to hike at Big Creek Cascades trail, 4.2 mile loop (waterfalltrail.org - easy, dog friendly); grab take out Chicken and Jo's dinner at Model T Pub & Eatery (Hoodsport). Evening swim or paddle at Beach House.

BIG CREEK CASCADES

Lake Cushman, WA

Amble along this circuitous route in the shadow of Mount Ellinor and see the forces of water all around you and be continuously captivated by cascading creeks. WATERFALLTRAIL.ORG

Oyster Bay Beach House, guests have access to whole house, firepit and the beach right in front of the house. Photo: airbnb.com/45423249

Canal Itinerary THE BIRD WATCHER

The Eagle has landed.

Story Stella Wenstob

Eagles have inspired humans throughout history – and the world. The Ancient Romans used them as a symbol of Empire. Here in the United States, the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is our national bird.

Native American tribes, including Hood Canal’s Skokomish, venerate the Bald Eagle. Many tribes associate the eagle with the creator. Since this bird is the strongest flyer, it is believed to carry prayers to the heavens. Feathers and other parts of the bird (such as the talons) are important to many Native American ceremonies, such as smudging, powwows, and talking circles.

At the turn of the 18th century, the Bald Eagle population was estimated to be between 300,000–500,000. In the early 20th century however, the eagle was targeted for sport and because of their perceived predation upon livestock. Between 1918 and 1930 one ornithologist estimated that

approximately 70,000 bald eagles had been shot in the state of Alaska. Additionally, nesting sites were disturbed by logging and other forms of development.

The Bald Eagle Protection Act was introduced in 1940 to protect nests, eggs, feathers, and to stop the slaughter of Bald Eagles. By the 1950s, however, there were reported to be only 412 nesting pairs left in the 48 conterminous United States.

Pushed to near extinction

Further, pressure was placed upon Bald Eagles populations (and many birds of prey species) by the pesticide Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT). Since Bald Eagles are predators at the top of the food-chain, this chemical was concentrated in their prey and even the prey of their prey. This bioaccumulation disrupted the Bald Eagle’s metabolism of calcium, severely effecting fertility rates and inhibiting healthy egg production.

Bald Eagles were declared endangered in 1962.

Revival of a species

However, this is actually a happy story. In 2007, the Bald Eagle was federally delisted from the endangered species list. With the banning of DDT in the United States in 1972 (1989 in Canada), extensive

breeding programs, and the enforcement of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act– the population soared. By 2005, in Washington State alone, it was estimated that there were over 840 breeding pairs. In 2009, the Bald Eagle population of the United States was estimated to be nearly 143,000 birds, expecting to stabilize at 228,000 birds in the next 5 to 15 years.

Speaking of resurgent populations, January to February is the mating season for Bald Eagles. Usually mating for life, male and females perform stunning aerobatic courtship displays with airborne talon clasping and free falls.

Eagle nests, known as aeries or eyries, are one of the largest nests at nearly 5-6 feet in diameter and 2-4 feet in height. Along the Hood Canal, nests are in trees near water or open fields. Old cedar snags, giant spruces, or the larger coniferous trees are favorites. Both the male and female gather branches and twigs to weave into these monstrous nurseries.

The female will typically lay 1-3 eggs and both the male and female will take turns incubating the eggs for 34-36 days. After 10-12 weeks (approximately late summer), when the fledglings have left the nest, the mating pair and fledglings may travel to Northern British Columbia and Alaska to take advantage of the early salmon runs.

PHOTO: DOUGLAS SCOTT

10 BIRD WATCHING SPOTS ON HOOD CANAL

#1. Kennedy Creek Preserve

Kamilche, WA | IBA (Important Birding Area)

Visit 340 acres of wildlife-rich salt flats on Oyster Bay at its confluence with Kennedy and Schneider Creeks. This rich estuarine environment supports a diverse population of residential and migratory shorebirds. This inlet also supports one of the largest flocks of wintering black-bellied plovers in Puget Sound. Kennedy Creek which feeds into the preserve is an excellent salmon-rearing waterway producing up to 80,000 spawning salmon. After spawning, the salmon die and their carcasses wash downstream to the estuary providing food for eagles, and other animals. Discover Pass

#2. Oakland Bay County Park Shelton, WA

A four mile long narrow and shallow estuary, Oakland Bay is one of the most productive shellfish growing areas in the country. While the WDFD property and adjacent Bayshore Preserve on the northern shore of the bay is a good place to scope for birds, the county park directly across the bay offers a wilder setting and good trail system. From the trailhead hike through old-growth trees and an old orchard to the historic 1892-built Malaney-O’Neill House on a small bluff above Oakland Bay. After admiring this structure, walk the short path behind it to overlook the mudflats and oyster beds on Oakland Bay. Look for ospreys, bald eagles and scads of ducks. During the winter months look for dunlins. No Pass

#3. Mary E. Theler Wetlands

Belfair, WA

Enjoy 139 acres of wildlife rich estuary in the Union River Delta at the farthest reaches of fjord-like Hood Canal. The preserve contains five distinct trails that utilize levees and bridges across channels and creeks. The main path leads to a Wetlands Project (education) Center and a native plant demonstration garden. From here the other trails radiate across the preserve. No Pass

#4. Twanoh State Park

Union, WA | IBA

With 182 acres of mature forest and shoreline, the park retains many of its Depression-era CCC structures. It contains 2.5 miles of trails that traverse cedar groves and a lush emerald ravine cradling a salmon-spawning creek. The canal’s much warmer here than to the west and north attracting large populations of waterfowl. Discover Pass

#5. Dosewallips State Park

Brinnon, WA

Over 1000 acres of wildlife habitat along the Dosewallips River at its delta on the fjord. The birding is excellent due to the varied habitats. Explore rich tidal wetlands, riparian forest, and mature forest. Watch for eagles—especially during salmon spawning. Follow the short and flat North Tidal Trail across salt marshes to an observation deck. Discover Pass

#6 Big Quilcene Estuary

Quilcene, WA

WDFW riparian mixed forest, river estuary on Hood Canal. In spring watch for songbirds: Yellow-rumped and Wilson's Warblers,Varied Thrushes, Ruby-crowned Kinglets. Fall salmon runs draw scavengers: Bald Eagles, Common Ravens, Rough-legged Hawks, Glaucous-winged Gulls. Great Egrets poke in marshes, Dunlins at water’s edge. Check river for American Dippers. Winter brings Trumpeter Swans, American and Eurasian Wigeons, Red-necked Grebes. No Pass

#7. Jarrell Cove State Park

Harstine Island, WA

Forests and bluffs on a quiet cove, the park’s uplands provide excellent habitat for residential and migratory songbirds. Look for creepers, finches, flycatchers, nuthatches, towhees, and vireos in the forest. Hike down to the docks for some great cove views—and the chance to spot goldeneyes, grebes, kingfishers, mergansers, loons, scaups, and various gulls. Discover Pass

#8. Potlatch State Park Skokomish, WA

Potlatch consists of 84 acres on the Canal at its bend just north of the Skokomish River Delta. The delta consists of estuary, riparian forests and extensive wetlands. It hosts populations of several avian species including a great blue heron rookery. In the spring watch for dowitchers, western sandpipers, and Wilson’s snipes. Discover Pass

#9. Fort Worden Historical State Park

Port Townsend, WA

An active US Army base for more than 50 years, today Fort Worden is a popular state park. Many of the fort’s buildings have been restored and serve a variety of functions. The 434-acre park also contains high bluffs, a lagoon, mature forest, and extensive beaches. On the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the park attracts a wide array of marine animals and birds. Discover Pass

#10. Fort Flagler Historical State Park Port Hadlock, WA

| IBA (Important Birding Area)

At 780 acres, Fort Flagler is the largest of a series of old military installations on Puget Sound since converted to state parks. In addition to its historic structures and buildings, the park contains beaches and a well-developed trail system.

Owing to its location on Marrowstone Island and surrounded by water on three sides, the park is a great for watching marine birds. Bays, spit, bluffs, mature forest, and meadows provide excellent habitat for birds. Flagler is also a great place to spot pigeon guillemots. Discover Pass

Learn more

To discover more about birding locations on Hood Canal, check out olympicbirdtrail.org as Craig Romano outlines a list of 25 top locations around the Olympic Peninsula.

PROFILE: 40-70 years of age. Patient, concerned about environment. Uses books, magazines, organisations, parks or recommendations from other birdwatchers when deciding where to go. Travel more likely alone, in couples or in small groups.

olympicbirdtrail.org for a curate (Craig Romano) list of locations in the area for birding.

Canal Itinerary THE FORAGER

EDIBLE NATIVE PLANTS OF THE OLYMPIC PENINSULA

By Christina Maloney | Hood Canal Adventures

Did you know that a large percentage of Washington's native plants are edible? They may not all taste good, but many are quite nutritious and delicious. Some can be eaten raw and others are best cooked or used in soups or tea.

Native plants were critical to the survival of the first people of our area. They used them in all aspects of their daily lives – for food, medicine, construction, and even for ceremony. Early pioneers also used native plants to balance their diets and relied on them heavily in the spring to relieve the monotony of dried meat, fish and bread. Here are some highlighs of the more flavorful plants found here in the Spring:

Western Wild Ginger

This inconspicuous plant is found low to middle elevations with substantial tree cover and rich soils. Look for moist Douglas tree forests with

undergrowth plant colonies of ferns, trillium, and mosses. The leaves are dark green and waxy with an undeniable heart shaped. During the spring and summer they produce a small purple flower growing from underneath the leaves. The root of wild ginger is edible and has a spicy, even peppery, strong ginger flavor. Native Americans used this plant to treat headaches, intestinal pain, knee pain, arthritis, indigestion, tuberculosis, colic and as a general tonic.

FOREST EDIBLES FIELD TOUR

Hood Canal Adventures

306146 Hwy 101 N, Brinnon

Learn about wild edible & medicinal plants, lichen and fungi of the Pacific Northwest. Conducted April through October. Tour group size will be between 6 and 14 participants. Private tours for your group may also be arranged for groups of 6 or more. Three hours, $69. hoodcanaladventures.com

Licorice Fern Often found growing on the trunks and branches of deciduous trees, the fronds do not stem from a central location like a sword fern but are creeping, appearing to have a single root for each frond. The root and young stems of this fern tastes just like strong black licorice! It was chewed for flavor and was traditionally used medicinally as a treatment for the cold and sore throats.

Fiddleheads The edible young unfurled fern fronds that rise in the Spring are called fiddleheads because they are usually tightly

coiled and resemble the head of a fiddle. Here the bracken fern and lady fern are the two edible fiddlehead species. Fiddleheads taste like a cross between asparagus with almonds, or artichoke but can sometimes be bitter. Collect bracken fern before the fiddle is unfurled. Lady Fern grows in moist woods and along streams. You may recognize ornamental varieties used in landscaping. Fiddleheads should be cooked well before eating.

Big Leaf Maple Flowers

To identify a Big Leaf Maple, look for large trees with 5 lobed-leaves sometimes growing over a foot in diameter. Trees can be as tall as 150 feet with a multi-branching trunk and hefty branches that are often covered in mosses and licorice ferns. Flowers bloom March through April before the leaves emerge, are greenish-yellow, and numerous, on short stalks that hang in clusters. The sweet flower clusters may also be found on the ground after a windstorm. Try eating them straight, adding them to salads, or making maple blossom fritters.

Rules of Wild Food Collection

• Know what you are picking

• Collect only what you positively identify as edible

• Harvest only plants that look healthy

• Clean and prepare like you do cultivated crops

• Eat small quantities when first trying a plant

• Get property owners permission before gathering

• Never over-harvest.

• Take only what you need.

If you are foraging on U.S. Forest Service lands you do not need a permit for “incidental use”, meaning your use of plants while you are camping or hiking in the forest. If you are harvesting for at-home use you may need a “Free Use Permit.” Contact your Forest Service District Office for details.

For a fun hands-on introduction to native edible plants, join Hood Canal Adventures on one of their Interpretive Native Edible Plant Hikes offered throughout the year. Call 360-301-6310 for details or visit hoodcanaladventures.com.

Okay, so maybe that's a wives tale... but nobody can deny that most shellfish is much better in the cooler months. Want to harvest your own bivalves? You are in luck! Each year, state biologists perform population surveys to stock public beaches with oysters and clams – ready for the harvest!

If you harvest clams or oysters, keep them on ice or eat them soon after harvest.

Whether there's an "R" in the month or not, the secret to safe shellfish is safe handling and that obviously starts with keeping them cool. From the moment that oyster leaves the beach it is susceptible to a host of threats that can take fun tidal date to hanging on the porcelain all night. And you don't want that.

A trail to follow

The Washington Shellfish Trail is where to start your journey. Since 2017, volunteers have worked with growers, cook, and harvesters to create itineraries that bivalve enthusiasts can follow to explore shellfish. Did you know that the North Bay WDFW property boasts the largest population of Olympia oysters in Puget Sound?

What can yo do?

Before you harvest check to make sure the beach you are picking is open. For current shellfish seasons check wdfw.wa.gov/ places-to-go/shellfish-beaches, the Shellfish Hotline (866) 880-5431. Now gather your gear (don't forget the gloves to protect your hands), and remember to bring ice and a cooler.

Canal Itinerary THE FEARLESS SLURPER Month with an "R"? Harvest.

Visit shellfishtrail.org to learn more about your local shellfish trail including information on itineraries, road trips and shellfish sites and events you can enjoy.

How about that Chelsea Oyster Farm has an award winning oyster bar in Olympia’s waterfront featuring Totten oysters grown in South Puget Sound?

Similar to Eastern Washington wine trails, the shellfish trail will bring you from the Columbia River north to the Canadian border and explore not only Washington’s famous oysters, but also clams, geoduck, and mussels.

Visit farms, gather your own shellfish off public beaches and attend events that embrace this resource, The Washington Shellfish Trail will guide you on your yearround journey.

The shellfish trail is a project sponsored by the National Sea Grant Program. Through a partnership with the mapping and itinerary capabilities of ScenicWA, followers of the trail are able to select geographical tour or focus on one specific type of shellfish.

Building upon the other Washington trail systems such as the Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway, stops include points of interest and learning opportunities to enhance your adventure.

Remember to always check your beach for safety before harvesting. If you prefer to have the harvesting done for you, head over to a local farm retail store for a fresh selection.

Our Local Bivalves

Get to know a few species

NATIVE LITTLENECK CLAM

Up to 3.5” with rounded shell displaying concentric rings and radiating ridge lines, cream, gray, brown, or mottled. White inside shell; found at 6-10” deep in gravel, mud, mid-tide level.

MANILA LITTLENECK CLAM (NOT NATIVE)

Up to 2.5”, oblong shell, Color can vary—typically gray,brown, or mottled and often times with what appears to be hand painted designs; some purple on the inside shell; found at 2-4” in gravel, mud, sand, typically above the half-tide level.

BUTTER CLAM

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

COCKLE CLAM

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

PACIFIC OYSTERS (NOT NATIVE)

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

MASON COUNTY'S BEACH shellfish

Forage on Washington’s Wild Side.

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

LILLIWAUP STATE PARK

Full off on Hwy 101, stairway to beach at north opening of Lilliwaup Bay. Walk north or south when tide is out. Oysters and Clams. Eagles and osprey. Overnight RV camping permitted; no restrooms.

HOODSPORT

TAYLOR SHELLFISH

130 SE Lynch Rd Shelton (360) 432-3300

Public boat dock with beach access. Starfish and crabs at low tide. Closed to shellfish gathering. Picnic tables & restrooms,nearby dining, grocery and shopping.

POTLATCH BEACH PARK

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

OYSTERFEST

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

OLYMPIA OYSTER

Up to 3”, rounded shell, white to purplish black and may be striped with yellow or brown; oyster’s flesh is a light olive green with a metallic flavor. Native oyster to the area and currently protected in wild habitats.

MUSSELS

Blue Mussel (native) up to 3”, California Mussel (native) up to 6”, Mediterranean non-native) up to 5”. Oblong shell, blueblack or brown, attaches to rocks, pilings, boats, gravel, or other hard surfaces in the intertidal zone with bissel threads.

GEODUCK

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

WALKER PARK

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

OYSTER BAY

Easy beach access on marshy estuary. Popular for bird watching and salmon observing/fishing. Pullout on Hwy 101 near Mile Marker 356; near KENNEDY CREEK INTERPRETATIVE TRAIL.

Taylor’s product line includes worldwide export of geoduck, clams, mussels and oysters. Headquartered in Kamilche, retail store is open daily. taylorshellfish.com explorehoodcanal.com

SHELTON

MATLOCK

POTLATCH

HOODSPORT

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

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

Small beach with dramatic view of the Olympics. Lots of ripe berries in late summer. From Belfair: take the Belfair-Tahuya Road to Dewatto Rd. Continue four miles to Dewatto. Parking limited.

BELFAIR STATE PARK

Nice beaches for walking and exploring with summer water temperatures surprisingly warm. Restrooms, camping and picnic facilities.

CHECK. CHILL. COOK.

CHECK: Health closures and advisories: doh.wa.gov/shellfishsafety Harvesting closures: wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfishing-regulation Signs on the beach: Follow posted warnings and respect private property.

CHILL: Harvest shellfish on the outgoing tide and put on ice as soon as possible to prevent bacterial growth. Keep them cold until ready to eat. Cover in fridge with a wet cloth to prevent drying out.

COOK: Cook shellfish in summer months when Vibrio illnesses can occur. To kill Vibrio bacteria cook shellfish to 145° F for at least 15 seconds, cooking does not destroy biotoxins.

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

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

MENARD’S LANDING

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

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

ALLYN

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

TWANOH STATE PARK

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

UNION CITY MARKET

5101 E State Route 106 | Union | (360) 898-3500

HUNTER FARMS

921 WA-106, Union | (360) 426-2222

Direct farm to market retail includes Hood Canal oysters at the general store located on the farm.

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

NORTH BAY

Community park offers beach access, a picnic area and portable restroom and is very popular with kayakers, fishermen and local residents. Located on SR-3 at the south end of Allyn. The parking area is open only during the shellfish season.

Local Seafood

Here are a few locations that serve Hood Canal & South Puget Sound seafood on their menus.

Bistro at Lakeland Village

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

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

HOPE ISLAND STATE PARK

A 106-acre marine camping park reachable only by boat. Covered with old-growth forests and saltwater marshes, the park features a beach oneand-a-half miles long. Access by boat only.

CHELSEA FARMS OYSTER BAR

222 CAPITOL WAY N, OLYMPIA | (360) 915-7784

Eld & Totten Inlet, South Puget Sound Chelsea Farm have made a priority of farming the native Olympia oyster that was on it’s way to extinction. Visit their oyster bar in Olympia for local seafood experience! chelseafarms.net

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

The Fjord Oyster Bank

24341 N US Hwy 101, Hoodsport (360) 877-2102

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

Hook & Fork

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

Restaurant at Alderbrook

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

Spencer Lake Bar & Grill 1180 E Pickering Rd, Shelton (360) 426-2505

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

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

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

LOWER BIG QUILCENE RIVER

Distance: 10.2 miles roundtrip

Elevation Gain: 800 feet

High Point: feet

Difficulty: moderate

Snow free: April to November

Trailhead Pass Needed: Northwest Forest

Pass or Interagency Pass

Notes: trail open to bikes, motorbikes, horses

GPS waypoints: N47 47.008 W122 57.903

Features: kid-friendly, dog friendly, rhododendrons, old-growth forest, river canyon, backpacking opportunities.

PHOTO: CRAIG ROMANO

Exploring the Emerald Tones Lower Big Quilcene River

The Lower Big Quilcene River Trail begs to be hiked on an overcast spring day. When the surrounding high country is still blanked in a carpet of white, the Lower Big Quil valley is displaying brilliant emerald tones.

Walk along a frothy river and through patches of primeval forest shrouded in mosses. The river roars fueled by the spring melt while wrens and thrushes pipe out soothing melodies. It’s a peaceful environment despite nature’s noisy score. And crowds? Not here on this delightful trail in the Olympic National Forest.

Hit the Trail

What is now referred to as the Lower Big Quilcene River Trail was once part of a much longer Big Quilcene River Trail which ran for 15 miles from Walker Pass to Marmot Pass. The trailhead was located where the old Rainbow Campground once stood also the site of an old guard station. From here the trail dropped into the Big Quilcene River Canyon, crossed the river and worked its way up to where the current trailhead is located, close to the old (and long gone) Big Quil campground.

All that is left of this section of trail is a tiny 0.5 mile stretch now called the Rainbow Trail leading to the canyon bottom. The stretch west from the current trailhead is intact but now truncated by a logging road, Forest Road 2750.

West of the road the trail is referred to as the Upper Big Quilcene River Trail, but most folks know it simply as the hike to Marmot Pass.

And with this incredibly scenic notch in the mountains now only a 10.2 mile round trip not a 30-mile journey, it has become one of the most popular hiking destinations in the eastern Olympic Mountains.

Not so for the Lower Big Quil making it a great choice for quieter wandering. While this trail lacks views, lakes and other draws for the masses, it offers charming walking along a beautiful river—and despite past logging in the area, it traverses some impressive groves of old trees as well, But perhaps its biggest draw is its low elevation allowing for a decent hike in the Olympic Mountains much earlier or later in the season than the nearby high country routes. The Lower Big Quil is usually hikable in May and stays snow free well into November. Stroll this way in late May and June and enjoy blossoming Pacific rhododendrons; while Coltsfoot, Bleeding heart (Dicentra), Canada Dogwood (Bunchberry) and Twinflower brightens up the forest floor.

The trail starts on an old road bed at an elevation of 1400 feet. The river is far below and not in sight. The way parallels above a logging road slowly descending. After about a mile the trail bends north pulling away from the road and entering a steep-walled canyon housing the Big Quilcene River.

Feature Columnist

Craig Romano

Craig is an award-winning guidebook author, outdoors writer and photographer, ardent conservationist, and Northwest trails and hiking expert. He hikes, runs, paddles, and bikes and has written about these passions for more than two dozen publications, including; Seattle Met, Backpacker, Paddler, Northwest Runner, AMC Outdoors, and Northwest Travel and Life. Craig writes weekly content for Hikeoftheweek.com and is the author of more than 25 books. Craig has been a regular columnist in Tracing the Fjord since 2019. craigromano.com

PHOTO: CRAIG ROMANO

PHOTO: CRAIG ROMANO

The going is easy on well maintained and well graded tread. Soon regain the elevation you gave up and then descend 100 feet once again crossing a cascading tributary along the way.

The trail now within close proximity of the crashing Big Quil comes to a bridge crossing it at 2.5 miles. Here just below its confluence with Townsend Creek (which starts high on the slopes of Mount Townsend) is a beautiful grove of towering old-growth forest. Less than a quarter-mile farther is the Bark Shanty Camp, a wonderful place to set up for

the night and let the river’s whitewater white noise lull you to sleep. This site used to host a shelter, one of more than 100 built in the Olympics in the 1920s and 30s. Sadly the majority of them have fallen into disrepair or were removed over the last several decades.

The trail continues soon coming to a second river crossing. Here a sturdy bridge replacing a long standing wooden one does the trick. Just past the bridge is the western terminus of the Notch Pass Trail, another historic, uncrowded and perfect for late spring trail.

This is a good spot to turn around for a short hike of just under 6 miles roundtrip. The Lower Big Quilcene River Trail however continues following alongside the crashing river and now heading westward.

The way now undulates between old rapidly recovering clear-cuts and primeval groves of towering conifers all while gaining very little elevation. Cross several side creeks along the way, all mere trickles in late season but potential boot soakers in the spring. At just over five miles reach Jolley Creek which definitely involves a little fording most of the year. You can turn around here for a good hike of 10.2 miles roundtrip—or if inclined to see Camp Jolley on the creek’s west bank splash on through! Beyond the trail continues for a little more than a mile to reach its upper trailhead on Forest Road 2750—which is where the hike for Marmot Pass and the crowds begin!

Additional Details

Land Agency Contact:Olympic National Forest, Hood Canal Ranger District, Quilcene; http://www.fs.usda.gov/olympic

Recommended Guidebook: Urban Trails

Olympia (Romano, Mountaineers Books)

Trailhead directions: From Shelton follow US 101 north for 50.5 miles turning left (just before entering Quilcene) onto Penny Creek Road. Proceed for 1.5 miles and bear left onto Big Quilcene River Road (Forest Road 27). Continue for 3.4 miles, turn left onto FR 27-080. Reach trailhead in 0.4 mile.

Trailhead facilities: privy

PHOTO: CRAIG ROMANO

Embrace Pacific Northwest Wild Flower Season

Although the Pacific Northwest is known for its temperate rainforests accompanied by an abundant amount of green, with the spring approaching, we can start to look forward to the colorful relief offered by the return of the flowers.

May to June is the best time of year for finding the delicate jewel tones on the 'wet' coast. Whilst domesticated daffodils and tulips will always be celebrated markers of Spring, our native plants are the real gems of the forests understory.

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, take a ramble down one of our forested walks, like Twanoh State Park Trail or maybe Lower Big Quilcene River trail!

Keep your eyes peeled for the first nodding, purple blossoms of Henderson's Shooting Star (Dodecatheon hendersonii) and the showy, pinky-purple blooms of our local variety of Rhododendron (Rhododendron macrophyllum). There are nearly 30 varieties of Rhododendrons native to North America. The Pacific Rhododendron is Washington’s State flower and is found in drier parts of the Hood Canal in the understory of coniferous forests.

PHOTO: CRAIG ROMANO

Pacific Rhododendron can also be seen in partly sunny, open areas, such as along roads. The Pacific Rhododendrons and also Goat's Beard (Aruncus dioicus) can be found in proliference along the winding, scenic Olympic Highway. For an especially spectacular showing of the native rhodendrons, head up to the scenic outlook on Mount Walker.

In sunnier, damper areas, near streams, look for the bright pink flowers of Pink Fawn Lily (Erythronium revolutum) or the iconic, if not slightly smelly, “West Coast Daffodil”— Skunk Cabbage (Fritillaria lanceolata). Also in sightly shady, waterside spots, look for carpets of pink Bleeding Heart (Dicentra formosa)— a more delicate version of our domestic variety. Try the Kamilche Kennedy Creek Trail for these humid loving flowers.

As the weather gets warmer (from May to June) search in the partly shady area of the woods for the trailing tender beauty of Orange Honeysuckle (Lonicera ciliosa), and the yellow blossoms of Tall Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium). The delicate, orange-red blooms of Red Columbine (Aquilegia formosa) also emerge during this time.

Other blossoms to look for in the late spring are the azure, crocus-like flowers of the Common Camas (Camassia quamash). Found in full sunlight in open places, such as fields, parklands, the bulbs from the Camas were an important part of the diet of Native Americans. Known as k’a’w˜up to the Skokomish and sxa’dzaêb by the Squaxin, this bulbous flower was actively cultivated and traded between Nations throughout

ST.

GERMAIN CHURCH

(The Church on the Hill)

600 Lake Cushman Road

PO Box 222

Hoodsport, WA 98548

Phone: (360) 877-9879

stgermainhoodsport.org

FaceBook: St Germain's Church Hoodsport

Email: saintgermainhoodsport@gmail.com

Holy Eucharist Sunday 10:30 a.m.

the Pacific Northwest who would harvest the bulbs in the early spring and roast them in pit cooks.

On one of those calm days when you believe it might just be summer here early, pack a lunch and hop in the boat and travel to Hope Island Marine State Park. Here you will be greeted by lovely trails and beautiful naturalized gardens with a mix of introduced and native species.

Once settled as a farm, Hope Island has historic fruit trees mixed in with native camas, honeysuckle and the elegant red, trunks of Madrone (Arbutus menziesii). An unusual looking plant found along sun-facing, beach banks is the Red Paintbrush (Castilleja miniata), whose tiny green flowers are hidden in bright red leaves that give the appearance of a brush dipped in red paint. Since most of these species are protected against picking or transplant ing, remember to keep your enjoyment to viewing.

Washington State Parks Discover Pass

FREE Days in 2024

March 9 — Billy Frank Junior's Birthday

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

March 19 — State Parks’ 111th Birthday

April 22 — Earth Day

June 8 — National Get Outdoors Day

June 9 — Free Fishing Day

June 19 — Juneteenth

Sept. 28 — National Public Lands Day

Oct. 10 — World Mental Health Day

Nov. 11 — Veterans Day

Nov. 29 — Autumn Day

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

Olympic National Park Fee Free Days

Saturday, April 20 — First Day of National Park Week

Wednesday, June 19 — Juneteenth

Sunday, August 4 — The Great American Outdoors Act

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

Saturday, September 28 — National Public Lands Day

Monday, November 11 — Veterans Day

Olympus Rally Returns

April 20-21 | Shelton

Olympus Rally is back in our area for another exciting, race-filled weekend on April 20 & 21, 2024.

This event goes back to the 1970s in Mason County with a reboot in the early 2000s that helped reignite the excitement as some of the top rally racers in the country come to show off their driving and drifting skills. There will still be the traditional Downtown Shelton Expo on the Saturday of the event where fans can get an up-close look at the cars and meet the racers, the Shelton Fred Meyer this year is also going to host an event Sunday morning where you can again meet with and interact with the drivers.

It takes a lot of help to put on this event, some 250 people are needed to help monitor spectator areas, help with the race track, help drivers and teams, and more. You can sign up to help on their website, www. olympusrally.com.

This family-friendly event includes top competitors from all over the world. The Olympus Rally has a rich rally history as being one of the only rallies in the U.S. to have world acclaim. It began in 1973 as part of the SCCA Pro Rally Championship and quickly became known for its long, tortuous, and twisting stages.

For additional information on the 2024 Olympus rally, visit olympusrally.com

Olympus Rally photo

Get set for FJORD FEST

May 24 & 25

Set to the scenic backdrop of the Olympic Mountains with stunning views of one of North America's largest natural fjords, Hood Canal Fjord Fest is a celebration of local food, art, and music. This all-ages festival offering kid's activities and rides, as well as a beer/wine garden, donates all raised funds to local charitable causes.

Visit Brinnon Memorial Day weekend for all-day music, PNW artistry, local flavors, and fun on the fjord! Booths of artisans and craftspeople showcasing and selling their unique wares. The 2024 live entertainment includes bluegrass music, funky rock, folk rock and good old rock and roll.

Mark your calendars and make lodging reservations now as you won't want to miss out on this family friendly celebration of our region's rich heritage and stunning natural beauty. For more information visit the event website at fjordfest.org.

Rail Riding 2024

Mason County has just the right activity with universal appeal to all ages – not to mention exercise, fresh air, forest bathing and even a little history – Vance Creek Railriders is now taking reservations for their May opening.

What to Expect

The rails are part of an old track built by the Simpson Logging Company, so along with clacking past beautiful wooded scenery and crossing over creeks lined with ferns, Vance Creek’s rail journey provides a snapshot of the Northwest’s rich logging history. Until not that long ago, timber trains moved logs along these very rails to the mills in nearby Shelton. This system was the last operating privately-owned logging railroad in the continental US.

You'll leave the main road to follow a gravel logging road to Camp 1. Arrive 30 minutes early for a safety briefing before getting adjusted in your seats.

As you pedal the multi-seat cart you will have the opportunity to see forests as well as meadows teeming with flowers, moss, and maybe even catch a glimpse of some wildlife – although the cheering, laughter and rail clacking may put them on the alert! Pedal down across the winding Goldsborough Creek and return up a gradual grade.

Despite its leisurely pace, this is a physical adventure. Most guests are able to pedal the average .75% grade back up to Camp 1 with a portion of the rail at a 2% grade. But don’t worry – if you struggle, the engine will give you a push back up if needed.

This gentle, but vigorous ride is suitable for all ages. Children under 12 years old need to be accompanied by an adult on their cart.  The typical age to be able to help pedal is 6-8 years old depending on leg length. Smaller children who can’t touch the pedals or who are known to be a wiggle worms can use a car seat.

Be sure to dress in layers as you will be traveling in wooded area where it can go from shade to sun. Also bring snacks and water as the location is remote.

14 Handcrafted Award Winning Wines

Reserve in Advance

The popular pedal-powered rail rides with Vance Creek Railriders will be opening for their season May 18 with three daily departures of the 2-hour excursion at 9 AM, 12 PM, and 3 PM, Thursday through Monday. Tickets are $36/adults and children 12 years and older; $24/children 11 and under. Reservations are available through September 29 at vcrailriders.com.

New Coffee Spot Opens in Shelton

Downtown coffee drinkers have reason to celebrate as the Marmo Caffè & Gallery finally tore the paper off their windows on Cota Street and revealed a bright modern art space with a clean fresh vibe and delicious coffee.

Open Wednesday- Sunday, 8 - 3 PM, the minimalistic decor highlights rotating artists and features surprise pop-ups (follow their Facebook page for schedules). Gallery first, coffee & unique menu second, their ambitious goals of establishing an arts district on Cota Street are off to a enthusiastic start. Whether you come in for Olympia roast coffee; seedy toast with ricotta, flaky sea salt, olive oil, & basil; to pick up a tin of Spanish sardines; to browse the selection of art books; or simple bathe in the talent awash from the gallery walls – Marmo is setting the standards for a coffee break well spent. 217 W Cota St.

HAMA HAMA OYSTER FARM

THE

CRYING UNCLE BAND (CA)

THE LONESOME TOWN PAINTERS (BC)

HEARTBREAK

PASS (ID)

WORKSHOPS

CHICK

MANDOLIN

JULIA’S BEAR

by Lisa Nickel

“Bear! Bear!” Julia yelled as the black form bounded across the road in front of her. She’d seen the animal come out of the bushes towards her as she rode her bike on a quiet street in our community with her younger cousin, Wes. She instinctively stood up straight on her pedals, pulled a U-ey, and came flying back to our property with Wes on her tail.

A moment later she skidded into our driveway spraying gravel everywhere. She hopped off in one leap as her bike clambered to the ground with a crash. Not bothering to take her bike helmet off, she ran up to our camper and shouted for me.

“Mom! Mom!”

In the middle of packing up to go home after spending a Memorial Day weekend at our Hood Canal property in our camper trailer, I came outside. We’d celebrated Julia’s eleventh birthday and had some adventures which left the trailer in need of a serious cleaning.

“There’s a bear! There’s a bear! Down at the T-intersection! It came running out of the bushes on my left and ran across the road right in front of me!”

Julia stopped to catch her breath. She pointed in the direction she referred to. Wes came in just then. “Calm down. It was just a big, black dog.”

I caught his emphasis on the canine reference and his eye roll. At the commotion, my husband had come out of our shed to listen.

Julia looked at Wes like he’d just gone bonkers. The betrayal in Julia’s eyes was evident.

This particular spring there had been recent reports of black bear sightings in Colony Surf on Hood Canal, where we own a patch of land, but with the Memorial Day weekend hoopla, we all assumed the noise of weekend warrior campers like us, and the club festivities would have driven the bears out of the area.

“Wes, I know what I saw. I saw a bear. That was a bear.” She continued adamantly.

The strength in her statements concerned me. My husband and I looked up the street with concern. The trees swayed in the wind. All was quiet and void of any animal.

Even though Julia knew what she saw, she realized she would never be able to prove it. Still upset, Julia decided to stick around camp and ride her bike up and down our short street with our Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Hollie, resting in our driveway.

With chores to do, I reluctantly went back inside the trailer to finish packing and cleaning up while my husband went back to storing our firepit chairs and other camping items. I kept peeking out to check on Julia.

Suddenly, I heard more ruckus.

“Bear! Bear! Mom! Mom!”

I poked my head out of the trailer and to my surprise saw a black bear cub charge out and run down the shoulder of our little road. The cub looked at Julia screaming and waving her hands, turned, and ran parallel down the road away from Julia. It obviously wanted nothing to do with this firecracker.

“The friendly and fun local shop with something for everyone!”

I quickly called Hollie and got her inside the trailer before she saw the bear as Julia ran straight towards me.

Larry, the club caretaker, was right behind the bear cub, following it ever so slowly with his work truck. He snapped a picture of the bear as it retreated off into the brush. Larry circled around and rolled down his window.

“I’ve been tracking this little guy all morning. I just followed here from down at the T-intersection.”

“I told you guys! I told you guys!” Julia was right, it had been a bear all along.

We said goodbye to Larry as he was intent on continuing to track the bear. We finished our packing up and headed home. Later that week Washington Fish and Game set bear traps and was able to capture and relocate a mama bear and her two cubs back up into the Olympic Mountains.

To this day, when we reminisce with Larry about that Memorial Day weekend, we refer to that scared little bear cub as “Julia’s Bear”. We continue to be thankful Julia instinctively knew to make herself tall, yell, and wave her arms when she saw her bear.

What should you do if you Encounter a Bear?

Remain standing as tall and calmly as possible.

Speak in a calm, assertive but soft, monotone voice to the bear.

Wave your arms to let the animal know you are human.

Back up slowly toward a secure area.

Be sure to leave the bear a clear escape route.

Avoid direct eye contact with the bear at all cost.

Stop and hold your ground if your movement away seems to irritate the bear.

Walk away slowly if the bear is not approaching.

Stand your ground if the bear charges and repeat above steps.

Matlock Old Timer's Fair

May 4 – 5 | Matlock

Each spring the tiny, West Mason County town of Matlock welcomes the world to the Old Timer’s Historical Fair. The free fair provides fun for the whole family with live music, animals, rides, delicious food, historical displays, a variety of crafts as the community celebrates Matlock’s heritage in the timber industry with draft horses, early day machines and motors, and blacksmithing.

Additionally, there will be antique booths, kids’ activities, hand-crafted items, historical events, agricultural events, food, a firewood raffle, prizes and live music.

While most of the displays are inside and outside the school buildings, the adjacent museum features displays from early Matlock. One of our favorites is the root display.

Other attractions include kids’ train rides, a tractor parade, plant and starter vegetable sales, classic cars, and tractors.

The steam engines will be the star of the show with the Dolbeer steam donkey– used in the timber industry 100 years ago.

Admission is free for this event; it is held the first weekend in May each year on the campus of Mary M. Knight School. The school is located at 2987 Matlock-Brady Rd., about five miles south of the Matlock store and 15 miles north of Highway 8.

For additional details visit explorehoodcanal.com/events.

State Parks will hire more than 300 park aides

Parks is looking for more than 300 park aides to work from April through September.

Park aides register campers, clean campgrounds and maintain trails and facilities. They also staff park offices, assist visitors and help with interpretive and educational programs.

Aides earn $16.90 to $23.40 an hour, depending on qualifications and experience. Park aides have the chance to grow

with the agency, and many have gone on to success as rangers, customer service and human resources managers.

Applications are open now through August at park.wa.gov.

Through the Garden Gate:

the workshops this year. See page 22.

Saturday, Feb 25, 6 -10 PM

1060 West Eells Hill Road, Shelton

Friends of the Hoodsport Library Book Sale

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

Atomic Washington: Our Nuclear Past, Present, and Future

Sunday February 26, 1:30 - 3 PM

3371 E Harstine Is Road N, Shelton

The next Hoodsport Friends book sale will take place March 23 from 10:00 –4:30 PM at the Hoodsport Library at 40 North Schoolhouse Hill Road.

Washington State’s role in the nuclear era ranges far beyond the construction, operation, and ongoing cleanup of the Hanford nuclear reservation.

Drawing from history, science, and popular culture, author Steve Olson reveals the ways in which our state has been a pioneer in the atomic age.

MARCH

OFFSHORE: Culinary Adventure

Tent at Alderbrook

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

10 E Alderbrook Drive, Union

Proceeds from last book sale in November of 2023 provided funds for the Library’s programming and activities. The programming includes old favorites, such as children’s activities, including preschool play and read dates, craft days, and new programming, such as Dungeons and Dragons.

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

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

Saturday, March 4, 9:30 - 12 PM

NEED HELP PLANNING

Mason County Public Works, Shelton

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

March's Book Sale will feature fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, cookbooks, craft books, biographies and other genres. There will be a few CD’s and DVD’s. The books will be in “like new” condition and be priced at $2 for hardbound and $1 for soft cover.

There will be a table for books that have languished, and those books will be available at a greatly reduced price.

Free day at WA State Parks

Thursday, March 9, all day

Celebrate the legacy of Billy Frank Junior's Birthday.

Through the Garden Gate:

Native Bees a Buzzin'

Cash is preferred, but for purchase over $5, credit cards will be accepted. The library has free parking, and is handicap accessible.

Saturday, March 11, 9:30 - 12 PM

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

Interested in getting involved? The Friends of the Library welcomes new members. The friends are also accepting donations of books that are in “like new” condition.

Your message on the radio and in print.

“Over 82% of Americans listen to the radio each week, including over 87% of U.S. adults 35-64, 82% of U.S. adults from 18-49, and 75% of 18-24 year olds.” statistica.com (2022)

Did you know that the KMAS 1030 AM/103.3 FM signal reaches as far as Tacoma, Bremerton, Aberdeen, and Centralia? (radio-locator.com). As the “Voice of Mason County” KMAS also reaches your friends and neighbors from Allyn and Shelton to Belfair & Hoodsport, as well as on their commutes to Bemerton, SeaTac, and Olympia. TRACING THE FJORD is proud to be a part of their family!

Radio is available 24/7 and is accessible to everyone.

The Fjord Magazine is celebrating 7 years of stories about South Puget Sound (Olympia, Allyn, to Elma and Matlock) and Hood Canal – from Port Gamble to Belfair!

Our FREE quarterly magazine is on the WA State Ferries and available for pick up at over 120 public locations, with 10K print copies & 15K + online downloads, the reach keeps growing!

KMAS.COM

AM 1030/ FM 103.3

Our readers, local & visiting, are your best prospects.

Lake Limerick Golf Course and Café are ready to make your next golf outing enjoyable

The beautiful award winning and challenging nine-hole HOA owned golf course is open to the public year-round

Winner of the Mason County 2023 People’s Choice award, the Café staff are ready to provide a hearty breakfast before your round or a sizzling burger for lunch after your round.

Limerick's course is in excellent shape with new improvements on course as well as renovations inside the Pro Shop and café.

The staff are able to assist guests with course reservations for any size group. They can also help reserve future tournaments. If you are searching for a venue, the Great Hall, Lake front rental space is available at the LLCC Inn. Contact 360-426-3581 for building reservations or learn more online at lakelimerick.com.

Need more information?

Call (360) 427-5599 or email PRINT & GRAPHICS: rachel@nwevent.org RADIO & EVENTS: jeff@nwevent.org, KMAS (360) 426-1030.

tracingthefjord.com

The last Saturday in April is the Lake Limerick Community Fishing Derby. A day of fishing, golf, food, fun and tons of prizes.

Reach Lake Limerick Golf at 360426-6290 or lakelimerickgolf.com.

LLGC Pro Shop, Mark Hendricks, Pro Shop Manager and members

Situated between the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains in Mason County, is Hood Canal. A place filled with world-class activities, wild-caught fare, lively events, and plenty of places to hide away from it all when you just want the world to yourself.

Hood Canal is Washington’s wild side. And it’s here for you, when you’re ready to discover yours.

#WILDSIDEWA

KAYAKING

Whether you seek tide-ripped saltwater passages, challenging whitewater, or lakes big and small, Hood Canal is a kayaker, canoer, or paddleboarder’s ideal destination.

A rich paddling community supports any adventurer’s vision; rental packages and lesson opportunities for the budding kayaker or paddleboarder are not in short supply. Get out on the water and enjoy a fresh perspective of the canal with colossal peaks towering overhead.

THINGS TO DO FALLS TO FISHING

45

MAP/LODGING SHELTON & KAMILCHE

48

MAP/LODGING HOOD CANAL AREA

49-55

EXPERIENCE THE WILD SIDE OF WASHINGTON

Like a giant fish hook weaving beneath the Olympics with a web of inlets, Hood Canal is poised to catch your imagination and reel in memories for years to come. This majestic saltwater fjord hosts unparalleled shellfish, shrimp, crab, and salmon and is renown as a diving mecca with its glacial formation causing underwater biomes that appear nowhere else. Venture away from the canal to Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest for hiking and thrilling vistas. Choose from hundreds of easy access freshwater lakes or revel in waterfall views including the iconic High Steel Bridge. Ablaze with wildflowers in the spring, hidden swimming holes in the summer, a chance to see spawning salmon in the fall, and snow-capped peaks in the winter, there is never an inopportune time to visit Hood Canal.

CLEAR YOUR MIND AND GO CHASING WATERFALLS

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

HIGH STEEL BRIDGE

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

MOTORSPORTS

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

TRAILS & WALKS

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

TAKE A LEAP

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

TASTING YOUR WAY AROUND THE CANAL & SOUND

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

PICK A PEAK

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

RIDE THE RAILS

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

vancecreekrailriders.com

FISHING

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

BIKING

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

PHOTO:

UP YOUR GOLF GAME

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

ALDERBROOK GOLF

(360) 898-2560 | Union alderbrookgolf.com

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

LAKE CUSHMAN GOLF

(360) 877-5505 | Hoodsport lakecushmangolfcourse.com

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

LAKE LIMERICK GOLF

(360) 426-6290 | Shelton lakelimerick.com

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

LAKELAND VILLAGE

(360) 275-6100 | Allyn lakelandliving.com

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

SALISH CLIFFS GOLF

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

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

SHELTON DISC GOLF

masoncountydiscgolf.com

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

CRUISE THE HOOD

Explore the canal with your own boat or arrange with ALDERBROOK RESORT. Scheduled & private charters available. alderbrookresort.com

SCUBA DIVING

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

FOR THE BIRDS

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

ON THE WATER

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

Ridge

LakeCushman

POTLATCH STATE PARK

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

SHELTON VISITOR CENTER

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

ISABELLA LAKE TRAILS

EASY 2.5 mile loop, rolling meadows

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

HUNTER FARMS

Farm Market, seasonal events; Visitor Center

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

TAYLOR SHELLFISH STORE

Fresh seafood, tours available; open to public. Hwy 101 to Taylor Towne Exit.

SQUAXIN ISLAND TRIBE MUSEUM

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

SCHAFER STATE PARK TRAIL

Trails, interpretive center, swimming, fishing. TO GO: 12 miles north of Elma on the East Fork of the Satsop River. The park is also accessible via the Brady exit from Hwy 12.

DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED

ALLYN

Waterfront park features gazebo and lawns, play area, and beach access.

NO FEE/PASS

HARSTINE ISLAND TRAIL

300 acres to explore

EASY 1.5 mile, beach

DISCOVER PASS

HOPE ISLAND STATE PARK

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

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

THE KENNEDY CREEK SALMON TRAIL

Chum salmon are on view as they make their way up river TOPOGRAPHY: flat, viewing platforms, interpretive signs

TO GO: Hwy 101, Old Olympic Hwy; weekends, seasonally.

NO FEE/ PASS

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

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

CAMPING FEES

STAIRCASE | OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK

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

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

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

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

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

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

LOWER LENA LAKE TRAIL

Well maintained popular trail leads to a small lake

MODERATE TO DIFFICULT 3 mile climb,switchbacks

TO GO: Hwy 101 at Hamma Hamma Recreation Area

UPPER LENA LAKE TRAIL

Steep with unstable bed; camping.

MODERATE TO DIFFICULT 4.3 mile climb

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

TO GO: Same as Lower Lena Lake Trail above.

WILDERNESS PERMIT FOR CAMPING

NW FOREST PASS FOR PARKING

BIG CREEK

Great pack-in picnic destination with pools and footbridges.

MODERATE 4 miles

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

NW FOREST PASS

HAMA HAMA STORE

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

EAGLE CREEK

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

HAMMA HAMMA

LIVING LEGACY TRAIL

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

EASY TO MODERATE 1.5 mile loop.

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

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

WILDERNESS PERMIT REQUIRED FOR CAMPING

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

TO GO: Belfair-Tahuya Rd to Dewatto Rd, 4 miles. SERVICES AT PORT OF DEWATTO CAMPGROUND

TAHUYA STATE FOREST

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

TOPOGRAPHY deep woods

TO GO: Hwy 300/Belfair Tahuya Rd, 1.1 mile. DISCOVER

HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER

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

MENARD’S LANDING

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

DALBY WATERWHEEL

TO GO: SR#106

VISITOR CENTER/ BELFAIR LICENSING

TO GO: On Hwy 3 in Belfair PASSES FOR PURCHASE Park/ vehicle/vessel/fishing/hunting northmasonchamber.com

HUG THE CURVES

navigates the bays of HOOD CANAL,

relaxing dockside of a beachside cabin, watching the seals roll off the rocks

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.

FORAGE DINNER

Come prepared with buckets and boots. Check regs at wdfw.wa.gov before digging – or stop by HAMA HAMA STORE & OYSTER SALOON for freshly prepared seafood.

DIVE DEEPER

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

A CUT ABOVE

The

WATERFRONT

The

There

BEACH WALK

ALLYN

enjoy gorgeous views

protected harbor waters of Case Inlet. The area features quaint shops, waterfront lodging, restaurants, and beach parks.

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

ITINERARY 5: BELFAIR AREA

TAKE A WALK ON BOARDWALK

Hood Canal’s wild 139 acre THELER WETLANDS hosts two miles of trails.

1,700+ feet of floating boardwalk, native plants, and interpretive kiosks to experience wetland wildlife. olympicbirdtrail.org

SALMON STRONG

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

VISITOR INFORMATION & RESOURCES

HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER

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

BELFAIR VISITOR CENTER

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

UNION VISITOR INFORMATION

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

SHELTON CHAMBER

VISITOR CENTER

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

Open 8 AM - 5 PM | Monday through Friday

MASON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

427 W. Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA

11 AM - 4 PM | Tuesday through Saturday

TAKE TO THE TRAILS

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

FJORD WELCOME CENTER

24341 N US Hwy 101, Hoodsport, WA

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

RIDE FREE IN MASON COUNTY

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

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK nps.gov

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!

Olympia & Hood Canal

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.

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.

3. Vincent Creek Falls (ROAD ACCESS – EASY)

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

8. Rocky Brook Falls (QUARTER MILE – EASY)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quilcene | US 101 at Falls View Campground. Trail in picnic area

Olympic National Forest, pass required, kid/dog friendly, ADA Trail is ADA accessible to a falls cascading 100’. By late summer it trickles—but during the rainy season the falls put on a little show.

Lake Crescent & Elwha River

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

Salt Creek County Park | SR 112 , 7.2 miles, R. @ Camp Hayden Rd

Clallam County Parks and WA DNR, no pass, dog-friendly

Small but location in remote cliff-enclosed sea cove is stunning.

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

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.

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

Elwha River Valley | US 10, milepost 240, Olympic Hot Springs Rd, 4.0 miles, left onto dirt Whiskey Bend Rd, 4.2 miles to trail head Olympic National Park, pass required, dogs prohibited

After a steep descent to river walk along the gravel bank of Wolf Creek to a fanning 25’ falls. Step back to see another tier above it.

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.

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

Elwha Valley | Milepost 240, Olympic Hot Springs Rd, 10 miles

Olympic National Park, pass required, dogs prohibited

A series of cascades in valley with luxuriant old-growth forest. The hike is an all-day event but is remoter than nearby popular sites.

Thank you.

Waterfall project made possible with Mason County Lodging Tax funding.

explorehoodcanal.com

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.

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

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

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

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

(including map coordinates)

®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

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

Located at the confluence of the South and West Forks of Porter Creek. Here one branch cuts through a cleft while the other plunges over a ledge into a big punchbowl.

Olympic National Park QUILCENE

SHELTON

OLYMPIA

BELFAIR HOODSPORT TACOMA

SEATTLE

PORT TOWNSEND

Denim & Diamonds

306146

WA

The Karen Hilburn Cancer Fund will be hosting their “Denim & Diamonds Dinner Auction” on Sunday, April 14, 2024, at 4:00 pm at Alderbrook Resort.

This annual event includes dinner, complimentary beer and wine, a live and silent auction and lots of fun! Tickets are only $75 pp and will go on sale in March. This year marks the Fund’s 20th Anniversary!

Call 360-462-FUND, or email KHCF@hcc.net if

you’re interested in sponsoring or donating an auction item. All proceeds benefit the Karen Hilburn Cancer Fund, which offers financial support to uninsured, or underinsured, women of Mason County with testing and their cancer related expenses.

The Tour de Mason Lake

The “Tour de Mason Lake” will take place on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at 9:00 am. This popular bicycle ride for charity benefits the Karen Hilburn Cancer Fund of Mason County. The ride takes place annually on the second Saturday in June.

For more information visit active.com or visit karenhilburncancerfund.org. Be sure to “like” the Karen Hilburn Cancer Fund Facebook page for updates. All proceeds benefit the Karen Hilburn Cancer Fund, which offers financial support to uninsured, or underinsured, women of Mason County cancer related expenses. 360-301-6310

The riders begin and end at El Puerto de Angeles in Shelton and can choose from a 20, 30 or 44-mile ride. The course travels past Lake Limerick to Mason Lake with beautiful scenery and rolling hills. This event is family-friendly and electric bikes are welcome. Registration is $40 on active.com (search for Tour de Mason Lake) or $50 for day-of participation.

Mason County remembers Chef Xinh Dwelley

Xinh Dwelley a nationally recognized chef, passed away this winter after a courageous eight year battle with cancer. Known for managing her regionally recognized restaurant , Xinh's Clam and Oyster House, publishing three cookbooks and appearing on countless radio and TV shows, her knowledge and creativity are just the tip of her impact on the Northwest seafood scene.

For two and half decades Xinh Dwelley ran a restaurant in Shelton, creating a fusion of Northwest and Asian flavors with an amazing intuition of her ingredients, including the elusive and derided geoduck. The restaurant was visited by some of America’s most famous chefs and TV personalities including Anthony Bourdain, Andrew Zimmerman, Julia Child, and even Mike Rowe from Dirty Jobs. Her dishes are famous on the political circuit and more than a few times Xinh has been the guest chef at the Governor’s mansion and celebrity fundraisers.

Xinh understood food at a young age. By her 15th birthday in Vietnam, she was famous for her fried chicken

and American burgers which she cooked for the officers at a military base near her village. “They loved my cooking.” She’s not bragging, just stating a fact.

Xinh married an American soldier and moved to Olympia with their infant son. She quickly proved that she was not afraid of challenges. Picking blueberries, mushrooms, clams, shucking oysters and weekends, selling her famed egg rolls at farmers’ markets. All in a day's work for Xinh.

She had an amazing speed and accuracy at shucking oysters from the beginning and it was only second to her cooking. After many delicious meals

prepared at the Taylor Shellfish plant, her employers also realized she was a talented chef. This led to the advent of Xinh’s Clam & Oyster House.

It was a success. It wasn’t just local families dining in her restaurant. Over the decades her fame grew beyond the town and even the state. Her restaurant walls were plastered with ribbons and plaques of her many honors and photos of her with famous people.In all the images she wears her signature apron, hair pulled back in a no fuss bun, and her face ageless with its engaging smile.

Xinh’s battle with cancer eventually forced her to close her restaurant in 2017, much to

the dismay of many thousands of loyal customers – each of whom she remembered by their favorite dish. Each meal with Xinh was like a chapter in her life. Spicy, sweet, wholesome and although you are full – you craved more.

After retirement, Xinh didn't slow down much. She hosted fundraising dinners at local events like Bluegrass from the Forest and Christmastown. In 2019 Xinh received the Flame Award from Mason General hospital for her contributions.

Also in 2019 Xinh’s first volume of recipes, Pacific Coastal Flavors, was published. Launched during OysterFest, it was a reunion of sorts. Xinh signed over 800 books during the festival.

PHOTO: AMY COOPER

The sales from the event in which Xinh Dwelley had gained five oyster shucking titles years ago – covered the cost of producing the cookbook and allowed Xinh to give even more to her community.

In 2021 Xinh fought a second battle with cancer. Filling her mind with creating the perfect menu was medicine to keep motivated as she created yet another gift for her adoring and hungry fans – Volume 2, Xinh’s Flavors With Friends.

Released in December 2021, this volume included recipes that reached beyond her customary palate with ethinc flavors from around the globe as well as vegetarian adaptions.

In 2022 Xinh was asked to be honorary Grand Old Oyster of OysterFest. Here she also hosted a Geoduck chowder fundraiser for PUD3's Project Share and for the last year she has shared her welcoming spirit and recipes at Fjord Oyster Bank, gaining yet more acclaim on King 5's Evening Magazine and being inducted into the a Hall of Fame by Washington State Chefs Association in 2023.

On her 72nd birthday last September, Xinh launched the reprint of Pacific Coastal Flavors including 24 new recipes in the revised volume.

Xinh's books can be purchased at cookwithxinh.com or locally at Cameo Boutique in Union and ISH PNW and Verle's Sporting Goods in Shelton as well as at Taylor Shellfish in Kamilche. When the Fjord Oyster Bank reopens in Hoodsport (late March) her books as well as her menu items will be available there.

Since December 2022 Xinh had been sharing restaurant recipes with the family-run restaurant, The Fjord Oyster Bank in Hoodsport. Each of her recipes were carefully practiced and recorded under her watchful guidance and the staff at the café look forward to honoring Xinh's memory with their revival.

Xinh's accomplishments are immense and astounding, but despite her countless adventures, awards and accolades, Xinh's most cherished joys were her family and the deep friendships she made in her life journey.

For the many friends that have been touched by Xinh's warmth, wisdom, and unconditional generosity, her immortal legacy will stay bright in our memories.

PHOTO: AMY COOPER

Chef Brian Marx – Cafe Holly Johnson - Server

Xinh's Italian Mussels in Red Sauce

4 lbs mussels (remove byssals)

2 cans (12 oz) tomato diced

1 can (12 oz) tomato sauce

1 Tbsp garlic, chopped

1/2 cup celery, chopped

1/2 cup green pepper, chopped

1/2 cup white onion, diced

2 tsp dry Italian herbs

1 tsp oregano

2 Tbsp olive oil

1 Tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp cayenne pepper flake

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1 cup Parmesan cheese

Heat oil in large sauce pan on medium heat. Add garlic, celery, green pepper, and onions. Cook for about 5 minutes (until onions are soft), stirring frequently. Add in tomato sauces. Add brown sugar, oregano, cayenne, and Italian herbs. Simmer on low heat 45 minutes to one hour.

Turn heat to high, add mussels, tossing well, when mussels start to open, replace lid and let them cook in steam. When mussels have opened, about 5 minutes, transfer to serving bowl, top with Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve with angel hair pasta.

Reprinted with permission & Xinh's blessings. cookwithxinh.com

In its fourth year, the Bon Jon Pass Out event on June 15, will once again feature short, medium, and long courses on the gravel roads of Olympic National Forest, with the start and finish lines at Worthington Park.

Volunteers Prepare Worthington Park for Another Record-Breaking Year

Story, Brian Cullin

Last year witnessed an unprecedented influx of visitors to Worthington Park, attending a wide range of events from weddings to half marathons. Volunteers fanned out all over Worthington Park over the winter to plan and prepare for another record-breaking year at this oneof-a-kind event center at the foot of the Olympics.

Over the holidays a team of volunteers gathered on a blustery morning in November to snip cedar boughs and create beautiful red bows to assemble garlands that adorned the new lamp posts that align the sidewalk of the park, and draped the railings of the restored mansion. Volunteers also decorated the mansion interior with poinsettias, garlands and a magnificent tree that graced the front windows of the parlor.

On Christmas Eve, the Park hosted an open house in the historic Hamilton-Worthington House. This was the first opportunity for the community and the public to share in the festive holiday spirit at Worthington Park –and tour the now completely restored Victorian residence. Visitors sipped on hot chocolate and sampled homemade cookies, while others enjoyed personal tours of the mansion interior.

Volunteers also exhibited in wedding expos across the region over the winter, generating tours and increased 2024 bookings at Worthington Park – nearly double the number for 2023! A new website presence for weddings was unveiled attracting a great deal of interest in the Park as a wedding location.

Extensive landscaping preparations were made over the winter months, lead by the installation of an in-ground irrigation system. This investment will ensure Worthington Park’s beautiful acreage remains verdant and colorful throughout the year.

A multi-year landscape plan was developed that included foundation plants and annual flowers plan.

Quilcene Historical Museum was also significantly upgraded with refreshed exhibits, expanded archives, exterior restoration, and a major redesign of its website. The goal of the website redesign was to provide content to both educate viewers and to entice them to visit and get involved. Volunteers are diligently cataloging the entire museum collection into Past Perfect, a professional museum database.

The Park’s 2024 schedule of public events is once again filled with popular attractions – including the Up, Up, Up Circus on July 17, the Tasting Gala on August 9, the Oyster Races Half Marathon on September 15, and the Fiber Festival on October 12.

Worthington Park is also the home base for some very exciting endurance bicycle racing. In its fourth year, the Bon Jon Pass Out event on June 15, will once again feature short, medium, and long courses on the gravel roads of Olympic National Forest, with the start and finish lines at Worthington Park.

“The park is a perfect backdrop for the finish line, with space for a beer garden, hot food, awards, and camaraderie.” said Lorrie Mittmann, Race Director. “It’s sure to be our biggest year ever, with support from our series sponsor Eleven Winery. And we have a new sponsor this year, Rene Herse Cycles, who has a wide reach in the cycling world and will help with marketing, including getting a big name national rider to join the race.”

There is both a racing division and a non-competitive ride, so there are options for different levels of rider. Regardless of speed, all get to enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and support of volunteers, as well as the relaxed vibe of the after-park in the surroundings of Worthington Park.

Visitation at Worthington Park in 2023 increased dramatically – in visits to the mansion and museum, and in attendance across all events. Volunteers have spent the entire winter preparing for a 2024 season that promises a continuation of this trend.

For more information on what is happening at Worthington Park: www. worthingtonparkquilcene.org.