Mason Health is proud to announce our first winner of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses — Traci Wiley, RN, from the Birth Center.
The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses is part of the national DAISY Foundation’s mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate care that nurses provide patients and families every day.
Scan Here to nominate a nurse for The DAISY Award
Mason Health will recognize an extraordinary nurse every quarter. Congratulations to our Quarter 1 2024 nominees!
This quarter’s nominees included: Becky Bingham, RN, Resource Nurse; Leah Coleman, RN, PACU; Rosalyn Gri in, RN, MSP; Joss Meagley, RN, ED; Bronwyn Kennedy, RN, Wound Care; Kim Nicewonger, RN, Walk-In Clinic; Taylor Rebh, RN, Emergency Department; Michele Rose, RN, Wound Care; Patrick Santos, RN, ED and Marica Thomas, RN, Birth Center.
Nurses may be nominated by patients, families, and colleagues.
I am a procrastinator. It is the one thing I truly excel at. When I started this issue on Thursday I was safely ensconced in summer fun and a 64-page walk in the park. Sunday is here, hours before the deadline and the story has completely changed.
Seven years I've been procrastinating each issue of the Fjord and, like always, I never know until days before what magical stories will be handed our way and where the story will go. Check out the amazing Hood Canal photos of wolf eels on page 28. I am thrilled to report that Thom has agreed to be a regular contributor to the Fjord.
Did you see how many amazing events we have scheduled for the summer months?
Starting with the wonderful down-home community celebration Matlock Old Timer Fair in early May and all the way through FjordFest, to Fjordin Crossin, Forest Festival and Bluegrass From the Forest – wow, a collection of "f" festivals!
But all celebrating aside, there's serious stuff to talk about as well. I try to keep the Fjord light and happy and full of interesting information to delight locals and our loyal readers from afar, yet every once in a while it's necessary to take a hard line.
Last Wednesday I was griping about how no one gets involved in local events. How we lose things in our community and how things have changed just in the short two decades we have lived here. My 18-year-old daughter looked at me and said, "what are you going to do?"
Her point was that it is my responsibility, and everyone's responsibility, to be the change. Moaning about what was doesn't help. If change is for the good, embrace it. If it's something you disagree with, fight for it. At the very least inform others. And, as she pointed out, "you have a magazine and you and Jeff have the radio station. Tell people, let them make their own decisions."
Our family tried hard to save the Mason County Fairgrounds in 2010-2012. Eventually we gave up that fight and the fairgrounds became history. Wednesday's griping was a post on social media about "what happened to the fairgrounds?" Ha! If only people knew.
Last week amidst the negative comments about the Santa Mural being "left up too long," "he's creepy," "it's not Christmas anymore," "I think Paul has weird eyes," there was a weak moment. Burnt out on public sentiment, Paul Bunyan stayed on the trailer. The poles to hold the mural at Outlook Park are empty—no one has even noticed.
So, here you go. Enjoy the festivals and the musical events. Hike to gorgeous places and enjoy the wonders of the fjord. This is a magical place.
But remember, this is here because someone somewhere has fought to make it happen. Behind every festival are volunteers who care. Each trail is possible because the first person forged a path through the dense forest. Public spaces exist because someone preserved them.
Respect it. Honor it. Fight for it.
In July when they start demolishing the Post Office Park and cutting down the maples and our town Christmas tree to pave it over for a parking lot, don't look surprised. In the summer when there are no beautiful hanging baskets in the streets, don't go on social media to complain. And if there are flowers and the trees are still standing, be thankful someone cares.
ISSUE 29 | VOLUME 8
EVENTS - 6
MASON COUNTY FOREST FESTIVAL TURNS 80 - 14
MOUNT TOWNSEND HIKE
Romano Feature - 17
The Perils of not being involved - 23 FJORDIN CROSSIN - 29
MR. PERSONALITY
Wolf Eels of Hood Canal - 28
BLUEGRASS FROM THE FOREST Jul 12-14, national bands - 35
Allyn Days & Geoduck Festival – 38 WATER & ARTS FESTIVAL Grapeview invites 48+ artists- 39 MOTORAMA @ THE RIDGE- 41 OurCU on Quaid's Viewpoint - 43
Search & Rescue - 56
SONGWRITERS- 59 OPERATION SONG - 62
TRANSFORMING LIBRARIES TRL talks new initiatives - 67
Harmony Hill Closes Retreat - 68 HOODSTOCK - 74
SHELLFISH FEATURE- 76 WATERFALLS FEATURE - 78
Tracing the Fjord is produced by IMAGE IN ACTION DESIGN
rachel@nwevent.org • (360) 427-5599 PO Box 622, Shelton, WA 98584 © 2024 No reprint without permission. Cover Image: Summer at Hope Island
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
Trivia at High Steel Brew
Tuesday, Last of each month, 6-8 PM
5/28, 6/25, 7/30, 8/27 | 233 S 1st St, Shelton
Trivia Night at Alderbrook Resort & Spa Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8 PM, Union
Dart and Cribbage at Bent Bine Brew Co.
Wednesdays, 5 PM Dart and cribbage tournaments with cash prizes. 23297 HWY 3, Belfair
Hood Canalé (Union)
Wednesdays, Open Mic, 6-9 PM
Thursdays & Saturdays, Live Music 6-9 PM
Sunday Music & brunch beginning Father’s Day
Open Mic at Music at Bent Bine Brew Co.
Thursdays, 5 PM Open mic session hosted by local musician Anthony Duran Estrada and Double H, 23297 HWY 3, Belfair
Timber & Tides Run/Walk Club
Thursdays, 5:45 PM- 7 PM
High Steel, 233 S 1st St, Shelton
Shelton Family YMCA FREE Teen Night
Fridays, 5 PM - 8 PM
3101 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton
Trivia Night at Bent Bine Brew Co.
Fridays , 7 PM. FREE, a variety of trivia categories from current events, movies, music and pictures. 23297 HWY 3, Belfair
North Mason Eagles Karaoke
Fridays, 7 PM
80 NE Alder Creek Lane, Belfair
Mason County Forest Festival
May 30 — June 2, Shelton
Paul Bunyan Parade, June 1
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
Craft Club at Marmo Caffè & Gallery
Sundays, 11-2 PM | 217 W Cota St, Shelton
Brinnon's Outdoor Market
Sundays, May 26 - September 1, 10 - 4 PM
22 Sylopash Lane, Brinnon (next to Brinnon Store) If you'd like to be a vendor call (360) 301-9333.
Forest Festival History Exhibit
Mason County Historical Museum
427 West Railroad Ave, Shelton Closed Sunday & Monday
Chill & Grill at Mike's Beach Resort
Saturdays, July & August, 6-9PM
38470 N US Highway 101, Lilliwaup
Everyone is welcome, whether you're staying overnight or part of the local community.
Tours of Historic McReavy House
Saturdays & Sundays,1 - 4 PM, May 25 – Sept 1 10 E 2nd Street, Union
Local Live Music at Bent Bine Brew Co.
Saturdays, 5PM | 23297 HWY 3, Belfair
Tall Timbers Concert Series: Deb Seymour
Saturday, April 27, 3 PM
St Germains Church
600 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport
Spring Arts Walk
Friday & Saturday, April 26- 27
Downtown Olympia | artswalkoly.com
Hairball at Little Creek Casino
Saturday, April 27
91 SR-108, Shelton, WA littlecreek.com
Silent Movie: Kings of Silent Comedy
Sunday, April 28
512 Washington St SE, Olympia WA
Experience silent films the way they were meant to be seen and heard, accompanied by a 1924 Wurlitzer Organ! Featuring Charlie Chaplin’s The Pilgrim and Harold Lloyd’s Why Worry?
Spring Swap Meet
April 26-28
11 E Johns Creek Drive, Shelton, WA
Annual Spring Swap Meet featuring farm machinery, antiques, collectibles, household, hand made and more! Food and free admission.
Magic & Madness with Joe Black
April 27, 5:30- 9 PM
200 E Old Ranch Rd, Allyn
Allyn Community Association Spring Fundraiser, all ages, adults $49, kids $18.
Walla Walla Wine Dinner at Hood Canalé
Wednesday, May 1, 6 -8 PM
6871 E state Route 106, Union
Enjoy food and wines from the famous Walla Walla region. Reserve,$45, hoodcanale.com
Allyn Community Association Potluck & Community Meeting
Thursday, May 2, 6 PM
200 E Old Ranch Rd, Allyn
Dan Griffey and Travis Couture, join us to share insights from the recent legislative session. Open to all.
Sequim Irrigation Festival
May 3-11 | Sequim
Cinco De Mayo Celebration
May 3 - 5 (evenings)
318 W Railroad Ave, Shelton Evening live music, $10 Cover
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.
Members of the NWMLS, and the Jefferson County Association of Realtors ~Notary services available~
Cinco de Mayo Dinner
Friday, May 3
Pleasant Harbor Marina, Brinnon Reservation Only, (360) 796-7002 www.crowsnestbistroandcafe.com
Shelton High FFA Plant Sale
Saturday May 4
3737 Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton
Shelton Farmers Market Opening Day
Saturday, May 4, 10 AM - 3 PM 425 Cota Street, Shelton
Matlock Old Timers Fair
Saturday, May 4-5
2987 Matlock-Brady Rd, Elma Celebrate timber heritage with draft horses, early day machines and motors, antiques kids activities, crafts, historical events, food, vendors, giant slide, prizes, and live music.
YSS Expo & Canal Clean Up
Saturday, May 4
24060 N US Hwy 101, Hoodsport Meet-and-greet with Crazy 8's and Fury hydroplanes; door prizes; Scuba reps, non-divers encouraged to enter into the Star Wars costume contest.
Martha Reed Chili Cook Off Saturday, May 4, 1 PM Bob's, 320 S 1st St, Shelton
The Lady Drinks Whiskey
Saturday, May 4, 5 PM Alderbrook Golf Club
Leah Justine @ Little Creek
Saturday, May 4, 10 PM 90 W SR 108, Kamilche
Lupita Infante & Luis Coronel
Friday, May 10, 8 PM Little Creek, 91 SR-108, Shelton A performance blending Mexican mariachi, norteño, and regional Mexican beats.
Plant Clinic: Ask a Master Gardener!
Saturday, May 11, 1-3 PM 620 Cedar Ave, Port Hadlock
Find the right plant for your environment;investigate unknown pathogen destroying your plant. bridget.gregg@wsu.edu
Habitat EJC Pride Build Event
Saturday, May 11, 9 - 3:30 PM
Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County strengthens our community’s commitment to inclusivity to support Habitat’s mission of building homes, communities, and hope. habitatejc.org
Binefest 7 at Bent Bine
Saturday, May 11, 1 PM
23297 hwy 3 in Belfair Wa. Beer, food, games and live music highlight this annual celebration.
United Way Spring Dessert Auction
Friday, May 10, 12-2 PM
525 Cota Street, Shelton
Support the United Way and go home with some tasty treats!
Shelton Spring Clean UP
Saturday, May 11, 9 - 3 PM
707 Cascade Ave, Shelton Bring household's garbage for free disposal.
Olympia Wooden Boat Fair
May 11-12, 11 - 6 PM, 11-5 PM
Downtown Olympia
Live music, over 60 arts vendors, international food alley and of course wooden boats lining the docks for everyone to enjoy.
Pancake Breakfast
Sunday, May 12, 9:30-12 PM
2970 SE Arcadia, Shelton
Celebrate Mother’s Day & support South Mason Fire & Rescue Firefighter Association.
EVERY
Scan
Mothers Day Brunch
May 15
Pleasant Harbor Marina, Brinnon Reservation Only, (360) 796-7002 www.crowsnestbistroandcafe.com
Rhododendron Festival
May 15-19, Port Townsend
Chamber Luncheon: Construction
Thursday, May 16, 11:30 AM
100 Public Works Dr, Shelton masonchamber.com
Fjordin Beer Release Party
Friday, May 17, 5:30 - 8 PM
Potlatch Brewery, 24180 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport
A limited release, small batch IPA, for Fjordin. Scandinavian sandwiches and other treats Registration for Paddle the Canal and Fjordin t-shirts, bandanas, stickers and Fjordin cups.
Dogger Live!
Friday, May 17, 8 – 10 PM
Lucky Dog Casino,19330 N US-101, Skokomish Country, classic rock, 90’s covers and more.
Sails and Tails
Saturday, May 18, 5:30 PM
330E County Club, Union Annual gala and auction Humane Society
Opening Day at Vance Creek Railriders
Saturday, May 18
421 W Hanks Lake Rd, Shelton Pedal historic Simpson railway. vcrailriders.com
CHOPPED Challenge Round 3
Saturday, May 18, 5:30 PM
19380 N US Hwy 101, Shelton
Turning Pointe presents a LIVE STREAM at Lucky Dog Casino, local chefs showcase skills. Tickets $50/person. turningpointe.org
Lake Cushman Art & Craft Fair
Saturday, May 18
210 N Fairway Dr W, Hoodsport Local vendors and artists and sales in the Golf Clubhouse.
WSU Home & Garden Show
Saturday, & Sunday, May 18 – 19
Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds 32 Elma McCleary Rd, Elma
Capital City Marathon
May 18 – 19
615 Washington St SE, Olympia capitalcitymarathon.org
WSU Master Gardeners Hoodsport
Soils/Composting/Fertilizing
May 22, 10 AM – 12 PM
Hoodsport Timberland Library, Hoodsport
3rd Forks Sasquatch Days
May 24 – 26
The Lady Drinks Whiskey
Friday, May 24, 6 PM
Union Square Deli, 310 E Dalby Rd, Union
Karaoke At The Cantina
Saturday, May 25
318 W Railroad Ave, Shelton
Fjord Fest
May 25 – 26, 10 AM – 6 PM
251 Hjelvicks Rd, Brinnon
Food, music and beer garden Admission
$10;Kids under 12 FREE Military free (with ID). fjordfest.com
Memorial Day Celebration at Mike's Beach Resort
Saturday, May 25, 6 – 9 PM
38470 N US Hwy 101, Lilliwaup
Enjoy live music by Hood Canal's Chris Eakes, delicious bites and ice-cold brews!
Mason County Forest Festival
May 30 – June 2, Shelton
Carnival open Thursday, Friday Smokey's Birthday Party, 6 -9PM; Saturday Pancake Breakfast, Kiddie Parade, Grand Parade at 10:30 AM followed by vendors and logging show at Loop Field, live music at OurCU (4:30 PM) ; at 10 PM fireworks; Car Show Sunday. masoncountyforestfestival.com
Habitat Women Build
May 30 - June 1, 9 – 3:30 PM
Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County celebrates the importance of women and their crucial contribution. Put Habitat’s mission of empowering communities and changing lives for the better into action! Details: habitatejc.org
The Lady Drinks Whiskey
Friday, May 31, 7 PM
Lake Nahwatzel Resort
12900 W Shelton Matlock Rd
Shelton Days Vendor Fair
Saturday, June 1, 11 – 4 PM
Kneelnd Park, Shelton
Over 75 Vendors – food, music,and raffles. Free and family friendly.
Habitat EJC Summer Art Sale
Thursday, June 6 – 8, 10 – 5 PM
2001 W. Sims Way, Port Townsend
Explore unique paintings, prints, photographs, collectibles, wood carvings, and antique books as well as restored antiques, dining sets, sofas, dishes and more. Call 360-385-9653 or email store@habitatejc. org to schedule donation pick-up.
Fjordin Pizza Release Party
Friday, June 7, 5:30 – 8 PM Hood Canalé, 6871 WA-106, Union
The Lady Drinks Whiskey @ Lucky Dog
Friday, June 7, 8 PM
19380 N US Highway 101, Skokomish
Did you know Smokey & Forest Festival are sharing an anniversary this year? We can't wait to celebrate!
FRIDAY, MAY 31, 6-9 PM | 425 COTA ST, SHELTON
PICTURES WITH SMOKEY: Meet and greet with our forest mascot!
AXE THROWING: Test your aim and skill in this unique activity.
ROYALTY: Meet the Festival's Royalty and join in the festivities.
NEW FLOAT REVEAL: Get a first look at the Festival's new float!
FOOD TRUCKS: Enjoy a variety of delicious food from local vendors.
KIDS ACTIVITIES: Fun games, crafts, and entertainment!
MUSIC: Hosted by KMAS, enjoy music and prizes with Jeff Slakey!
It promises to be an evening filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments for the whole family!
WSU Plant Clinic: Ask a Master Gardener!
Saturday, June 8, 1 – 3 PM
620 Cedar Ave, Port Hadlock
Volunteers provide advice on horticulture topics. Find the right plant for your environment, learn about composting or insect infestations
bridget.gregg@wsu.edu
Tour De Mason Lake 2024
Saturday, June 8, 8 – 4 PM
2503 Olympic Hwy N, Shelton
Annual fundraiser bike race for Karen Hillburn Cancer Fund. Register letsdothis.com
OurCU Free Community Shred Event
June 8, 11 – 2 PM
526 W Cedar St, Shelton
Safely destroy documents containing personal information. Bring a donation of non-perishable food and OurCU will deliver food banks!
Shelton High School Graduation
Saturday, June 8
Shelton High School - Football Field 3737 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton
Free Entrance Day into State Parks
Saturday, June 8 | All State Parks
Discover Pass is not required to visit state parks.
Dogger Live!
Saturday, June 8, 8 -11 PM
Cabin Tavern, 1749 Olympic Hwy S, Shelton Country, classic rock, 90’s covers and more.
Trio Hava Classical Concert
June 13-15
7360 Center Road, Quilcene concertsinthebarn.org
Gravel Unravel - Bon Jon Pass Out
June 15 | 151 W Columbia St, Quilcene
1st Annual Hood Canal Salmon Run!
Saturday, June 15
Salmon Center , 600 NE Roessel Rd, Belfair 5k run fundraiser supports HCSEG's youth K-12 education programs teaching kids about Hood Canal ecosystemsand sustainability. Learn more, sign-up, and get your race day t-shirt at: pnwsalmoncenter.org/hood-canal-salmon-run
Sequim Lavender Weekend
July 19- 21 | Sequim
Free Day at State Parks
June 19 | All State Parks
Discover Pass is not required to visit state parks.
Teen Night At Youth Connection
Friday, June 21 | 123 S 2nd St, Shelton Fun, games, music, dancing, and treats.
Fulton Street Chamber Players
June 22-23, 2 PM
7360 Center Road, Quilcene concertsinthebarn.org
Kids Movie Night
June, 21, 6 PM
Pleasant Harbor Marina, Brinnon www.crowsnestbistroandcafe.com
Comedy of Mike Epps
Saturday, June 22, 8 PM
Little Creek, 91 SR-108, Shelton littlecreek.com
Fjordin Crossin & Paddle the Canal
Saturday, June 22, 11-3 PM
Port of Hoodsport, Hoodsport Celebrate Nordic traditions with a Hood Canal vibe. Food, drink, vendors, celebration and a paddle open to all ages. Event free, paddle registration at fjordincrossin.com
Pollinator Knowledge Fun Fest
Saturday, June 22, 12-5 PM 969 Old Pacific Hwy SE, Olympia endors, food and drink, wine & mead tasting, as well as music. WA State Beekeepers Association. FREE
WSU Gardeners Hoodsport
Vegetables/Small Fruits
June 26, 10 AM - 12 PM
Hoodsport Timberland Library
Live Music in the Stump Bar
Friday, June 28
Hama Hama Saloon, Lilliwaup Hamahamaoyster.com for details
Carpe Diem String Quartet
Saturday, June 29, 2 PM 7360 Center Road, Quilcene concertsinthebarn.org
Live Music on the Patio
Saturday, June 29, 5 – 7 PM
Pleasant Harbor Marina, Brinnon www.crowsnestbistroandcafe.com
28th Annual Spell-E-Bration
Saturday Jun 29, 2024, 4 – 8 PM
The Pavilion at Sentry Park 190 W Sentry Dr. Shelton soundlearning.co
MotoAmerica at the Ridge Motorsports
June 28 - June 30
1060 W Eells Hills Road, Shelton MotoAmerica Superbikes at Ridge Motorsports Five classes of road racing, Food vendors, surprise entertainment, camping and VIP packages. motoamerica.com/ridge
Cruisin' thru Time Car Show
Sunday, June 30, 10 AM - 3 PM Railroad Ave, Shelton
Join the Mason County Historical Society & the Downtown Merchants
Teen Night At Shelton YMCA
Friday, July 5, 5 – 8 PM
3101 N Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton Games, music, dancing, and treats.
Tahuya Day!
Saturday, July 6, 10 AM – 3 PM
Downtown Tahuya
Parade starts at 1PM. North Shore is closed at Kay’s Corner for the parade, so plan accordingly. Food, vendors and Saint Nicholas Haggle Sale!
65th Annual Bear Festival
July 12 – 14
McCleary Downtown
Bluegrass from the Forest
July 12 – July 14
2102 E Johns Prairie Rd, Shelton Festival geared towards both families and individuals of all ages. The music ranges from traditional bluegrass to the more progressive styles. Great level camping on grass, Chicks Kids workshop, instrument and vocal workshops plus many concerts and other events during the weekend. Save the date for a very affordable weekend of music and fun! bluegrasfromtheforest.com
Quality Care Open Golf Tournament
Friday, July 12, 8 – 5 PM
200 E Old Ranch Rd, Allyn MGHF Tournament tees off to raise funds for health care in Mason County! Details visit masongeneral.com
Live Music on the Patio
Saturday, July 14, 5 – 7 PM
Pleasant Harbor Marina, Brinnon www.crowsnestbistroandcafe.com
“Girls Just Wanna Have Rum”
Wednesday, July 17, 6 PM
Alderbrook Golf and Yacht Club
The “Peace Love & Union Saltwater Songwriters Festival kicks off with sampling of great female songwriters with the backdrop of one of the NW’s most picturesque vistas. Hosted by Grand Ol Opera alumnus Coley McCabe this all women singer-songwriter showcase has free admission.
Peace, Love & Union Saltwater
Songwriter Festival
July 17 – 21 | 6790 Washington 106, Union peaceloveunion.net
Expo and Bite of Mason County Street Fair
Friday, July 19, 11:30 AM – 6 PM
Downtown Shelton
Presented by the Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce, this chance to sample local restaurants, meet local businesses.
Kids Movie Night
Friday, July 19, 6 PM
Pleasant Harbor Marina, Brinnon www.crowsnestbistroandcafe.com
Allyn Days & Geoduck Festival
July 19-21, Allyn WA
Grapeview Water & Art Festival
Saturday, July 27, 10 AM – 4PM Fair Harbor Marina, Grapeview FREE, 48 NW artists & live music, children's crafts, food & delicious cobbler!
WSU Master Gardeners Hoodsport
July 24, 10 AM - 12 PM
Hoodsport Timberland Library, Hoodsport
Live Music on the Patio
Saturday, July 24, 5 - 7 PM
Pleasant Harbor Marina, Brinnon www.crowsnestbistroandcafe.com
Up, Up, UP Circus (FREE)
Saturday, July 27
151 E. Columbia Street, Quilcene
Grays Harbor County Fair
July 31-August 2
Lake Kokanee Clean Up
Saturday, August 3 | YSS Dive hosts underwater clean up and BBQ. yssdive.com
Kaimerata Concerts
August 3-4, 2 PM
7360 Center Road, Quilcene concertsinthebarn.org
MGHF Barrels & Brews
Saturday, Aug. 3, 2- 7 PM
Kneeland Park, Shelton
Live music and a chance to taste pours from local wineries and breweries. Tickets at the door, $35. masongeneral.com
3rd Street Flea Market & Outdoor Cafe
Saturday, Aug 3, 9-3 PM
40+vendors (Yard sale,vintage,crafters)
Kayo radio onsite with Kane Brown & Chris Young concert and Rainier Baseball tickets.
15th Beast of Big Creek Trail Race
Mon, Aug 5, 12 PM, Mt. Ellinor, Hoodsport
The only certified skyrace course in the United States is in Hoodsport, WA. For info on the event: rockcandyrunning.com/beast
Scuba Camp
August 5 - 9, YSS Dive hosts scuba camp. yssdive.com
Quilcene Museum Annual Tasting Gala
Friday, August 9, 5 - 8 PM
151 E. Columbia Street, Quilcene The perfect place to moor your boat.
Jefferson County Fair
August 9- 11 | Port Townsend
2nd Annual 5k Resilience Run/Walk
Saturday, August 10, 8 AM
3600 Shelton Springs Rd, Shelton Honor survivors and bring awareness to domestic and sexual violence. Family fun activities after the run.
MGHF Bikers for Babies
August 10, 9 - 4 PM
Warrior Angel Riders scenic ride to raise funds for Birth Center at Mason General.
Live Music on the Patio
Saturday, August 10, 5 - 7 PM
Pleasant Harbor Marina, Brinnon www.crowsnestbistroandcafe.com
Clallam County Fair
August 15 -18 | Port Angeles
Kids Movie Night
Friday, August 16, 6 PM
Pleasant Harbor Marina, Brinnon www.crowsnestbistroandcafe.com
Hoodstock
August 16-18 | Union Immersive three day floating and land based music festival. hoodstock.org
8th Annual Yesteryear Car Show
Saturday August 17, 7 AM - 4 PM Lucky Dog Casino, 19330 N US HWY 101 Free Admission,All proceeds to charities.
Fire District 17 Summer Market
Saturday, August 24, 9 - 3 PM Vendors, Breakfast, lunch, T-shirt sales, bake sale, raffles, garage sale, ice cream & more.
WSU Master Gardeners Hoodsport Garden Clean up
August 28, 10 AM - 12 PM Hoodsport Timberland Library, Hoodsport
Quilcene Oyster Races
Saturday, September 15
151 E. Columbia Street, Quilcene ½ Marathon, 10K, 5K & Kids Sprint
Quilcene Fair & Parade
Saturday, September 21, 10 -3 PM 294715 US-101, Quilcene
free family-friendly
and
A parade, a pageant, and Paul Bunyan. Mason County in 1945 (yes, include that year, it equals 80!) had it's own ideas about raising awareness about fire prevention. To help combat the destructive wildfires — while also promoting the importance of forests — Mason County hosted the first annual forest festival in the spring of 1945.
The history of Shelton is closely tied with logging operations in the area. In 1853, Michael T. Simmons built the first sawmill in Mason County on Mill Creek just south of Shelton. Around this same time, David Shelton staked a claim on a nearby inlet off Puget Sound. Sol G. Simpson came to the area and founded the Simpson Logging Company in the 1890s. The Simpson Company eventually expanded throughout the country.
The first Mason County Forest Festival showcased the value of timber, while demonstrating the importance of safeguarding the forests against fires.
The ninth Forest Festival celebrated the 100th anniversary of logging operations in Mason County, and a monumental sign carved into a slice of Douglas fir was permanently dedicated in it’s location overlooking Shelton’s Oakland Bay. The sign can be still viewed today at Outlook Park.
People from all over Washington region flocked to Shelton to see “the dramatic Forest Pageant, the thrilling parade and the exciting contests of loggers falling, bucking, and tree topping." On the festival’s final day in 1953 30,000 people — six times the regular population of the town — crowded into Shelton to watch the Paul Bunyan Parade."
In 2024 Forest Festival will celebrate 80 years. With eight decades of courts and 1000s of volunteer hours this festival is a testament to our community's connection to its heritage.
This year's festivities include classic elements that make this festival special as well as a few extra events.
MAY 30 - JUNE 2 | GROVE & FIRST
Carnival: Fun rides, games, and delicious fair food for all ages to enjoy.
MAY 31, 6 - 9 PM | 425 COTA ST
Smokey Bear's 80th Birthday Party: Games, food, prizes, axe throwing, and music with KMAS 1030AM/103.3 FM
JUNE 1, 6:30 AM | RAILROAD AVE
Goldsborough Creek Run: Different start times and age levels, start Forest Festival Saturday with a little cardio.
JUNE 1, 7 - 11 AM | 122 W FRANKLIN ST
Pancake Breakfast: Support the fire department with pre-parade breakfast.
JUNE 1, 10:30 AM | RAILROAD AVE
Pet Parade & Paul Bunyan Grand Parade: A highlight of the festival, featuring colorful floats, marching bands, goups & businesses.
JUNE 1, 12 PM | LOOP FIELD
Vendors & Logging Show: Food, crafts, vendors and a tdisplay of forestry skills, including log rolling, and axe throwing.
JUNE 1, 6 PM | OURCU, OLYMPIC AVE
Rockin' The Forest: Live music to keep the energy high and entertain festival-goers.
JUNE 1, 10 PM
SHELTON UPTOWN
Fireworks: A spectacular evening display lighting up the sky.
JUNE 2, 9-3 PM | OLYMPIC HWY
Shelton Car Show Off: Supports the NJROTC cadets’ leadership program and activities. Registration 8 -11AM.
For more information about the 80th anniversay Forest Festival and how you can participate or become involved, visit masoncountyforestfestival.com.
Queen of the Forest 2024, Queen Lindsey extends a royal invitation to all the young princes and princesses, and their guests, to join her for a Royal tea in the gardens of Shelton's historic Colonial House, July14, 11 AM. Thanks goes out to Green Diamond for supporting this fun and enchanted gathering - including games, music and tea & food - on their historical grounds. Don't delay, this event always sells out!
Celebrating four years, the Royalty Tea Party at the Colonial House is a great opportunity for the Court to interact with local families.
Attendees generally dress up in all their finery (although its not required!) and enjoy a tea party with all the trippings of a storybook event including music, fine china (although mismatched) crustless sandwiches, and an assortment of cakes to finish off the party.
It's also the perfect opportunity for daughters, mothers, grandmothers and sisters to create lasting memories together in a setting filled with magic and heritage.
Each child will receive autograph cards from attending royalty, a tiara or crown, and other surprises. Tickets are $40 for adults and $25 for children aged 2-12. Purchase online at masoncountyforestfestival.com.
Rising more than 6200' at the northeast edge of the Olympic Mountains, Mount Townsend is a prominent landmark — and one of the region’s most hiked peaks. Its broad open summit affords sweeping views of some of the highest and craggiest peaks in the Olympics and a myriad of islands, straits, bays and peninsulas below. Stand atop this mountain on a clear day and watch ferries and vessels ply the shimmering waters below. Marvel at the Seattle skyline against a backdrop of snowy Cascade Mountains dominated by big, beautiful Mount Rainier. Ascend Townsend in the summer and be greeted by a brilliant array of wildflowers swaying in the alpine breezes.
TEXT & IMAGES | CRAIG ROMANO
Hike to views from Olympic mountains'
There are four ways you can hike to get to the summit of Mount Townsend and all of them offer great views and a good workout. The most popular route to the mountain is the Mount Townsend Trail from its upper trailhead. An out and back via this route clocks in at 8.2 miles with just shy of 3000 feet of elevation gain. But if you don’t mind a slightly longer hike with a little more elevation gain, consider starting from the Lower Trailhead.
Throughout much of this hiking season you just may have to start from the Lower Trailhead as the Forest Service works on the upper trailhead access road rendering it off limits while under construction.
The Lower Trailhead start will add two more miles to your total roundtrip and another 500 feet of elevation gain. But it’s worth it. The way traverses a beautiful grove of primeval forest and passes by tiny Sink Lake where Townsend Creek performs a disappearing act. After one mile of pleasant walking you’ll emerge at the upper trailhead. As you approach the trailhead what may be an unsightly situation. The lack of an outhouse at such a popular trailhead as led many to violate leave no trace principles with some bad bathroom etiquette. Perhaps a note to the Forest Service in support of a trailhead privy can help rectify this situation.
From the Upper Trailhead, follow a well-beaten path and steadily ascend. The trail weaves through a stately grove of Douglas-fir and western hemlock adorned with Pacific rhododendrons. Time your hike for late May through June and enjoy brilliant blossoms. After a half mile enter the Buckhorn Wilderness protecting more than 44,000 acres of spectacular terrain in the Olympic Mountain’s northeastern rain shadow. Continue climbing transitioning into more open forest and start catching views that will only improve in magnitude as you carry on.
Rising more than 6200' at the northeast edge of the Olympic Mountains, Mount Townsend is a prominent landmark — and one of the region’s most hiked peaks. Its broad open summit affords sweeping views of some of the highest and craggiest peaks in the Olympics and a myriad of islands, straits, bays and peninsulas below. Stand atop this mountain on a clear day and watch ferries and vessels ply the shimmering waters below. Marvel at the Seattle skyline
An award-winning author, photographer, ardent conservationist, Craig is also a NW 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.
Cross several cascading creeks as you follow copious switchbacks upward. At just past 2.5 miles reach a small pine and fir grove nestled on a small knoll just above tiny Windy Lake. And do hope the lake lives up to its name or its resident bugs may force you to move quickly through the area. In another half mile reach the scenic trail to the Silver Lakes. Bear right and soon leave the trees behind as you attain Townsend’s summit plateau. Now traverse the subalpine tundra that upon a quick glance may appear barren. But it’s full of life and in summer beaming with color thanks to a myriad of wildflowers; cinquefoil, phlox, paintbrush, and harebells among them.
Look too in the rocky areas for Piper’s bellflower, a campanula that is endemic to the Olympic Mountains. Owing to its drier aspects, junipers hug the ground throughout Townsend’s summit. FR27 FR27-190
At 4.0 miles from the upper trailhead reach a junction. The main trail continues left descending to the Little Quilcene Trail offering two more approaches to the summit—one from the Northwest and one from the Northeast. Head right for 0.1 mile to the mountain’s highest point, its 6280-feet south summit. Consider continuing on the trail a short distance to Townsend’s northern 6212-foot summit too. It was on this point from 1933 until 1962 that a fire lookout once sat.
The views are great from anywhere along the open peak. Gaze out to the Salish Sea with its sprawling labyrinth of islands, bays, and channels. Watch ferries ply azure waters. Marvel at the Seattle skyline sparkling in the afternoon sunlight. And admire a fortress of Cascade peaks, punctuated by
the snowy volcanoes. Look north to Dungeness Spit, Discovery Bay, the San Juan Islands, and Vancouver Island. And to the west, it’s nothing but pure Olympic wilderness—jagged peaks and deep green valleys.
And if you’re wondering if Townsend (as well as the nearby city and port) takes its name after the 19th century naturalist who named Townsend’s chipmunk, Townsend’s ground squirrel, Townsend’s solitaire and many other species—it is not!
Captain George Vancouver in 1792 bestowed the name Townsend—originally Townshend for the Marquess of Townshend. The father of Thomas Mamby, one of Vancouver’s crew members was an aide-de-camp to the Marquess at the time. The S’Klallam Tribe which
had a community on the bay at the time originally called it Kah Tai which translates to pass through. You’ll probably want to pass through Mount Townsend on a return trip by perhaps ascending it via one of the other routes.
Distance: 8.2 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 2980 feet
High Point: 6280 feet
Difficulty: moderately difficult
Snow free: June to November Trailhead Pass Needed: None
Notes: trail also open to horses, wilderness rules apply
GPS waypoints: Trailhead: N 47 51.385, W 123 02.153
Land Agency Contact: Olympic National Forest, Hood Canal Ranger District, Quilcene; http:// www.fs.usda.gov/olympic
Recommended Guidebook: Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula 2ed (Romano, Mountaineers Books)
Trailhead facilities: none
Trailhead directions: From Shelton, drive US 101 north for 50.5 miles. Upon crossing the Big Quilcene River just shy of the community of Quilcene turn left onto Penny Creek Road. The drive 1.5 miles and bear left onto Big Quilcene River Road (Forest Road 27). Follow this generally good road for 12.5 miles for the lower trailhead turnoff; or 13.7 miles for the upper turnoff. Then reach the lower trailhead in 0.8 mile or the upper trailhead in 0.7 mile.
Fjordin Beer Release Party
May 17 | 5:30 PM to 8 PM
Potlatch Brewery
24180 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport
June 7 | 5:30 PM to 8 PM
Hood Canalé 6871 WA-106, Union
Formed over 13,000 years ago, Hood Canal is not a canal, as defined by Captain George Vancouver when he "discovered" it in 1792, but in fact the only fjord in the lower 48 states. June 22 celebrate this distinction with a unique event held in Hoodsport.
There are plenty of fjords in Canada and Alaska, but averaging 150' deep in some spots and as much as 600' in others, Hood Canal is the only saltwater access fjord (carved by a glacier) in the lower 48.
It is fitting therefore that seven years ago Jan and Chuck Morris, owners of the Hardware Distillery, decided to coin "Fjordin Crossin" to celebrate the annual release of their Hoodsport distilled aquavit. Playing on a Scandinavian tradition of crossing the equator to "age" the spirit with the rocking of the boat, they reached out to local charter operator and friend, Lee Geist. to cross the "fjord" on the MV Tahuya with the barrel.
Over the last half decade it has grown to include a non-motorized paddle across the canal challenge hosted by Hood Canal Events. Participants can bring their own watercraft, rent from Hood Canal Adventures, who are set up with kayaks
at the beach, or, if they have no desire to paddle but want to be part of the action and excitement --book passage on Lady Alderbrook from Alderbrook Resort, to cross Hood Canal alongside the barrel aged aquavit in celebration of a historic Nordic tradition.
On board the Lady Alderbrook Aquavit cocktails are served, and participants take in the day’s festivities from the center of the action. Spectators can purchase advance tickets from the Alderbrook Resort.
On shore there is plenty to do including vendors, oysters, a parade, artisans and children's crafts. The Aquavit Garden serves cocktails on the beach as they await the arrival of the tide which will eventually send them to higher ground and move the events into the main street of Hoodsport where attendees will find additional activities offered by local businesses.
11:00 AM – Food, libations, and vendors open at the Hoodsport Dock. Paddle the Canal registration open.
12:40 PM – Parade from the Distillery to the dock with the barrel of Aquavit. Led by Scandinavian fiddle and accordion musicians.
1:00 PM – Crossing the Fjord begins:
Barrel of aged Dill Aquavit travels from the Port of Hoodsport toward Tahuya and back, and when it returns, the Aquavit has been Fjordin Crossin.
The Paddle the Canal challenge begins.Family and pet friendly paddle comprised of canoes, kayaks, SUPs and/or small sailboats. The Lady Alderbrook arrives. Guests on the boat cheer on Paddle participants, and enjoy Hardware Distillery aquavit cocktails.
2:00 PM – Award ceremony and prizes for the Paddle Challengers.
3:00 PM – After party in Hoodsport. Visit the shops, restaurants, distillery and brewery.
When one is optimistic and excited about life, life is better. We can forgive the bad and we celebrate the good. We can be thoughtful and understanding because our mind is grounded by a tranquil, sound soul — the negative, discomforting moments of the day are easily tolerated. This would be akin to seeing a glass half-full, not half-empty.
The affect of an impatient driver in downtown Shelton, honking and speeding to the red lights, can be brushed away; litter on the side of the road can be forgiven and if possible you can pick it up to keep the sidewalk clean; a smile and greeting towards an individual who is homeless is a simple but respectful gesture.
Recently, however, I have noticed a shift in Shelton and the greater Mason area, and my tolerance for understanding and forgiveness is wearing thin. I feel like we are frogs in warming, soon to be boiling, water. I see the standards for our community constantly lowering—delusion taking the place of reason.
I do not want to cast a negative opinion on my hometown. For consolation, the judgments I have for this area are likely applicable to many small, local communities today.
Even to this country as a whole—we live in unprecedented times. Shelton and Mason County however are where I am from, they are what I know, and they are what I care about.
When comparing the community to what it was 60 years ago I see little resemblance. When hearing of the pride that previous generations had for our local towns and industry, I am saddened. That does not shine through today. Today, our town is littered and grungy, and folks are more willing to complain about things than they are willing to help improve them. Yes, I am criticizing as well, but I do so with a prerequisite of hundreds of hours of volunteer time—for the Guinness Christmas Tree maze, the murals on Overlook Park, and at various other events in the community. I refer mainly to keyboard warriors.
History has its limits—and while I romanticize something through photographs, there are tragic, forgotten stories as well. But anyone who has spoken to their grandparents about their childhood and heard of the fantastic adventures they lived through must admit that there is a measurable metric of 'greatness.' Looking at this metric regarding our downtown core and our community as a whole—events, festivals, gatherings, businesses, industry, volunteerism—the greatness is diminishing.
To narrow the scope of this conversation and limit the vastness of my claim, consider a small area in downtown Shelton between Railroad Ave and Mark E. Reed Way, the site of an original Simpson engine, Tollie. The heritage locomotive is stationed appropriately on Railroad Ave.
The engine is rotting from the inside out. The sheet metal cowling is corroding away and the once jet black paint is oxidized and flaking off, showing an older green/black color scheme that coincidentally matches the mossy slime covering the train. The red caboose behind Tollie is not better off. The wood siding is soft and crumbling, and several areas are patched with white plaster. This original, historical train nods to the history of our logging industry and is showcased as a centerpiece to locals and visitors in Shelton. Its condition is shameful and tragic. I do not have the strength to forgive the disarray any longer.
To borrow a word from the environmentalists, perhaps Tollie is a keystone monument, reflecting a greater problem throughout the entire area.
Post Office Park is across the road from Tollie, adjacent to the Post Office and Second Street. The Christmas tree lighting ceremony has taken place in the Park every year since 1959, now under a beautiful Douglas fir tree planted in memory of Cameron Owen, brother of former Lt. Governor Brad Owen. I remember eating lunch there when attending the preschool under the Post Office. I remember attending Music in the Park concerts, the bands would use a quaint, picturesque gazebo as a stage. Bittersweet memories unfortunately—the Park will be demolished soon for extra parking spaces for the Post Office, and homeless have soiled that property so horribly that the gazebo was removed in 2022. Now the area is littered and hypodermic needles and empty Naloxone packages lay in the grass around the old wood foundation of the gazebo.
I am afraid that our tolerance for unreasonable action has led our community to the state it is in. On principle, I do not believe everything in a community is subject to public criticism or opinion—private buildings and businesses especially—but we should advocate for the preservation of historical and public memorials and spaces.
Photos of Post Office Park taken April 21 (day before Fjord publishing). Tree in park reads "Tweaker Town." Jury is still out on what the parking sign says.
It seems that the worse things get, the more desensitized and out-of-touch our community becomes. The roads look decrepit and unwashed, public spaces and treasures like Tollie and the park are falling apart and being paved over. Mason County lost its fairgrounds over 10 years ago, do people miss it? Shelton would benefit greatly from maintenance and cleanliness.
We should be prideful of our home and take responsibility for its condition. Support local events by joining groups like the Forest Festival Board or Kristmas Town Kiwanis; attend City meetings and ensure your voice is heard, respectfully reminding the public servants that we are not blind to negligence.
Volunteer at local festivals. Attend civic meetings. Talk to your elected officials about things that you care about. Don't find out after its too late. It sounds trite, but change starts at home.
City of Shelton
525 W Cota Street, Shelton (360) 426-4491
Council Tuesday evenings, 6 PM
Shelton Police Department (360) 426-4441
Mason County
411 N 5th St, Shelton (360) 427-9670
Commission Tuesdays at 9 AM
Mason County Sheriff
Shelton : (360) 427-9670 Ext 313 Belfair :(360) 275-4467 Ext 313
Port of Shelton 21 W Sanderson Way, Shelton 1st/3rd Tuesday of each month at 2 PM
Drew MacEwen 35TH LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT
P.O. Box 40435, Olympia, WA 98504
360-786-7668
Marie Cantwell
United States Senator for Washington 915 2nd Ave, Suite 3206 Seattle, WA 98174
Phone: (206) 220-6400
May 7
May 10/11
June 4
Speaker Series – Fjordin’ Crossin & Hoodstock
Community Market @ NCCU
Speaker Series - Union Fire Department
Emergency Prep – Fire Prevention
July 6 Union ReUnion – Picnic Gathering - AGYC Wikiup
July 20 Community Project – Historic Signage Cleanup*
August 6 Speaker Series –– Founder’s Day @ McReavy House
Sept. 9
Speaker Series – Kerry London Myers
Wild Mushroom Cooking
Oct 1 T CANDIDATES FORUM
Oct 5/6 OysterFest Friendraiser
Oct 19 Community Project – Union Cemetery Clean-up*
Nov 5 3rd Annual HCIC Cook-off
Dec 6/7 Holiday Market - Friendraiser
Dec 15 HCIC / McReavy House Christmas Party
*Sign-up sheets will be available or call (206) 604-5871
Email: Info@hoodcanalimprovementclub.org
June 8 National Get Outdoors Day
June 9 Free Fishing Day
June 19 Juneteenth Sept. 28 National Public Lands Day
June 19 Juneteenth Aug. 4 The Great American Outdoors Act Sept. 28 National Public Lands Day Nov. 11 Veterans Day
HOODCANALIMPROVEMENTCLUB.ORG Oct. 10 World Mental Health Day Nov. 11 Veterans Day Nov. 29 Autumn Day
Mark your calendars for June 30, 2024, as the historic Railroad Ave. transforms into a showcase of automotive beauty and nostalgia.
The Mason County Historical Society and the Shelton Downtown Merchants unite to revitalize an age-old tradition.
The event kicks off at 10 AM and goes until 3 PM. Vehicle registration runs from 8 - 10AM, giving you the chance to proudly display your ride at the heart of the action.
Judging for vehicles starts at 10 AM when details will be scrutinized by experts and enthusiasts alike.
For just $20, you can secure your place and compete for one of over 25 awards. But that's not all – the fun doesn't stop with car displays, be sure to check out the vendors, raffles, and the Mason County Historical Society’s museum as well! Be sure to take time downtown to shop and dine as well!
Need some color in your life? Then head over to Lynch Creek's Farm's Tuber Sale to grab your dahlia bulbs and getting planting. Brown thumbs? Check out their field in late summer for some fantastic arrangements and photo opportunities!
The annual sale will be held at Lynch Creek's holiday warehouse (130 E Export Rd) April 27-28, 10 AM - 3 PM. The sale will NOT take place at the U-pick field like in previous years. While they aren't providing a list of varieties available at the sale, there will be a selection tat great prices!
Lynch Creek Farm has been growing dahlias for well over 25 years. In 2018 owner, Andy Hunter, decided to open the dahlia fields to the public as a u-pick – and ever since it has been a much anticipated annual attraction.
Locals photographers and families have been bringing kids and cameras for some spectacular photos in a beautiful setting. With three acres of dahlias to plant and prepare, it's a family affair
with three generations of the Hunter family making sure there are plenty of blooms to go around. Arranged in giant rows, it's a rainbow so large that small planes overhead do a fly over.
The flowers are at their peak in the late summer and fall, so plan to make a day out of it with your friends and family. This makes a great annual tradition with beautiful hand-picked bouquets, special pictures, and a fun adventure.
The farm is open dawn until dusk every day until the first frost (late October) and the stand is often manned with helpful staff. When it’s not staffed there are signs, buckets, clippers, pre-made bouquets, and a drop box to help offset weeding expense. More information is available at lynchcreekdahlias.com. See you in the flowers!
Feast your eyes on a face with
Get any group of divers together in the Pacific Northwest and ask them what makes for a great dive. Everyone will agree that a wolf eel was somehow involved. There is something unique about the supremely ugly faces of an adult wolf eel staring at you from its den. This can turn an ordinary dive into a great one. The conditions don’t matter – cold, terrible visibility or strong currents are forgotten once a wolfie (as we call them locally) appears publicly. It’s not surprising why divers worldwide travel to places like the Hood Canal to catch a glimpse of these fantastic creatures.
Throughout history, the peoples of the northern Pacific have held wolf eels in deep respect. Many of the native tribes in the area viewed the wolf eel as a creature of strength and resilience, symbolizing protection due to its robust and intimidating appearance. This belief often extended to the spiritual realm, where the wolf eel was thought to embody protective spirits. In Washington, the wolf eel is now a protected species in the Puget Sound and Hood Canal.
This is not because they are endangered but because their value as a living resource to divers and photographers far exceeds whatever commercial value the species could provide as a food source. Some dive sites, like Sund Rock in the Hood Canal, are well-known locations where wolf eels interact with divers and provide unique photo opportunities.
Wolfies are not related to eels. Instead, they are part of a family known as the wolf fishes.
"Together and individually, both parents tend the egg mass, 5,000 to 10,000 babies, ensuring their young are rotated often so a steady flow of water passes through them."
They belong to an even larger group of fish known as Perciform, generally considered perch-like fish. But their long-bodied, eel-like appearance is unique in this group of fishes. The wolf eel can be found as far south as San Diego in southern California, then northward up the Pacific coast to the Aleutian Islands in Alaska. The popular term “wolf eel” comes from the large frontal canine-like teeth used to seize their favorite meals, mainly hardshelled crustaceans and invertebrates. The typical menu includes crabs like Dungeness, Red Rock, and Green Urchins.
Most wolf eels can grow to about six feet long and weigh almost thirty pounds, although they can grow to eight feet. These massive fish are speculated to live up to 10 years in the wild, though no research is available on their longevity. Scientists have found that they can begin reproducing between four to seven years, suggesting they may be long-living fish. One fact that I find fascinating is that they lack a swim bladder, a feature commonly found in most fish species. The swim bladder is an internal gas-filled organ that helps fish regulate their buoyancy and control their vertical position in the water column. However, the wolf eel has evolved without this organ, relying on its muscular body and strong pectoral fins to maneuver and maintain its position in the water. The lack of a swim bladder allows wolf eels to lounge around on the bottom or lay in their home lairs. Like snakes, they swim by making S shapes with their bodies and use their pectoral fins to steer. This unique adaptation allows the wolf eel to thrive in rocky coastal habitats, where it can navigate through crevices and caves with exceptional agility. By forgoing the swim bladder, the wolf eel has developed a specialized set of skills, making it an expert hunter and a master of its underwater domain.
Juveniles exhibit a more vibrant and striking appearance that help them blend in with their surroundings, such as rocky reefs or kelp forests.
Additionally, wolf eels have a slimy coating on their bodies, which serves several important purposes for their survival and protection in their marine environment. First, it acts as a natural defense against infections. The slime contains antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and parasites on their skin, reducing risk of infection.
"The
slimy coating makes it difficult for predators to grip or hold onto a wolf eel. "
When threatened or attacked, a wolf eel can release more slime from its skin, making it slippery and challenging for predators to maintain a firm grip. This slippery defense mechanism allows the wolf eel to escape from potential threats. The slimy layer reduces friction when the wolf eel moves through the water, allowing them to easily pass through tight spaces and narrow cracks without getting stuck.
Approximately 24 hours before mating, the female wolf eel’s abdomen becomes noticeably distended. When this happens, the male will butt his head against the back of her abdominal region. This action appears to stimulate physiological activity. A series of waves move through the female's body from her head to her tail, particularly pronounced in her abdominal area. The male will then wrap himself around the female so that their heads will be side by side and their genital regions adjacent. In this position, the female releases the eggs, usually between 5,000 and 10,000, and the male fertilizes them as they appear. After fertilization, the female will coil about the eggs, molding them into a ball-like cluster. The eggs are adhesive to each other but not to the rocky walls of the den. Both parents will then coil themselves about the egg mass, sometimes together and at other times individually, tending the eggs and ensuring they are rotated so that a good flow of water passes through them.
about 1 1/2 inches long. They turn dark gray within a day and start snacking on small shrimp after a few days. The larvae that emerge are left on their own to swim with the plankton in the ocean. From birth, they are voracious predators and will strike at their planktonic prey, much like a coiled snake will strike at a mouse. Constantly searching for prey, the larval wolf eels will lead a pelagic existence. Eventually, the maturing youngsters settle on the ground and enter a den. Denning will typically occur in the Puget Sound area from February through April.
The change from a pelagic to a bottom-dwelling existence spawns physical changes in the juvenile wolf eel. Juveniles exhibit a more vibrant and striking appearance.
A vivid orange or reddish-orange color with darker markings often characterizes their appearance. This vibrant coloration helps juveniles blend in with their surroundings, such as rocky reefs or kelp forests. As they mature into adults, their coloration becomes more subdued brown or reddish-brown. The skin often has spots of a darker color, which may be outlined in a lighter color. The males will also develop a puffy face, enlarged jaws, huge bulbous lips, and a powerful sagittal crest at the top of their heads to support the increased muscle mass required for the jaws.
Both species vie for control over these coveted shelters, which serve as their sanctuary in a harsh underwater world. This struggle is fueled by their shared habitat, prey, and an unyielding desire for the same type of den sites.
With its unmatched dexterity and cunning, the octopus poses a formidable challenge to the wolf eel. I have watched the battle when a GPO ruthlessly evicts a wolf eel, sometimes even targeting mated pairs, and claims the den as its own. Despite the wolf eel's valiant efforts, there is little it can do once an octopus of even modest size has set its sights on a particular den.
There is no fairness in the realm of a Salish Sea rocky reef. A fierce battle for ownership unfolds around the most desirable den sites. The key contenders are the Giant Pacific Octopus (GPO), and the formidable wolf eel.
Ask any diver, and they can attest to the futility of trying to dislodge an entrenched octopus from its chosen abode.
Submerging into the chilly embrace of the Salish Sea transforms the ordinary into the sublime. A serene quietness wraps around you as you descend below the waves, echoing the solitude of an explorer charting new frontiers. Gripping your camera firmly, you traverse this alien landscape, feeling every inch an astronaut on an oceanic planet.
Before long, you approach a wall, its vastness urging you to uncover. You glide along its face, examining each nook, cranny, and boulder with a mix of awe and curiosity. The vividly colored marine life enchants you, each organism a stroke of brilliance from nature’s palette. In this marine maze, your adventure takes a thrilling turn.
From the periphery, a wolf eel appears, locking eyes with you. There’s a mutual recognition, a shared wonder between you and the creature, silently communicating in this mesmerizing undersea world. The thrill of the encounter sharpens your focus, and with camera in hand, you ready yourself to document this surreal moment. You aim and capture the scene, forever preserving your encounter with the wolf eel.
HOOD CANAL DIVING:
Sund Rock Marine Preserve
26472 US-101, Hoodsport sundrock.com
YSS Dive Charters
24080 N US-101, Hoodsport yssdive.com/charters
"Fascinated with the underwater world in the Pacific Northwest, I have been a diver for over thirty years and have never been happier than underwater with a camera. I spend as much time underwater as possible, shooting pictures or teaching diving and photography. You can see and purchase my photo collections at robbinsunderwater. com. If you want to learn about diving or photography, reach me at thomrobbins@gmail.com.
When not diving, I spend time with my wonderful, patient wife, Barb. We have just relocated to Shelton to enjoy a more relaxed life. Without Barb, I wouldn’t have continued my passion for diving. She is my best and often harshest critic, pushing me to explore better photos. I also have a 21-year-old son who makes me want to be a better person daily. Last but certainly not least are my two English Bulldogs, essential to my family's life."
Nestled at the base of the majestic Olympic mountain range, Iliana's Glamping Village at Mike's Beach Resort is a quintessentially Pacific Northwest nature escape. This home away from home offers old world camp charm in the most serene of backdrops that'll have you rejuvenated in no time.
Check availability online or call 360-877-5324.
Puget Sound marine areas will open for recreational spot shrimp fishing beginning May 16. Hood Canal and Discovery Bay will open May 17.
Overall, the 2024 “shrimping” season will start similar to 2023, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) fishery managers confirmed today.
Fishery managers selected these dates to offer opportunities to harvest shrimp while distributing participants and reducing the chance of exceeding recreational quotas. Due to expected turnout, fishery managers emphasize that some areas can’t support weekend openings while remaining within their current quota.
All shrimp — including spot, dock, coonstripe, sidestripe, and pink shrimp — can be retained as part of the daily limit. However, because only larger-mesh (one-inch) pots or traps are allowed during these announced seasons, most harvest will be spot shrimp. Also known as prawns, spot shrimp are the largest shrimp in Puget Sound and may grow up to nine inches in length.
Marine Area 12 (Hood Canal) is open on May 17-18, May 30, and June 15 from 9 AM to 1 PM. Additional dates may be made later in the season. The first tentative additional date is June 28 from 9 - 1 PM only, if quota remains.
Visit WDFW’s recreational shrimp fishing webpage for the latest regulations, including any announcements confirming potential additional days of opportunity later in the season.
JULY 12 – 14
SHELTON
July is a great time to be a Bluegrass fan in Mason County, for that is when the annual Bluegrass From the Forest is held at the Soccer Park on John's Prairie. Filling the 15 acre forest-lined park with music, workshops and campers, this outdoor festival has become a staple of the Northwest Bluegrass schedule.
Bluegrass from the Forest was started nearly two decades ago by Kristmas Town Kiwanis. Over the years proceeds from the Festival have funded countless projects in the area, primarily with the goal to help local youth.
With two stages, a beer & wine garden, food, music vendors, and plenty of level tent and RV sites on the grass. Geared towards both families and individuals of all ages, the festival hosts workshop and "tastings" between sets. The Chick Rose School of Bluegrass is offered through the Festival weekend to kids who may have an interest in bluegrass music. Beginning on the Saturday morning with kids divided into groups according to their musical ability, they are coached by advanced musicians to create a special performance Saturday on the main stage – the goal is to fill the stage with kids and bluegrass music.
Along with the Chicks Kids, the event hosts a variety of instrument and vocal workshops plus concerts and other events during the weekend.
The music ranges from traditional bluegrass to the more progressive styles. The Festival’s program lineup features four major concerts throughout the three days highlighting top talent on the west coast.
Saturday night features the famous "midnight hot-dogs" after the country dance. All the campfire jamming halts momentarily as the pickers and their families join the musicians for a midnight feast in the main tent.
If you would like to stay at a local hotel or motel, visit ExploreHoodCanal.com for a list of area hotels and AirB&B's. Dry camping for RVs and tents onsite is available Thursday (before the festival).
Northwest Bluegrass fans know Jacob Jolliff and his mandolin for playing since he was a teenager in Oregon. Sometimes we saw him on stage with bluegrass legends like David Grisman, who were taken by Jacob’s playing.
At the Berklee College of Music in Boston, he studied jazz, Celtic and other intricate musical forms that influenced his musical versatility. By his sophomore year, he was playing with the roots-music band Joy Kills Sorrow, which toured extensively in the U.S. and overseas. He graduated from Berklee in 2011 and in 2012 he won the National Mandolin Championship in Kansas.
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In 2014 Yonder Mountain String Band contacted him in search of a mandolin player. Jacob played and recorded with Yonder until the end of 2019.These days, the mandolinist’s main focus is The Jacob Jolliff Band. These virtuosic pickers play Jacob’s original instrumentals, while showcasing his singing. They have produced two albums.
Crying Uncle Band – CA
Widely recognized as one of the most exciting young bands in acoustic music, Crying Uncle plays a unique mix of bluegrass, jazz, and modern originals. Brothers Miles and Teo Quale are joined by bassist Andrew Osborn and Ian Ly, all outstanding young musicians of the vibrant California bluegrass scene. Miles and Teo formed the bluegrass band in 2017 which is the recipient of the 2023 International Bluegrass Music Association’s Momentum Band of the Year award.
Hailing from Vancouver, this band has a style and sound that harkens back to the raw and ragged edge of the genre. And while they draw deeply from the masters of the golden era, it’s their original songs that demonstrate just how far they have come. Their songwriting is grounded in tradition, anchored by the soaring harmonies, melodic instrumentation and pushing drive that has come to define their spirited and highly entertaining performances.
Caleb Klauder and Reeb Willms – WA
Known to roots music fans for their soulful harmonies, driving dance tunes, classic original songs and commitment to the raw truth of rural American music, these two have helped inspire the remarkable growth of the old time community in the Northwest. Much of it began with Foghorn Stringband, which Caleb helped start and of which they are both members.
Long known as one of the best vocalists and bass players in the Inland Northwest bluegrass scene. Ms Bonnie is the ‘Rock’ this band is built around. Stan Hall's creatively crafted original tunes have been a favorite wherever he goes. Stan holds down the guitar duties, vocals and harmony. Randy Engle, the most recent addition to the band, brings his mando, octave mando and guitar, along with incredible vocals to round out this trio.
Based in Union this band was recently created out of their love of traditional bluegrass and is sure to delight all! They are becoming a favorite band around the Pacific NW. Guy Demartino, guitar; Gwendolyn Taylor – fiddle; Donald Strand –dobro & mandolin; Martin Strand – bass; and Greg Linder – guitar.
Meet the host band for Bluegrass from the Forest festival ! This traditional Bluegrass band is a local favorite.
As the host band for Saturday night's Country Dance, The Bar-K Buckaroos play traditional western swing dance music in the style of Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys. They bring their love of Bluegrass, Country and Swing, Jazz, Blues and Raggae’ to form a great evening of western swing and 20-40’s era swing music.
Save the date for a very affordable weekend of music and fun! For more information and to purchase tickets visit bluegrassfromtheforest. com. Early bird tickets for the 2024 festival are available through May. Tickets purchased online are held at the front gate of the festival.
Allyn Days & Geoduck Festival, July 19-21
The Allyn Community Association pulls out all the stops for this traditional weekend of fun at Allyn Waterfront Park.
Local and visiting families annually mark their calendar for this community festival that features a low tide Mud Run, alder-smoked salmon dinner, vendor area, beer garden, live music and dancing, children activities and shellfish delicacies galore and even an oyster shucking competition. This event is FREE to attend.
Just four miles south of Belfair on Highway 3, the tiny community of Allyn is a hub for kayaking, fishing, enjoying local dining establishments, or teeing off at Lakeland Village Golf Course.
For more information on this and other local festivals, visit explorehoodcanal.com and select "Events."
Viognier - Tempranillo - Malbec
Roussanne - Late Harvest - Blends And More
Locally produced and bottle using grapes from some of the oldest and most prestigious vineyards in Washington. www.StottleWinery.com 360-877-2247 Open for Tastings in Hoodsport!
HOURS: FRI - SUN, 11 AM - 5 PM
Open for Socially Distanced Tastings Fri - Sun 11am - 5pm (possibly Thursdays as well) Visit our website for the most up to date hours. Due to Covid we are open based on demand. Call ahead recommended on Weekends.
old-fashioned community celebration for all ages
SATURDAY, JULY 27, 10 - 4 PM AT THE FAIR HARBOR MARINA
Hosted at the waterfront Fair Harbor Marina and Port of Grapeview, located along the Grapeview Loop Road, the Water & Art Festival invites all ages to come and enjoy good food, live music, free children’s activities, hole-in-one golf, and shopping for unique quality arts and crafts made by WA artists.
The food court will offer summer fare of hamburgers and hot dogs, along with steamed clams donated by Taylor Seafood, shrimp cocktail, corn-on-thecob, grilled cheese sandwiches, and fruit cobblers made by members of the Grapeview Community Association.
The Children’s Area, always a big draw, offers wooden-boat, birdhouse, and airplane building, along with jewelry making, decorating of baseball caps, face-painting, and a fishing derby.
Story | Marlee CampbellGrapeview Community Association is once again sponsoring the ever-popular Grapeview Water & Art Festival, representing the best of summer in North Mason County. This will be the 29th annual event and you don’t want to miss it!
This year’s Art Corridor offers attendees an extensive display of the work of 48 individually-selected artists representing seven different artistic media.
The ‘Hole-in-One” Golf Event will provide lots of challenge as participants of all ages try to hit a large barge about 50 yards away. The newest addition to the Festival includes the Garden Planting and Information venue for children and adults.
Admission to the Grapeview Water & Art Festival is free as are all the children’s activities, and the money raised from food sales and golf are given back to the community through scholarships and donations to Mason County public schools and charitable organizations.
Thanks to everyone who has attended this popular event over the past seven years, the Grapeview Community Association has donated more than $70,000!
Grapeview Community Association and Grapeview Water & Art Festival Advisory Committee are grateful for the generous support of their sponsors, Fair Harbor Marina and Port of Grapeview, along with numerous community partners including Taylor Shellfish, Mason Transit, Mason County Sheriff, Mason County Fire District 3, Lakeland Village Golf Course, Mason County Tourism, and Kitsap Bank Community Partners Program, who make this annual event possible!
For more information on Grapeview Water & Art Festival, visit on the web at grapeviewwa.com.
Set among the picturesque background of the Pacific Northwest, just off Hwy 101 in Shelton, sits Ridge Motorsports Park. Known for its iconic 2.47-mile Road Course along with a 10,000 sq ft event center, and a 1/5th scale replica go karting track, the Ridge hosts over 300 events annually – from motorcycle and car races, weddings and holiday parties to corporate & client retreats .
The most iconic Ridge event of the year is the nationally televised MotoAmerica Superbikes race, which is set to return June 28th-30th for its fourth consecutive year. Anticipating 10,000 race fans, this family-friendly weekend will have spectators on the edge of their seat watching world class athletes reach speeds near 160mph on highly advanced motorcycles as they try and conquer the Ridge Road Course.
Along with track action, MotoAmerica Superbikes features various off-track fan engagement opportunities. From racer autograph sessions, VIP opportunities, vendors, go kart racing, and surprise weekend entertainment, there is something for all ages during this event.
While MotoAmerica Superbikes takes the most preparation as one of their largest annual events at the Ridge, there are plenty of ways for fans to experience racing on any other day. One is to get behind the wheel of a Ridge Grand Prix go kart and reach speeds near 45mph!
As the only replica go karting track in North America, the Ridge Grand Prix is a1/5th scale model of its big brother, the Ridge Road Course. With the same turns and elevation changes, riders experience the adrenaline of racing as they battle friends and family to take home the title of champion.
If you don’t want to get behind the wheel, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Ridge Motorsports Park. Almost all the events are free for the public. Grab lunch from the café, watch the races from the overlooks, attend a Car Cruise In Night – everyone is welcome and it make a great local day out!
If you are interested in purchasing MotoAmerica Superbikes tickets, wanting to learning more about Ridge Motorsports Park, or looking for something fun to do with your friends and family, visit ridgemotorsportspark.com for more details & schedules.
One of the best things we have done as a family is to host foreign students. It has been a rewarding, educational and just plain fun experience to share and to learn from them. Imagine guiding an international student through local trails of the or exploring the landmarks that dot our area. Each activity, from kayaking to local festivals, immerses the student in the American way of life and rejuvenates an appreciation for the beauty right at our doorstep.
AFS-USA, a non-profit organization, has been a leader in international student exchange for more than 75 years. Its mission is to empower people to become globally-engaged citizens by delivering intercultural learning experiences that provide the knowledge and skills needed to help create a more just and peaceful world.
Families are welcome to host students from over 50 countries. These students attend local high schools, participate in local life and are encouraged to share aspects of their culture. The program also offers study abroad experiences for U.S. students. While students do not have to know another language, many develop second language fluency.
Currently, half of AFS-USA students receive scholarships to see the world. A vast network of more than 3,000 U.S. volunteers support participating educators, students, and families nationwide.
For information visit afsusa.org.
The Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid show is a Telly award-winning documentary series. Viewpoint is distributed across public television stations nationwide. Producers, writers, and editors tie together each episode, using their collective decades of experience working in educational TV.
In 2023, OURCU was approached by Viewpoint to be a featured segment, highlighting the credit union movement in Washington. Our Community Credit Union was established in 1941 by the Simpson Logging Company employees, to provide financial solutions, education, and community support when workers were denied basic financial needs from traditional banking institutions, due to seasonal work in the forest industry. The segment features OURCU staff, community members, local business owner and member, Jeff Slakey and Mason County Sheriff, Ryan Spurling.
The credit unions serving the people of Washington are not-for-profit cooperatives embodying the values of community. Credit unions are unique in that they are owned by the people who’ve chosen them as their trusted banking partners.
In the credit union movement, earnings are reinvested right back into the communities credit unions serve. Every decision made is driven by a commitment to the members’ best financial interests. This means your credit union will strive to offer you the best loans and savings returns possible.
What truly distinguishes credit unions is their connection to the communities they serve. The credit union team lives and works here, too. They share the same passion for making a community stronger and are personally invested in its success.
The story was distributed to Public Television affiliates the week of April 29, 2024.
View the segment now by visiting: www.viewpointproject.com/features-our-community-credit-union.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Do a farm-to-table dining loop experiencing some Northwest flavors – including Hama Hama, Hardware Distillery, Stottle, Hood Canal Winery, Olympic Mountain Ice Cream.
From easy day hikes with the family to overnights or “experience needed” excursions – you don’t have to go far for spectacular memories!
May through October experience nature and history pedaling the timber rail on a 2- hour quadricycle excursion. vancecreekrailriders.com
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.
Don the helmet and clip into your pedals, for there is no shortage of road or trail from which to experience the beauty and thrill of this landscape
PHOTO: TOBY TAHJA-SYRETT
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.
Explore the canal with your own boat or arrange with ALDERBROOK RESORT. Scheduled & private charters available. alderbrookresort.com
Scuba sales, air, training, rentals, and charters available at Hoodsport near renowned destinations like SUND ROCK and OCTOPUS HOLE yssdive.com
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
Hood Canal occupies 150 square miles of the Olympic Peninsula and bellies up to the Olympic National Park. It's home to thousands of species of fish and marine mammals and invertebrates like orcas, oysters, and octopus. There's hardly a better way to take it all in than on the water.
SHELTON is the westernmost city on Puget Sound. Featuring a bustling heritage core, its landscape is marked by colossal forests which led to a title of “Christmas Tree Capital of the World.”
Dubbed CHRISTMASTOWN, USA, since 1962, Shelton successfully won the Guinness World Record for Most Lit Christmas Trees in 2019.
Explore the Shelton Historical Museum with displays on early life on Puget Sound, Hood Canal, and working in the woods. Don't miss the Mason County Forest Festival, May 30June 2, featuring a full parade. masoncountyforestfestival.com
POTLATCH STATE PARK
Longest stretch of PUBLIC BEACH in Mason County with shellfish, kayaking, and Hood Canal water access.
DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED
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
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
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
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
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
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).
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
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
HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER
TO GO: Located just off Hwy 101 in Hoodsport – information, handouts, maps PASSES FOR PURCHASE
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
23,100 acre forest provides open spaces for sightseeing, camping, nature study, fishing, hiking,horse, ATV, ORV, and biking. A “working forest” trail may be closed due to forest management activities.
TOPOGRAPHY deep woods
TO GO: Hwy 300/Belfair
Tahuya Rd, 1.1 mile. DISCOVER PASS
MENARD’S LANDING
Expansive beach with panoramic views of Olympics. Picnic tables. NO FEE/PASS
VISITOR CENTER/ BELFAIR LICENSING
TO GO: On Hwy 3 in Belfair PASSES FOR PURCHASE Park/ vehicle/vessel/fishing/hunting northmasonchamber.com
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.
HUG THE CURVES
As Hwy 101 navigates the bays of HOOD CANAL, imagine relaxing dockside of a beachside cabin, watching the seals roll off the rocks
CANAL SPIRIT
HOODSPORT WINERY, STOTTLE WINERY, and HARDWARE DISTILLERY offer tastings amongst shopping, dining and the famous Olympic Mountain Ice Cream.
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.
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.
Alice’s Little Beach House | 112 N Allie Ahl Ln, Lilliwaup | (360) 877-9226 | aliceslittlebeachhouse.com
Glen Ayr Waterfront Resort | 25381 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | (360) 877-9522 | glenayr.com
Mike’s Beach Resort | 38470 N Hwy 101, Lilliwaup | (360) 877-5324 | mikesbeachresort.com
The Moose House at Lake Cushman | Lake Cushman | themoosehouse.com
Pali-Kai Canal House | 327000 N Hwy 101, Lilliwaup | (360) 426-2224
Sunrise Motel & Dive Resort | 24520 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | (360) 877-5301
Waterfront at Potlatch | 21660 N Hwy 101, Potlatch | (360) 877-9422 | thewaterfrontatpotlatch.com
Yellow House | 23891 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport | (360) 877-6818 | hoodsportndive.com
Allyn
Allyn House Inn | 18350 State Route 3, Allyn | 535-2198 | allynhouseinn.com
Belfair Motel | 23322 NE State Route 3, Belfair | 275-4485 | belfairmotel.net
Gladwin Beach House | 391 Gladwin Beach Rd, Belfair | (360) 337-2960 | explorehoodcanal.com
Sisters Point Waterfront Cabin | 12121 NE North Shore Rd, Belfair | (360) 275-6816
Summertide Resort | 15781 NE Northshore Road Tahuya | (360) 275-9313 | summertideresort.com
Alderbrook Resort & Spa | 10 E Alderbrook Drive, Union | (360) 898-2200 | alderbrookresort.com
Blue Heron Resort Condos | 6520 E SR106, Union | (360) 614-3191 | attheblue.com
Cottages at Hood Canale | 6871 E SR 106, Union | (360) 710-7452| booking.hoodcanale.com
Harmony Hill Retreat Center | 7362 E SR 106, Union | (360) 898-2363 | harmonyhill.org
Hood Canal Events Accommodations | curated short term rentals | hoodcanalevents.com
Hood Canal Resort Properties | 8761 E SR 106, Union | (360) 842-9779 | hoodcanalresort.com
Robin Hood Village Resort | 6780 E State Route 106, Union | 898-2163 | robinhoodvillageresort.com
The largest chainsaw carving outlet, BEAR IN A is a great place to explore this unique art. They also teach chainsaw carving.
Waterfront Grapeview is the location of first winery and vineyards of the Pacific Northwest.
BEACH WALK
The area features quaint shops, a variety of restaurants, and beach parks.
There are plenty of great public beaches to explore and launch points for your kayaks.
ALLYN & GRAPEVIEW enjoy gorgeous views of the protected harbor waters of Case Inlet. The area features quaint shops, waterfront lodging, restaurants, and beach parks. Annually, the Grapeview area hosts the Water and Art Festival, a day-long event featuring entertainment and juried artists.
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
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
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
In every community, there are individuals who work to ensure the safety and well-being of others. In Mason County there are a group of volunteers who are always ready to assist those in need: the Mason County Search and Rescue (SAR) team. The SAR team comprises of individuals who offer their expertise, time, and energy to help others in times of need. These volunteers cover a diverse terrain and are always ready to respond to emergencies.
In coordination with the Mason County Sheriff's Office, the SAR team is a vital organization that primarily provides critical search and rescue response within Mason County but extends its assistance beyond county lines when necessary. Comprised of volunteers, the team's dedication to its mission is evident in its members' commitment to undergo rigorous training and certification processes.
Each volunteer invests countless hours honing their skills, whether it's in ground searching, canine operations, or specialized areas like mobile units and aerial drone reconnaissance. They devote this time and resources without expectation of compensation. The organization is 100% donor-funded relying on grants and donations to cover operational expenses.
Mason County's diverse landscape presents unique challenges for SAR operations. From dense forests to rugged mountains and waterways, the terrain demands specialized skills and resources. SAR volunteers undergo extensive training in navigation, wilderness survival, rope rescue, and medical aid to effectively respond to emergencies in any environment.
Through the Garden Gate: Veggies in Abundance
Saturday, February 25, 9:30 - 12 PM
Mason County Public Works, Shelton
Through The Garden Gate is offering both in person and zoom options for the workshops this year. See page 22.
Adult Prom Fire and Ice
Saturday, Feb 25, 6 -10 PM
1060 West Eells Hill Road, Shelton
The team's efforts are particularly crucial during peak seasons when outdoor recreational activities attract visitors to the area. The transition from winter to spring often sees a surge in search requests as inexperienced hikers and outdoor enthusiasts venture into unfamiliar territory unprepared for the elements. Despite these challenges, the SAR team remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the community, exemplifying courage, professionalism, and compassion in every mission.
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 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.
Giving search and rescue a bigger spotlight is a compelling new documentary titled "Where the Rope Ends." Recently screened foe Mason County audiences, the film chronicles a harrowing rescue mission involving a 60-foot fall in a remote canyon. By sharing their experiences and raising awareness, the film aims to inspire support for SAR organizations and encourage community involvement in emergency response efforts.
OFFSHORE: Culinary Adventure Tent at Alderbrook
This gripping documentary offers a rare glimpse into the world of search and rescue, capturing the courage, dedication, and resilience of SAR volunteers. For Mason County SAR, the film serves as a testament to their ongoing commitment to serving others, inspiring support, and awareness for their mission.
Thur- Sat , Mar 2- 4, 6:30 PM 10 E Alderbrook Drive, Union Be immersed in four courses of delicious locally sourced ingredients. alderbrookresort.com
Through the Garden Gate: Is a Victory Garden For You?
Saturday, March 4, 9:30 - 12 PM
Mason County Public Works, Shelton Through The Garden Gate is offering both in person and zoom options for the workshops this year. See page 22.
Membership in Mason County SAR is open to individuals aged 14 and older who want to help others and are willing to respond to emergencies as needed. Whether providing medical aid, conducting search operations, or offering logistical support, every volunteer plays a vital role in the organization's mission to save lives and reunite families.
Free day at WA State Parks
Thursday, March 9, all day
Celebrate the legacy of Billy Frank Junior's Birthday.
Through the Garden Gate: Native Bees a Buzzin'
Saturday, March 11, 9:30 - 12 PM
To learn more about Mason County SAR and how you can support their mission, visit masoncountysar.org.
Mason County Public Works, Shelton n person and zoom options for the workshops this year. See page 22.
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Some of the nation’s top songwriters, including Grammy winners and hitmakers, will be descending on Union in July. And if some Union boosters have their way, this is the beginning of the tiny fjord town’s emergence as a summer music destination.
This year’s Peace, Love & Union Saltwater Songwriter Festival is technically the first annual, converting last year’s songwriter series of the same name into a single long weekend festival that warms up with a July 16 pub crawl and kicks off with the free and open-to-thepublic “Girls Just Wanna Have Rum” women singer-songwriter showcase at “The Point” at the Alderbrook Golf Club on July 17. The ticketed portion of the festival takes place at the historic Robin Hood Villages Resort from Thursday afternoon through Saturday night and features songwriters ranging from local to legendary, topped by two Grammy winners:
Paul Overstreet is the only songwriter in history to be named BMI’s songwriter of the year five years in a row (198791). He has written Number One songs for Randy Travis, Alison Krauss, Blake Shelton (“Some Beach”), Kenny Chesney (“She Thinks My Tractor’s Sexy”), Tanya Tucker (“I Won’t Take Less Than Your Love”), The Judds (Grammy winning “Love Can Build a Bridge”) and many more. Some of his songs are literal country standards, including classics “Forever and Ever Amen” and “When You Say Nothing at All.”
Kristian Bush headlined the 2023 Songwriter Series, and he and Union fell in love with each other. He and partner Jennifer Nettles are reuniting this fall as Sugarland for a reunion arena tour with Little Big Town, but Kristian and his keyboard player and musical director brother Brandon (Sugarland, Train, John Mayer, Megan Moroney) are making time to be back in Union this summer for an encore performance at the festival.
Caribbean-born Mishka, was a Jimmy Buffett fave, friend and co-writer and has also chalked up five I-Tunes Number One reggae albums in his two-decades-plus music career. He will co-headline a night of the festival with Southern California surf rockers in heavy rotation on Radio Margaritaville and No Shoes Radio The Wheeland Brothers, making a rare Northwest appearance.
Thom Shepherd (“Riding with Private Malone,” “Red Neck Yacht Club”) performs on Thursday night with wife and Grand Old Opry alum Coley McCabe Shepherd, who also hosts Wednesday’s showcase, and award winning songwriter Eric Erdman,
boasting a new song placement in this summer’s Spielberg-produced blockbuster sequel “Twisters” makes his third trip to Union. Legendary songwriter Danny O’Keefe (“Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues”), award-winning Nashville songwriter Caitlin Cannon and Austin-based Songwriter/comic Stoney Gabel join local and regional artists Stephanie Anne Johnson, Kitty Mae, Cailley Robinson, and David Ashby as artists slated to perform at the official event, while other artists will be performing at surrounding venues.
“This festival is a great addition to the summer calendar for this area,” says promoter Kelli Kohout, whose growing annual Hoodstock event in August celebrates local music and arts and culminates in a shore concert with a floating audience of boaters near the marina. “I especially love the fact that it gives our local artists a chance to meet and perform with some of these well known artists and to be heard by people visiting Union from other parts of the state and the country.”
“I’m a fan of the festival,” says John DeLeva, whose new pizzeria wine bar Hood Canalé is a sponsor of the event
and will host some before-and-after festivities, “here we are in a town with no traffic lights, visited by some of the great songwriters in the country."
"Instead of running to the parking lot to beat the traffic like you would after a big theater or arena concert," continues DeLeva, "every night when the show’s over you might be and having pizza and a glass of wine with the artists.”
Is Union about to become the Northwest’s Key West?
The tiny burgh on the shores of the Hood Canal’s Great Bend has some things in common with the Florida isle that has long been one of America’s favorite tropical tourist destinations.
The Jimmy Buffett tropical Isle and gulf coast vibe that’s finding its way to Mason County this summer could become a permanent part of Union’s image and reputation.
“You can walk down Duvall Street in Key West or. the main drag in a beach town on the Gulf Coast on a Monday afternoon and hear live music coming from the bars,” says Rob Hill, an artist and songwriter himself who also was tapped to chair Meeting of the Minds, the annual convention of “Parrot
Heads” - the moniker for fans of Jimmy Buffett and his progeny - for its final two years in Key West before it moved to Gulf Shores, Alabama last year. “On a smaller scale, that’s becoming true of Union in the summer time, and the last
few years have seen more touring musicians discover the benefits of visiting this area during the summer when the weather is perfect here and maybe just a little too sweaty down in Texas and Florida.”
Although it’s all good for local business, Hill says it’s also a boost for the local charity partners including Harmony Hill Healing Retreat, The Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Project and Salmon for Soldiers. And of course it enhances the quality of life, making the summer months on the Hood Canal even more irresistible.
Tickets and more information about the performers and the venues are available at www.peaceloveunion.net.
There was not a dry eye in the house. Combat veteran Todd Johnson sat on stage alongside songwriter Steve Williams, known for hit songs including “Red Neck Yacht Club” and George Strait’s “Where Have I Been All My Life?” Williams was in the middle of the debut performance of “Dog-Faced Soldier,” a song he’d written that very weekend, based on Todd’s experience working with his bomb-detecting dog Max during his time in the service in Iraq. The audience of about 200 sat in awed silence as Todd, head bowed, heard his story come to life in the song. The audience, at the song’s conclusion, stood and cheered for a full minute. For some, the weeping lasted a little longer.
Williams and Johnson had been connected by the non-profit Operation Song, which pairs returning veterans with pro songwriters. Operation Song, whose slogan is “Bringing Them Home, One Song at a Time,” is partnering this summer with songwriters at the Peace Love & Union Saltwater Songwriters Festival for a similar event this summer, scheduled to take place at the Alderbrook Golf Club on Sunday morning, July 21, in partnership with the Salmon for Soldiers Fundraising Tournament. Williams himself won’t be there, but he’s a frequent contributor to Operation Song and says that everyone - the writers, the veterans, the audiences - are in for a moving treat.
“A lot of times it’s tough to get the veterans to open up, but once they do, you better have the recorder going,” he said. “Sometimes you’re hearing things they haven’t even told their wives.” Williams says he doesn’t feel pressure in the process but that he does say a little prayer that he is able to do justice to their stories. He’s reluctant to accept praise for the work because he says “It’s hard to take credit when you’ve asked for help from above.”
For Todd, it was exciting to see the songwriter’s brain at work, seeking an idea that could be set to music. The two were well into their meeting before Steve latched on to the story of Todd and Max. “He’d run into a problem and then he’d just get up and walk around and look out a window and distract himself and then he’d come back with a solution.”
But what really impressed and surprised Todd was how the story of him and his bomb-sniffing dog became so universally relatable through the song.“Steve made it so that everyone understood,” he explained. “I had never even told the story before, because I just thought it was so hard for others to relate to, even other soldiers.”
“It’s good for guys to tell their stories,” he added, “not just for me, but I know other guys that will get something from hearing my song.” Although he didn’t have the expectation that this would be a healing process, he says, “I heard the song in a couple of different revisions and then the final version on the stage, and each time I heard it, I teared up. I don’t know why it brought up so many emotions, but I guess there were things I had never worked through.”
Singer-songwriter Caitlin Cannon will be working with Operation Song for the first time at the Peace, Love & Union Saltwater Songwriters Festival, though it is not her first experience like this. She has a residency as a songwriter at a Florida prison writing with inmates and has written with veterans through other programs. She recalls thinking that the experience writing with inmates would prepare her to some extent to for writing with veterans.
“But it was really different,” she admits. “I spent the whole first day weeping, and the vets were comforting me. Songwriters and vets are two very different groups of people coming together that don’t typically have much contact,” she adds. “ I don’t know anyone in my songwriting community that has touched war in that way. I was very honored that they trusted me with their stories.”
Because Caitlin has a brother in prison, she was familiar with that culture and knew that the songwriting experience would benefit the inmates. When she was asked to write with vets, she was little less confident at first.
“At first, I didn’t know that I could offer something of value to people who had done things that require true bravery,” she admits. “But it does take another kind of bravery to tell your story, to bare your soul and be vulnerable and to be celebrated for it. And that is something that I can give and teach.”
She says that she’s found that the culture of service and selflessness can be a barrier to the process, since service members are not people that are accustomed to being applauded. Some of them, she says, need “permission” to be vulnerable. And while she doesn’t use the word “healing” to describe her work because of the stigma, she says there’s always an element of healing that is a byproduct of this creative process.
“Songwriting is a language, and I am still learning it,” she says. “A lot of times, a song begins with an irritant, something that really bothers me or
causes pain, and the process of naming that pain and converting it into three and a half minutes of story and solid information, is a huge release. If we just keep our pain inside of us, it’s a destructive force. But when it becomes a song, we’ve turned it into something we can love and be proud of, and maybe even something that will mean something and be helpful to someone else. And that’s wonderful.”
Operation Song is a national nonprofit organization which empowers veterans, active duty military members, and their families to tell their stories through the process of songwriting. Participants need no writing or musical skill or experience, only a willingness to share their stories, and with the help of professional songwriters, transform them into song.
The brunch concert celebrating local veterans and debuting some of the songs created by them in partnership with their songwriters is part of the Peace, Love & Union Saltwater Songwriter Festival in Union running from July 17-21. Tickets to the festival, which include admission to the Sunday brunch concert at the Golf Club, are available at www.peaceloveunion.net. Any remaining tickets will be made available to the general public two weeks prior to the event.
May 10 & 11, 2024
Friday & Saturday 10am-4pm
If you’ve been to Shelton, chances are you’ve driven by Post Office Park, a green space downtown with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. However, recent developments have thrown its future into uncertainty, sparking a debate between local authorities and the Federal government. In a recent conversation with Mayor Eric Onisko, the future of Post Office Park came to light. Without intervention, the 65th Tree Lighting for Christmastown WA might not happen this December.
Since 2018, the city of Shelton has been negotiating with the Federal government, which owns the property housing Post Office Park. The aim was to transfer ownership of the parcel to the city, ensuring its continued use as a public space. However, recently the U.S. Postal Service withdrew from the negotiations, leaving the park's future in jeopardy.
Mayor Onisko revealed the history of the negotiations, tracing back to the city's attempts to renew its 20-year lease on the park in 2017. Despite years of discussions and even financial contributions from the city, the reversal by the Postal Service came as a shock to the mayor. The proposed alternative of converting the park into a parking lot, starting on or around July 1, 2024, has fueled concern among residents of Shelton and those dedicated to preserving its history.
Since the first rumblings of the potential loss of Post Office Park, the Shelton community has supported keeping the park as is.
Concerned citizens have undertaken multiple efforts, including petitions garnering over a thousand signatures, local media appearances highlighting the effort, and outreach to elected representatives at both state and federal levels. Post Office Park is significant in Shelton as a cultural and historical landmark, and it has been the venue for the annual tree-lighting since 1959.
The absence of required permits or consultations with the city regarding the proposed development underscored the challenges posed by federal jurisdiction over the park. Nevertheless, Onisko remains hopeful that advocacy efforts could sway the outcome in favor of preserving the park.
As the deadline for potential development looms, the rallying cry to save Post Office Park will grow louder. In the face of bureaucratic hurdles and uncertain outcomes. It is a testament to the enduring bond between a community and its cherished landmarks, reminding us that we have things worth fighting for.
With plenty of new events planned for the summer, the museum & Mansion got ready with major upgrades and updates! A new website, additional storage and the museum's long awaited “re-do”:
A new 32x10 storage unit funded by the Washington State Historical Society will properly house collections, enabling displays to be refreshed periodically.
Curating items has allowed volunteers to focus on local history. They are also currently working on a new paint job on the Museum, to match the Mansion.
Public events are planned all summer. In June they will host a gravel bike race, the Bon Jon Pass Out, for the fourth year. This competition is the largest of its kind in Jefferson County.
Up Up Up Circus will return for its fourth year in July, attracting visitors who will picnic while catching the free circus performance.
The award winning and challenging nine-hole golf course is open to the public year-round and has planned new events for summer 2024.
A series of lessons are planned for men, women and youth beginning in June. Men’s lessons kick off the week on Monday June10. Ladies Wine & Golf eare on Tuesday & Fridays beginning June 11, and the youth eight lesson program begins Monday through Thursday, June 17-27. Call (360) 426-6290 to reserve your specific lesson and time.
Enjoy Saturday Wake-up Espresso scrambles beginning May, and tournament choices throughout the season.
Limerick was awarded a prestigious Golfers Choice Award by Golf Pass 2024. #19 of the Top 25 Short
August's 15th annual Tasting Gala - features libations from across the region. The Oyster Races half marathon, 10K, and 5K will return in September for the twelfth year.
Wedding, anniversary, memorial, and family reunion celebrations will also take advantage of the park throughout the summer.
Summer golf at Lake Limerick is a great time to experience the #1 Golf Course in Mason County 2022 –2024. Try our award winning Café for breakfast or lunch before or during your golf outing. Thank you for your continued support!
Courses Nationally. It was also awarded the Mason County 2023 People’s Choice for the second year. The course is in excellent shape with many new improvements in 2023.
The café staff is ready to provide a hearty breakfast or lunch before or after your round.
Searching for a day or evening venue? The facility also have the Great Hall, a lake front rental space available at the LLCC Inn across from the Golf Course. For information call (360) 426-3581 or visit lakelimerick.com, the club is ready to reserve your next tournament, scramble or lesson.
Play 18 with Split tees - Par 72 Lessons and Annual Golf Membership Available We Strive to Remain #1 in Mason County
Serving our Members and the Public
www.LakeLimerickGolf.com golfpro@lakelimerick.com 811 E Saint Andrews Drive
Shelton WA 98584Join us on FB @Lake Limerick Golf Club
Employees from the City of Shelton and businesses in the Shelton Downtown Merchants Association are making plans to host an inaugural Shelton Art Walk on Cota Street this summer. This event is designed to bring a renewed sense of pride and energy to the downtown area while promoting local artists and performers.
This event marks the beginning of the City's journey to establish a Downtown Shelton Creative District. Established by the Washington Arts Commission in 2017, a Creative Arts District is defined as "walkable, geographically defined area of cultural and economic activity." The program works to support economic "placemaking" in communities dedicated to growing their arts-related sectors. In addition to providing designation by Washington, the program provides capital support for Certified Creative districts.
The Shelton Arts Walk is the first step in this certification process. The event is planned for a evening night market and exposition on two blocks of Cota Street, July 27, 4-10 PM. The group is anticipating up to 80 local vendors and artists showcasing their talents through a variety of mediums including live performances.
For more information and how you can be involved as a participant or an attendee visit the the Arts Walk page on sheltondowntownmerchants.com
Hood Canal Communications is celebrating 90 years of innovation. Call 360.898.2481 or visit hcc.net to learn about our 90th Anniverary promotions on Gig speed internet, Smart WiFi, and nexTV.
In the heart of Shelton, something extraordinary is happening at the William G. Reed Library. It's not just a haven for books anymore; it's a space where imagination sets sail. I recently visited the library with Executive Director Cheryl Heywood and checked out the SS Jolly Reader, a 26' pirate ship reading nook! As we sat for our interview, Cheryl's enthusiasm was obvious as she introduced me to this magnificent creation. The Jolly Reader, nestled downstairs at the Library, is more than just an exhibit—it's a vibrant space where children can embark on literary adventures.
The Jolly Reader is just the start of TRL’s effort to engage library users. Cheryl talked about Timberland's commitment to reaching communities beyond traditional brick-and-mortar libraries. This program is called the Anywhere Library, a mobile service initiative designed to bring the magic of reading directly to the people.
With a team of specialists and a fleet of vans, the Anywhere Library initiative is breaking down barriers to access, no community is too remote for a visit from the Anywhere Library. Cheryl shared hopes to reach 31 locations each month, across all five counties.
Beyond its role as a literary hub, the Shelton Timberland Library serves as a place for events and meetings. With a newly reinforced outdoor deck, they're poised to become an even more inviting space for patrons to engage as soon as they get the okay from officials.
Cheryl shared insights into another new program, “The Library of Things,” a collection evolving with community needs. Recent additions, such as blood pressure monitoring kits, underscore the library's commitment to promoting health and wellness.
As we reminisced about the days of microfiche machines, Cheryl highligh the library's transition to digital resources, epitomized by the Libby app and a new website. With access to a catalog of e-books, e-audiobooks, and e-magazines, the exponential growth in digital downloads reflects a shifting landscape meeting the evolving needs of patrons.
From Jolly Reader to the teen zone, the library is evolving as a community hub. With a commitment to innovation and inclusivity, the Timberland Library System charts a course where every individual has access to knowledge.
Celebrating twenty years in 2024, the Karen Hilburn Cancer Fund has been a lifeline for over 600 individuals grappling with cancer's challenges. Hilburn reflected on the journey with pride, reminiscing about the early days when the fund's vision started taking shape. Central to its success is the community support and generosity. Held at the Alderbrook Resort and Spa in April, this year's dinner auction raised over $60,000 for local cancer patients.
While the primary focus remains on supporting women battling breast cancer, the Cancer Fund recognizes the importance of inclusivity. Men facing breast cancer receive the same level of care and assistance, highlighting the organization's commitment to addressing diverse needs within the Mason County community.
Organizations like the KHCF serve as beacons of hope, compassion, and resilience. Through impactful initiatives, the fund illuminates the path toward healing. If you or someone close is in need of assistance, visit the karenhilburncancerfund.org or phone, (360) 462-FUND (3863).
SATURDAY, JUNE 12, 8:30 - 3 PM
The course begins and ends in Shelton, traveling past Lake Limerick, circling Mason Lake. The entry fee is $40 in advance and $50 on the day of the ride. Hope to see you there! karenhilburncancerfund.org
With a mission to inspire healthy living for all and transform the lives of those affected by cancer, Harmony Hill is shifting their focus from operating a retreat-based center to offering a program that can serve more communities.
What started as a wellness center in 1986 by Gretchen Schodde, ARNP, has evolved into a cancer retreat center, offering retreats and workshops free to participants and their caregivers. The facility also offered health professional renewal retreats, wellness programs, and
Harmony Hill outcomes demonstrated that over 90% of cancer retreat participants reported an increased sense of well-being, awareness of the value of self-care, and sense of connection with others and with life, decreased stress, and decreased fear and anxiety.
Recently a participant remarked that the retreat “brought me hope, brought me to love, gave me community.” Harmony Hill’s 38-year mission has reached thousands.
In May of 2024, the organization is shifting to operate their nonprofit programs across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. “This is an incredible time of change and opportunity,” said Harmony Hill Executive Director, Cheryl Sesnon. “Although we hope to continue delivering our programs at this beautiful site in the future, the expansion allows us to reach urban areas, underserved communities, and meet people where they are, not just those who can make it to Union.”
Harmony Hill’s Seattle location, the Orion Center for Integrative Medicine, is a healing, research, and education hub committed to making integrative medicine the standard of care for cancer survivors. The work of Dr. Bonnie McGregor, founder of Orion and Director of Clinical Research for Harmony Hill, in partnership with the
University of Washington, is leading cutting-edge research for psilocybin-assisted therapy in a retreat setting, as a new treatment for anxiety and depression in Stage 4, metastatic cancer patients. This is the first research of its kind in North America.
In 2024 Harmony Hill plans to plans to expand services by developing programs and scholarships and fostering cancer support services in culturally and language-specific ways while continuing
to bring relief and renewal to healthcare providers through more retreats and workshops to reduce turnover in hospital staff. They will also support making research-validated programs like “Living SMART with Cancer” available to all cancer patients through symbiotic partnerships with Orion Center for Integrative Medicine.
Harmony Hill is a nonprofit 501c3. To learn more about their programs or to donate, visit harmonyhill.org.
United Way of Mason County is gearing up for its annual Spring Dessert and Gift Auction, held at Shelton's Civic Center on May 10. Organized by local volunteers, it has become a Mother’s Day's tradition providing an opportunity to gather, bid on treats and gifts, and support a worthy cause.
The Auction raises funds to support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for Mason County residents. From aiding food banks to facilitating youth activities and supporting veterans, their impact resonates across the community.
Executive Director Ted Jackson has also been leading efforts to expand broadband access. Recognizing the importance of connectivity, especially during the pandemic, United Way's endeavors to ensure equitable access for all residents.
April 24 - 10:00am - Noon
Containers/Raised Beds/InGround planting
May 22 - 10:00am - Noon
Soils/Composting/Fertilizing
June 26 - 10:00am - Noon
Vegetables/Small Fruits
July 24 - 10:00am - Noon
Firewise Landscaping
Aug 28 - 1:30pm -3:30pm Garden Cleanup
Location: Hoodsport Timberland Library
N Schoolhouse Hill Rd Hoodsport, WA
With the support of dedicated board members, volunteers, and community partners, as United Way of Mason County approaches its 60th anniversary, its legacy of service and compassion remains as strong as ever.
The 2024 Spring Dessert and Gift Auction will be hosted May 10 at 12 PM at the Civic Center at 525 Cota Street in Shelton. For questions regarding tickets and donations, call (360) 426-4999 or email info@ unitedwaymason.org.
If you are looking for enthusiastic canal fans look no further than our own Rest-A-While RV Resort nestled on the shore of Hood Canal between Hoodsport and Brinnon. Bathed in nostalgic tradition, manager, Elizabeth Bennett and her husband Rio are transforming this destination into a home way from home for the annual returning guests that ebb and flow with the season.
"We are doing a full beautification of this stunning waterfront RV resort this year," she proudly states, " going back in time, 30 years ago, we had red geraniums in all the waterfront pots. We are so thrilled to bring this RV park back into its original beauty." Elizabeth credits local gardeners and community members, Janelle Lampley and Tudi Whitright, for their guidance in bringing about the beautification.
It now offers 95 waterfront and forested RV sites, group clubhouse, and hosts a private oyster and clam beach along with engaging seasonal activities like arts festivals, live music, open mic, and summer celebrations.
The Sund family descendants still keep a loving eye on this piece of Canal history. Local resident, Cindy Sund curates the historical photos of her family's legacy and manages the nearby
postcards from the past with Elizabeth and Rio – ice cream parlors in Hoodsport; images of the former gas station; cabins nestled in giant firs – hearkening back to a time of family relaxation.
"We are just keeping the history alive and bringing back old traditions and making new ones – while you wait for a pizza from Honeybee Pizzeria," remarks Elizabeth, "play with your kids on the beach or we even have over 50 classic video games!"
The hosts at Rest-A-While acknowledge the first inhabitants of the lands they steward as well. "As we live on this majestic, sacred land that was originally the Skokomish Indian tribe where they would fish, hunt, harvest oysters, weave baskets, build canoes," says Elizabeth reflectively, "we are in gratitude."
Recently, to the delight of the locals, the former Honeybee Drive-In, opened on site as a waterfront pizzeria. Preparing food Thursday through Sunday, they offer homemade pizza as well as salads, fries, and grinder sandwiches. While Resort guests love the convenience of grabbing their food to eat at waterfront picnic tables; the whole community is thrilled that Jim and his team have reopened this favorite dining spot so go to littlejimsmenu.com.
Start your day early so as to catch the spectacular sunrises over the Canal. Explore the beach or enjoy a refreshing walk in the cedar groves by Sund Creek and follow the salmon run in the autumn. In the evening relax with a tasty BBQ, beautiful sunset and crackling campfire. Guests are able to harvest oysters and clams from the Resort's tidelands.
The Resort welcome families and pets. At $50/day for waterfront and including WIFI, digital TV hook up, power, water and sewer, Rest-A-While remains reasonable with promise of priceless experiences. To learn more or book a reservation visit restawhile.com, call (360) 8779474, or stop by the office at 27001 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport. Follow Rest-AWhile online for events and updates.
As the summer sun warms the Pacific Northwest, there's a buzz of excitement in Union, WA. The 7th Annual Hoodstock Music and Arts Festival is on the horizon, promising a weekend filled with music, art, and community spirit. Scheduled for August 15th to 18th, this year's event is set to be the biggest and most vibrant yet, showcasing the immense talent of the region while supporting vital programs in Mason County.
More than just a music festival, Hoodstock embodies a mission of positivity and innovation, striving to foster a sense of community while nurturing the arts and environmental education.
At its core, Hoodstock is a celebration of everything that makes the Pacific Northwest unique: its breathtaking natural beauty, its rich artistic heritage, and its vibrant, tight-knit communities. One of the objectives is to support programs in Mason County that focus on youth
environmental, music, and arts education. This year, the recipients of Hoodstock's giving are the Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group, Hood Canal and North Mason School.
Funds raised during the festival will go towards youth environmental education programs and music education initiatives, ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to connect with their environment and express creatively through music and the arts.
Each year, Hoodstock grows in scope and scale, thanks to the overwhelming support of the community. From local businesses to dedicated volunteers, everyone comes together to make the festival a success. And this year, there truly will be something for everyone.
The festivities kick off on Thursday, August 15th, with the Hoodstock pre-funk party at the Hood Canale, featuring the electrifying sounds of Groove Lab!
Music will also return to the iconic Robin Hood Village, where visitors can enjoy live performances and browse artisanal vendors.
For landlubbers, the music starts on Friday, August 16th at 6 PM, with Hoodstock Country featuring the Union City Council, Nick Cain, and The Kitty Mae Band at the Robin Hood Stage. Then, on Saturday, the Main Stage opens for seagoers featuring Suped Up Fjord, Lovely Colours, and the Olsen Bros. Band.
Attendees are encouraged to buy flags and float along with the show, while those without boats can reserve a 2 hour cruise on the Lady Alderbrook to the festival site.
To fully immerse yourself in the Hoodstock experience, be sure to purchase a festival flag, available starting Memorial Day weekend at the Union Country Store, May Mobile Marine, Summertide Resort, and online at the Hoodstock at hoodstock.org. These flags not only serve as your ticket, but also a symbol of unity and celebration as attendees to float along with the music, creating unforgettable memories on the water.
For those looking to explore downtown Union, the heart of the festival, they'll find a vibrant atmosphere alive with anticipation. Downtown Union serves as the launching spot for the water events, offering easy access to the festivities. After a day of enjoying the music and art, festival-goers can indulge in amazing food at the Union City Market’s Hook & Fork, 2 Margaritas Family Mexican Restaurant, and the Union Country Store, all of which will be offering delicious fare to fuel the fun.
Meanwhile, the Robin Hood Stage will be in full swing on Saturday, starting at noon until 10PM with performances by the Tami Frost Trio, AuraShine,
The Hipocrats, Honey Babe, DNA, Bandits of the Animal Kingdom, and The Hinges. The Robin Hood Village will also be bustling with 14 vendors showcasing their wares, noon to 5 PM.
As the sun sets over Hood Canal, the music will continue, filling the air with melodies that echo through the trees and across the water. It's a weekend of celebration, creativity, and community—a testament to the spirit of the Pacific Northwest.
Mark your calendars for the 7th Annual Hoodstock Music and Arts Festival. For more information go to www.hoodstock.org and follow the updates on the Hoodstock Facebook page.
Thursday, August 15:
HoodStock Pre-funk (21+)
Hood Canale, 6 - 8 PM
Featuring: Groovelab
Friday, August 16:
Hoodstock Country (21+)
Robin Hood Village Resort, 6 -10 PM
Featuring: Union City Council, Nick Cain, and the Kitty Mae Band
Saturday, August 17:
Main Stage - on the water, 12 – 6 PM
Featuring: Suped Up Fjord, Lovely Colours, and The Olson Bros. Band
Robin Hood Village 12 – 5 PM all ages 6 – 10 PM 21+
Featuring: The Tami Frost Trio, Aurashine, The Hipocrats, Honeybabe, DNA, Bandits of the Animal Kingdom, and The Hinges
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 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!
Full off on Hwy 101, stairway to beach at north opening of Lilliwaup Bay. Walk north or south when tide is out. Oysters and Clams. Eagles and osprey. Overnight RV camping permitted; no restrooms.
TAYLOR SHELLFISH
130 SE Lynch Rd Shelton (360) 432-3300
Taylor’s product line includes worldwide export of geoduck, clams, mussels and oysters. Headquartered in Kamilche, retail store is open daily. taylorshellfish.com
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.
Traditionally held in October at Shelton Airport, the two day festival features seafood delicacies prepared by local non-profits as well as the Northwest Oyster Shucking Championship & live music.
Up to 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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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
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.
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. CREEK when tide is out, obey Excellent oyster beach. swimming in summer. from Eagle Creek Saloon.
Nice beaches for walking and exploring with summer water temperatures surprisingly warm. Restrooms, camping and picnic facilities.
Expansive beach (at low tide), picnic area, and views of the Olympics.
RENDSLAND CREEK, DNR owned clams and oysters open all year.
Gazebo, garden, play area, pier, restrooms and beach access with boat launch.
Excellent camping, swimming, kayaking, picnic sites, and shellfish harvesting.
UNION CITY MARKET
5101 E State Route 106 | Union | (360) 898-3500
Art, gifts, seafood and grocery items and seasonal cafe within a working marina.
HUNTER FARMS
921 WA-106, Union | (360) 426-2222
Direct farm to market retail includes Hood Canal oysters at the general store located on the farm.
DNR 24/GRAPEVIEW, DNR beach clams and oysters open all year. Access by boat only.
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!
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.
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
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
View more area dining at explorehoodcanal.com
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.
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.
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.
(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
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.
