Fjord | Winter 2020

WINTER 2020 ISSUE 15

MAPS • HIKES • HISTORY • COMMUNITY

so many reasons to celeBrate.

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MGH Ankle & Foot Clinic is Moving!

Your provider is moving into Mason Clinic, starting November 30, 2020.

Matt Woods, DPM Podiatry

Thank you for your patience during this transition.

For questions, call MGH Ankle & Foot Clinic at 360-426-3862. www.MasonGeneral.com • 901 Mountain View Drive, Shelton, WA 98584 • (360) 426-1611, from Allyn (360) 275-8614, Toll free (855) 880-3201, TTY/TDD (360) 427-9593. Equal Opportunity Provider • Free Translation Services Provided/Se habla

FJORD español • Mason Health does not discriminate on the basis of patient’s age, race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity2or expression, sexual orientation, religion, culture, physical or mental disability, financial status or condition (including the terminally ill or dying), limited English, visual, hearing or learning impaired.

Finding Light in the Darkest Time of the Year Rachel Hansen | Fjord editor The resilience and determination of our communities is continually remarked upon.

Neighbors helping neighbors with no expectation of anything in return. Volunteers working tirelessly to make sure that strangers have food on their tables and warmth on their backs.

While temperatures fall and finances get tighter with each passing week of the pandemic, it makes you wonder what people are doing in the "big cities." Are they taking care of each other like the people of Brinnon do? Do they rally around a community event, like a scarecrow contest, and provide over 800 votes of support? Are they gathering around restaurants and small businesses to make a point of dining out and shopping local and leaving ridiculously large tips? I hope so, but I kind of suspect that during an especially dark winter, its good to be a part of community that looks back to lift up those that are struggling.

Christmas isn't just about trees and spending too much on gifts, its about providing light when things seem the darkest. During short days and cold nights, everyone needs a little sense of warmth and good cheer.

This year, let the light shine just a little brighter, we all could use it.

As volunteers and civic groups try to hang on to local traditions and festivities within the current restrictions, take a moment to realize how important every positive effort is. Lend a hand. Offer advice not criticism.

Again, over the next 60 odd pages you still won't find an event schedule, but you will read about a community that is determined to bring light with creative Covid modified activities. You will see businesses that have pivoted to provide safe shopping opportunities and restaurants that have valiantly kept their doors open to keep their staff working during Christmas. All serving to remind us how important our Fjord communities are.

And get outside! This fall our family bought "new to us" ocean kayaks at a university auction in Oregon. Although we stare out on the water daily, nothing beats

actually getting on the water.

You gain an entirely different perspective and awareness of the beauty around you.

I can't wait for a daytime tide to try Craig Romano's featured hike this issue. See page 36 for his sandbar trek to McMicken Island off Harstine.

You don't need to be socially distant to be physically distant.

Get involved by gathering the family (and a whole lot of candy) to enter the Gingerbread Challenge. Explore the Christmas Tree Maze and write messages on oyster shells in the Christmas forest. Visit the beach and harvest oysters. Wherever you find your joy, let in the light.

Thanks for your continued support of this magazine.

nwevent.org

ISSUE 15 | VOLUME 4

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

Cover Photo

Photographers Amy & Forrest Cooper capture the 2019 Christmas parade in Shelton.

SHOP LOCAL

GINGERBREAD DREAMS

MCMICKEN ISLAND HIKE

Look local to fill your holiday wishes – 5

Everything you needed to know – 21

Cross the tidal bridge to this fun island – 36

CHRISTMASTOWN 2020

BIRDS OF A FEATHER

FIVE NORTHWEST PAINTINGS

Christmas isn't canceled – 15

3 Hood

a birders tour of south Canal – 26 Worthington Manor displays works – 61FJORD

'Tis the Season

to Shop Local!1

You’ve heard it all before. Shop local. Help a neighbor. Support small business. Trite as it may sound it is even more important than ever before.

Covid has been very hard on the life blood of our small towns.

Confession first. I admit I am one of the worst offenders. It is so easy to cozy by the fire with a cup of tea and my laptop, and get shopping. However, this year I am making every effort to consciously think about each purchase and see if I can't first find it locally.

I love our small towns. I have traveled the world and little is more satisfying than losing a couple hours on a sunny summer day in Port Gamble or Hoodsport exploring shelves of treasures with my daughter, Charlotte – and then finding ourselves in a cafe for lunch or coffee. Next summer I want those stores to still be there. That means I will have to put a little effort into my list this year. Chances are, Christmas shopping will prove to be more fun than a manic battle to beat shipping fees and deadlines and decipher online codes.

To help you with this challenge we've reached out in the community and asked around to find what we love about our local shops. We also reached out to see what else was "in store," and how each store is adapting to the pandemic with curbside, delivery, or updated hours.

This well equipped town is a great place to stock up on staples and grab a meal.

Check out the quaint shops that line Railroad Ave in the center of town but don’t miss the outlying treasures on Olympic Hwy (new town).

Annie's Quilt Shoppe 2505 Olympic Hwy N #220 (360) 427-6164 Why we love them: Is there a sewer or quilter on your list? Annie's carries a huge selection of beautiful fabrics. What they offer: Heirloom quality fabrics and notions for quilters and extensive product selection also includes a wide range of kits, books, patterns, tools, and sample quilts. Curbside or Delivery? Tuesday - Saturday 10 AM - 5 PM. Order by phone and pick up curbside. anniesquiltshoppe.com

Bobland * Vinyl & Audio 123 W Railroad Ave | (206) 383-8645 Why we love them: Great selection with constantly updated stock. Fun store, good

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quality, fair pricing and definitely worth checking out! What they offer: Vintage records, tuners, turntables, amps and speakers bought & sold. Curbside or Delivery? In store shopping.

Builders FirstSource 114 E Cedar St, Shelton | (360) 426-2611 Why we love them: Okay, not typically what you would call a “gift” shop – but I can think of a lot on my list that would dig a new Dewalt.

What they offer: Selection of high-quality building materials and hardware – from foundation to roofing. Curbside or Delivery? Open daily for in-store shopping and curbside pick up. Also provide delivery.

Cota Street Antiques 328 W Cota St. | (360) 358-8387 Why we love them: If you are looking for reasonable antique furniture this shop is worth the visit. We especially were drawn to the salvaged stain glass windows starting at $25.

What they offer: Antiques found at auctions, antique fairs; and trade warehouses throughout England and shipped directly to the furniture showroom in Shelton. Curbside or Delivery? Open Thursday through Saturday 10-5 PM; Sunday 12-5 PM for in store shopping. cotastreet.com

Authorized Dealer

Cabinets, Doors & Millwork

Cove Crystals • Rocks & Minerals 510 SE Old Arcadia Rd | 360-426-8111 Why we love them: If you like rocks and crystals you should plan a visit to this treasure outside of Shelton. What they offer: For over 30 years, this magical shop has been filled with beautiful crystals and minerals. Thousands of specimens and unique pieces. Curbside or Delivery? Store open Tuesday - Saturday 11 AM- 6 PM Sunday 11AM - 5 PM. covecrystals.com

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

Visit our gallery online at: ommco.net

Creekside Antiques 209 W Railroad Ave | (360) 490-0376 Why we love them: Some great finds and collectibles in this shop.

What they offer: Antiques, gold & silver jewelry, coins, vintage & antique furniture, Native American pieces, and other items. Curbside or Delivery? In store only, 10:30 AM - 5 PM except Sunday.

We Make Good Impressions

Frontier Antiques 315 S 1st St, Shelton | (360) 701-0250 Why we love them: Plenty of unique one of a kind items. What they offer: Antiques and collectibles Curbside or Delivery? Open 11:15 AM–5 PM, Closed Sunday.

CUSTOM APPAREL AND GIFTS!

Garage Sale Maniacs

122 W Cota St, Shelton | (360) 239-8472 Why we love them: Fun place to look around with lots of variety from book and records to fishing gear, maps, furniture, toys, and even fur coats. What they offer: Shelton's year round indoor garage sale. Tools, furniture, books, Antiques, collectibles, bedding, housewares, appliances, electronics, dvd's, vinyl records, jewelry, and a whole lot more.

Curbside or Delivery? In store shopping only, open Thursday - Saturday 11 AM - 5 PM.

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

CHECK OUT OUR NEW CUSTOM GIFTS & CLOTHING!

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Ish PNW George Stenberg Photography presents the annual Hood Canal

2021 Calendar

221 W Railroad Avenue | (360) 349-5468 Why we love them: The 'In Shelton Homes' has hand-crafted stock changing daily. Sharon and a team of elves work hard to source unique items at great prices.

What they offer: Gifts in a collaboration of local crafts, artists and goods.

Curbside or Delivery? No delivery but shopping appointments available. Sharon posts images of her latest items regularly on Facebook, so let her know if there is something you would like to arrange.

Lynch Creek Wreaths

$25/ea (includes shipping).

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

Makes a great gift!

December 5-20

Why we love them: Send something beautiful, comforting, strong and fragrant — a little piece of our beautiful Mason County - to family and friends. Shipped FREE in a beautiful red gift box, they make the perfect gifts. What they offer: Live holiday decorations shipped across America. Wreaths, centerpieces, and garlands overflow with noble fir, cedar, white pine and juniper. Curbside or Delivery? FREE delivery from lynchcreekwreaths.com or call toll free: (888) 426-078.

The Modern Farmhouse 21 E Forest Estates | (360) 426-0869 Why we love them: Everywhere you look there are fabulous finds! What they offer: Modern, vintage and unique holiday décor and gifts that give shoppers the opportunity to find something special for everyone on their lists.

Curbside or Delivery?

Up to six in the store at one time– Saturdays 11 AM - 4 PM, Sundays 12 3 PM. Shop themodernfarmhouse.net.

Nifty Thrifty Thrift Store

Sign up for FREE holiday craft projects for the whole family! christmastownwa.org

826 W Railroad Ave | (360) 427-0858 Why we love them: The books section is my favorite place to start in this very full store with excellent prices. They also have a great collectible section. What they offer: "A non-profit thrift store offering donated goods at fair and reasonable prices. Operated mostly with volunteers. Curbside or Delivery? Open 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM every day except Sunday.

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ISH PNW loves doing gift baskets. Need a special gift for someone but maybe you don't love to shop or just don't have time? Don't worry,they've you covered!

Call (360) 349-5468 and tell them what you are looking for.

Northwest Clothing Co. 112 W Alder St, Shelton | (360) 462-0490 Why we love them: I went in here a couple weeks ago with my daughter and her friend and there were things they loved and items I couldn’t live without. In a town devoid of cute women’s clothing, this store fills the bill with great outfits, delicious candles and wonderful accessories. Items for men, babies, and kids too. What they offer: Northwest Clothing Co is a trendy, yet affordable women's clothing store with a variety of styles & extended sizes.

Curbside or Delivery?

Shop in store 11 AM - 6 PM Tuesday to Saturday and 12 - 4 PM Sunday.

They also have a great website with items that can be shipped to your home. northwestclothingco.com.

Olympic Mountain Millwork 822 E Hiawatha Blvd | (360) 432-2992 Why we love them: Fantastic workmanship. Nothing says "I love you" like a new door or kitchen cabinets. What they offer: Prefinished and paint grade millwork packages, interior and exterior doors and cabinets for every room in your home.

Curbside or Delivery? Showroom is closed due to COVID. They continue to provide services via phone and/or email for the time being. www.ommco.net

Owl In The Attic 327 W Railroad Ave | (360) 871-0382 Why we love them: This tiny little shop is big on interesting finds. What they offer: Antiques and collectibles. Curbside or Delivery? Open in store Wednesday through Friday 11 AM - 4 PM.

Riverdance Soapworks

Hope you have a Happy Holiday Season Shelton Music 415 West Railroad Ave | (360) 358-8298 Why we love them: Step inside and enjoy some small town hospitality with a group who love music! What they offer: Buy, sell, consign, new and used guitars, keyboards, drums, accessories, amplifiers, violins, ukuleles, strings, bags, sticks, percussion, lamps, lights, stands, sheet paper, tuners, and other music instruments. Curbside or Delivery? In store shopping or visit their website if you are looking for something in particular. sheltonmusicllc.com

Shelton Outfitters 707 Cascade Ave | (360) 426-3359.

Why we love them: Warm and cozy items for everyone on your list. For kids this is the great place to make their Christmas gift money go a long way. Big and tall sizes too.

What they offer: Men's clothing and work wear, women's clothing, children's clothing, shoes, work boots, and much more.

Curbside or Delivery? Shopping in store only but there is plenty of room between aisles.

Open daily.

Photo:KLAAS IMAGES

790 E Johns Prairie Rd | (360) 427-7811 Why we love them: Luxurious, handcrafted bath and body products made in Shelton. What they offer: "True Soap," wholesale soap products, whipped shea body butters, handmade lip balms, herbal deodorant and colorful bath bombs.

Curbside or Delivery? Order through their website online; currently amazing discounts in a year end sale. riverdancesoapworks.com

We are very thankful for the wonderful people and businesses in this extended community. The unique abundance of food and activities in this pristine area make it a great place to live.

Jim and Bruce Munn, the Munn Bro’s, specialize in beautiful waterfront homes and forested land on the west side of the Hood Canal.

Let us be your guides for Hood Canal properties.

294843 Highway 101 Quilcene WA

360-301-4700 Jim Cell 360-301-4026 Bruce Cell

Stop by for free tide books, maps, and experienced knowledge on real estate in the Hood Canal area.

Contact us about auto notification of new listings for your dream property. Available weekends, just call.

munnbros.com

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Big Chief Smoker

$139.99 *

  ��  � �  ­  €‚

FJORD

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The Shopper

Tozier Bros.

2505 Olympic Hwy N | (360) 426-4677 Why we love them: DESIGN the perfect personalized gift – variety is limited only by your imagination. Overwhelmed? No worries, the staff at the Shopper are really nice too. They can help you pick perfect unique gifts for those hard-to-shop-for people and you can be assured that the price will be reasonable and the quality great.

What they offer: Full service print shop including business cards, forms, banners, promotional items, custom logo shirts, hats, cups anything you could ask for.

They also sell office supplies, spa supplies.

Curbside or Delivery? Yes, as well as in store (not open weekends) call (360) 4264677 to discuss options.

110 Mill St, Shelton, WA 98584 Why we love them: Great place to pick up your tree and find the perfect gift for dad or granddad. They also stock a selection of quality kids toys, bird feeders, and hard to find items for gardeners. The ultimate gift? Stop in and see Art for a new Kubota tractor to put under the tree. What they offer: A fantastic selection of plants (and live Christmas trees), tractors, hardware, building supplies, and household goods.

Curbside or Delivery? Yes, curbside pick up and delivery available. (360) 868-4352 Monday - Saturday: 8 AM - 5 PM, Sunday 9 AM - 4 PM.

Skipworth's Saw Shop LLC 1603 Olympic Hwy N | (360) 426-0875 Why we love them: Local Stihl dealer with great service, and work gear. Great customer service and quality. What they offer: Sell and service Stihl Power Equipment. They also stock work wear including Grundens raingear, shoes, boots, and jeans etc. They have a good selection of climbing gear and also have Alaskan saw mills and ripping chain. Curbside or Delivery?

Open Tuesday through Friday 8:30 AM -5:30 PM, Saturday 8:30 AM - 4 PM

Some R 4 U Antiques & Collectibles 321 W Railroad Ave | (360) 549-6860 Why we love them: Clean and well organized with a great selection at reasonable prices — “some might even say the prices are a steal." What they offer: Antiques and collectibles. Bright and cheerful store.

Curbside or Delivery? In store only, open Thursday through Sunday, 11 AM - 5 PM.

Tractor Supply Co. 2001 N US- Hwy 101 | (360) 432-5900 Why we love them: Need a gift for the dog or a dog lover? Or a gardener or chicken farmer? From chimney pieces to lawn equipment and horse stall accessories and bee supplies – Tractor Supply is supplied.

What they offer: Chain store with a wide variety of agricultural & livestock supplies, plus tools, work wear & boots. Curbside or Delivery? Open daily for in store pick up.

OPEN DAILY AT 10AM

myluckydogcasino.com

Urraco Coffee Co 628 W Cota St | (360) 462-5282 Why we love them: Call me crazy but a pound of Urraco or a gift certificate and you’ve got me covered. Delicious coffee and friendly people. What they offer: Locally roasted coffee. Curbside or Delivery?

Drive though available daily. Coffee by the pound, gift certificates and great drinks– what’s not to love?

Williams Flowers & Gifts 331 W. Railroad Ave | (360) 426-8615 Why we love them: In addition to flowers, they carry a selection of plants, gourmet baskets and gifts, themed for different occasions. To top it off they have gelato! What they offer: A family owned and operated florist originally called Lynch Creek Floral, but renamed in honor of their family name, William. Curbside or Delivery? Gift store open at 10:30 AM Monday through Saturday, delivery available (360) 426-8615.

Verle's Sporting Goods 741 W Golden Pheasant Rd (360) 426-0933 Why we love them: If you have anyone on your list that enjoys the great outdoors – your first stop should be at Verle’s. Not only will they have what you need, they have the knowledge to help you pick the perfect gift. What they offer: Fishing equipment, hunting, outdoor maps and passes, huge selection of new and used boats and engines. Curbside or Delivery?

Shopping in store, open Tuesday through Saturday.

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OPEN DAILY FULL FOOD + BEVERAGE MENU NOW AVAILABLE

REP THE NORTHWEST WITH REGIONAL GEAR.

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

FJORD

HOODSPORT & AREA on Hood Canal

SHOP LOCAL

Hoodsport was first settled by ship captain Robbins who logged and farmed this area. Today, his legacy lives on in Hama Hama Oyster Company, owned by his descendants, and an obligatory stop on any oyster lover's journey.

Hama Hama Farm Store

The Hardware Distillery

35846 N US Hwy 101, Lilliwaup Why we love them: Quintessentially Hood Canal. We love to shop here for shore and foodie inspired gifts, snacks — and lets not forget the oysters. As a gift, everyone appreciates a cozy Hama hoodie with the signature bridge logo. Travel the world and all who recognizes it will express oyster kinship. Oh BTW, their oysters ship FREE in Washington! What they offer: Lively, rustic seafood spot with picnic tables doling out oysters & clams amid waterfront views.

Curbside or Delivery? Open daily 9:30 AM- 5:30 PM. Gift shop is take out but point and they’’ll help you out. Full service online shop, hamahamaoysters.com.

24210 N US Hwy 101 | (206) 300-0877 Why we love them: What’s not to love?

The moment you walk through the door to soak in the rich aromas of the distillery — you know you have come to “the place."

The holiday decorations are up and the shop is COVID ready for customers. In the shops there are gnomes and tree shaped bottles. At the Distillery, cocktail kits are available for your one-stop shopping.

What they offer: Craft Distillery has outdoor tastings with heaters, award winning handcrafted spirits with sustainably sourced ingredients. Curbside or Delivery?

Curbside service, call for hours and details. hardwaredistillery.com

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Hoodsport Coffee Company 24240 N US Hwy 101 Why we love them: They have fantastic coffee that makes a great gift. Pick up a few pounds to take home or purchase an always appropriate gift card. What they offer: They are a full-service coffee shop and one of the only locations in the area that offers Nitro Cold Brew coffee. Known for serving Olympic Mountain Ice Cream, they also provide savory and fresh sandwiches, paninis, soups, and salads. Curbside or Delivery? Full service take out window during COVID. Open daily 6 AM -5 PM hoodsportcoffee.com

Hood Canal Grocery 24151 N US Hwy 101 Why we love them: One stop shopping —grocery, gas, snacks and shop the Ace Hardware for gifts and stocking stuffers!

What they offer: Recently opening their hardware section this store is a convenient and centrally located in Hoodsport.

Curbside or Delivery? Open Daily, Mon - Fri 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM, Sat 7:00 AM 10:00PM, Sun 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Hoodsport Winery 23501 N US Hwy 101 | (360) 877-9894 Why we love them: Wines are available with pricing starting at $30 per bottle and honoring discounts up to 50% based on volume. Visit their website for a 20% coupon for your next visit. What they offer: Hoodsport Winery has available fruit and berry wines, Island Belle, Cabernets, Syrah, and Sangiovese as well as wines from their partners – Wilimette Valley Vineyard –Gewutztraminer, Early Muscat, Mulleur, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noira. They also carry a line of hand crafted ciders, Raspberry Ginger, Rhubarb and Cranberry Mead.

Curbside or Delivery? Hoodsport Winery remains open during COVID. The winery is available daily for phone orders and pick up. hoodsport.com

Laurie's Gift and Liquor 24230 N US Hwy 101 | (360) 877-5252 Why we love them: You don't have to be a tourist to enjoy the incredible selection of souvenirs at Laurie's Hoodsport Gift & Liquor. What they offer: A lot of one of a kind items. They carry a great selection of home decor, books, cards, lotions and unique items to make the perfect gift or wine basket! Curbside or Delivery? Open every day.

Lilliwaup Store 28621 N US Hwy 101| (360) 877-0001 Why we love them: If nothing else, stop by to enjoy the $3 giant scoop of Olympic Mountain Ice Cream — you may find a few unique treasures as well. What they offer: Full service groceries, sundries, snacks and gift items. Curbside or Delivery?

Open daily 8 AM -6 PM

Octopus Garden 24180 N US Hwy 101 | (360) 877-5530.

Why we love them: Husband and wife (Tim and Lucy) owners selling customized jewelry and water paintings and decorative items. I love their marine inspired hand crafted silver earrings and pendants - one of a kind and reasonably priced. What they offer: Jewelry repair, watch batteries, fine jewelry, beaded jewelry, watercolor prints, cards, magnets, glass, turned wood and home decor. Curbside or Delivery? Open 10 AM to 5 PM daily except closed Monday and Tuesday. Call for COVID changes or curbside.

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D E I R S A T I W L L D E R R A Y H ® C E O .

TH Spirit-Filled Gnomes & Trees for the Holidays • Call for Outside Tastings 206-300-0877 • hardwaredistillery.com • 24210 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport, WA Stottle Winery 24180 N US Hwy 101, Suite B Why we love them: Now through December 14th they are offering some fantastic discounts on wine & merchandise.

“Enjoy Washington wines handcrafted with passion and character at Stottle Winery & Tasting Room.” Stottle makes a great gift for everyone on your list. What they offer: Founded by Amy and Josh Stottlemyer, Stottle Winery was established through a passion for wine. In addition to their main tasting room at the winery in Lacey, Stottle also have a tasting room in Hoodsport.

Their hand-crafted wines are the culmination of a journey from grape to bottle. Each wine in the collection is an expression of the earth from which the vine was grown; the careful guidance of the grower, and the gentle hand of the winemaker. Curbside or Delivery? Stop by their tasting room in Hoodsport; they are currently open Fri – Sun 11 AM – 5 PM. Be sure to check website for updates to hours, stottlewinery.com.

What they offer: YSS Dive offers quality PADI Scuba Diving certifications, Discover Scuba Diving for beginners, and guided tours for certified Divers. No matter the experience level, you will be welcome, located right on Hood Canal in the town of Hoodsport, WA They also have a full service dive shop. Curbside or Delivery? Open daily 9 AM - 6 PM, call for COVID changes or curbside.

YSS Dive 24080 N US Hwy 101 | (360) 877-2318 Why we love them: The perfect gift for the non-scuba diver? Scuba lessons! The perfect gift for a scuba diver? Well, everything in the store. They carry all the latest tech in their shop.

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SupporT North mason restaurants and win!

To help our local restaurants during these uncertain times, North Mason Chamber of Commerce wants to encourage the community to Eat Local!

Spend a minimum of $15 at 4 different North Mason participating restaurants, and enter for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate!

(Businesses can then be redeemed by the Chamber.)

Participating Restaurants: Gift Certificates must be redeemed at an Eat Local -Win Local participating restaurant or any Shop Local participating business: The purpose of Eat Local – Win Local is to help restaurants in North Mason stay in business during this difficult time created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Due to another round of restrictions on dining, local restaurants have shifted back to takeout, curbside, and delivery in order to keep serving our residents. However, many restaurants are still struggling to keep their businesses open and pay bills and employees.

The North Mason Chamber of Commerce thanks you for doing your part to keep our restaurants open. Stay Safe North Mason.

Entry Requirements:

• Eat Local!

• Send a picture of four (4) receipts from four (4) different participating restaurants to vanessa@northmasonchamber.com (all four must be in one email).

• Restaurant name, date and total must be visible on receipt image.

• Total on each receipt must be at least $15.

• Include your name and phone number in your email entry.

• Receipts must be dated between November 16 and December 31, 2020 •Drawing for a $25 gift certificate will be held weekly until 12/21/2020

northmasonchamber.com

2 Margaritas Union: (360) 898-2462 The Bistro at Lakeland Village: (360) 277-4137 The Boat House: (360) 275-6060 Burger Claim and More: (360) 277-5141 Casey's Bar and Grille: (360) 275-6929 The Clubhouse at Alderbrook: (360) 898-2560 Doos Donuts: (360) 591-8126 El Sombrero: (360) 275-0700 Family Wok & Teriyaki: (360) 277-3000 Los Agaves: (360) 552-2377 Model T Pub & Eatery: (360) 877-9883 Nina's Lake Cushman Cafe: (360) 877-9000 Restaurant at Alderbrook: (360) 898-5500 Rice Bowl: (360) 275-2302 Seabeck Pizza: (360) 275-2657 Spencer Lake Bar & Grill: (360) 426-2505 Teriyaki Wok: (360) 275-1111 The Tides Family Restaurant: (360) 877-8921 Union Square Deli: (360) 898-3354 Woodshed Bar and Grill: (360) 275-1222

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ARTS ON THE HOOD

SHOP LOCAL

Originally settled in 1893 with the construction of a hotel, wharf, sawmill, and store, the area was heralded as the ultimate destination for wealthy families in the Northwest. Centered around many resorts rooted in the natural beauty of the site, the establishment of a rich artistic heritage followed in the 1920's. Union holds the title of the first non-native artist colony in Washington state.

Cameo Boutique & Wine Shop 6871 E SR- 106 | (360) 898-3200 Why we love them: A unique and inspired selection of fun gifts for your mother, sister, best friend – and if all else fails, check out their great selection of wine! What they offer: A unique shopping experience with a nautical focus featuring women's clothing and accessories, resort wear, jewelry, children's gifts, fine home furnishings, greeting cards, and wines from around the world Curbside or Delivery? No, but great selection of items on their website to preview.

Located just a short walk from Alderbrook Resort & Spa on Hood Canal.

Hunter Farms 1921 E State Route 106 | 360-898-2222 Why we love them: You can find a wide assortment of vegetables, and local food as well as Olympic Mountain ice cream, and many local Washington gifts! What they offer: Trees grown on site, hand picked and cut with your home in mind.

Sheared or unsheared, sizes from table top to a grand 20 feet tall. Pre-cut trees are cut everyday for optimum freshness. Curbside or Delivery? Shop in store, open daily.

Kari’s Collectibles 4941 E SR-106 | (360) 898-0277 Why we love them: A treasure hunt of collectibles, antiques, jewelry, art, and more. What they offer: A lot of one of a kind items. Jewelry, antique bottles, coins, rusty gold, golf clubs. Native art. Etc. Curbside or Delivery? Open every day.

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Union City Market 5101 E SR 106 | (360) 898-3500 Why we love them: This adorable beach shop has everything you could possibly need to make a sumptuous gourmet gift.

Every item is carefully curated - from the handmade beach glass decor to the full size wall paintings. Or the jar of jelly.

What they offer: Snacks, art, gifts and specialty grocery items located on Hood Canal within a working marina. Curbside or Delivery? Take the time to explore the store and enjoy brunch. Open 10 - 6 PM Tuesday- Saturday. unioncitymarket.com

Christmas isn’t 1 Canceled in Christmastown.

All around us we see decorations limping into yards and windows as they defiantly defy the unwritten rule of waiting until after Thanksgiving. We can certainly expect come Nov 27, many neighborhoods will be visible from space. Families all over are desperate to celebrate the holidays – well, celebrate anything for that matter.

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Cooper StudiosFJORD Photo

The pandemic has put the kibosh on nearly everyone’s Christmas plans, canceling community events, visits to family, vacations and everything in between. But there’s one little timber town just off Hood Canal that is hanging onto tradition despite the challenges.

Cooper Studios Photo

Shelton is typically branded as a logging community. The main street, Railroad Avenue, was built wide to accommodate logging trucks heading to the mill. Yet trees weren’t just cut to make lumber, Shelton is also known as “Christmastown, USA – the Christmas Tree Capital of the World.”

Shelton’s win was recorded December 7 during the annual Santa Claus parade with a total of 797 qualified trees. The trees were arranged in a lighted maze that families could explore along with holiday activities over “12 Days of Christmas.” the one-way maze free of charge. The maze is best viewed at night with thousands upon thousands of lights that make every festive family picture twinkle. Be sure to visit Santa’s Evergreen Forest and roast a marshmallow on the family fire pits or write a message on an oyster shell to hang on one of the giant nobles that have been “planted” in the forest.

Mason County trees loaded for delivery.

Credit: Forest Service Image In 1918, mill manager, G.R. Kirk, received word from his brother-in-law in Texas requesting a train car full of wild-cut Douglas-fir trees for Christmas. Initially doubtful, Kirk sent the trees and was surprised to receive an order for two loads the next year.

Instead he cut three carloads and headed to Los Angeles to sell them himself. He never went back to milling. Over the next seven decades local foresters honed their harvesting skills and, with the rich scent of fir pitch hanging in the air from November on, Shelton earned it’s Christmas Tree Capital title.

How do you top a Guinness Record in the midst of a pandemic? This year the town has rallied to create a series of COVID-safe activities that will insure the Christmas spirit is still alive and well in Christmastown. Forced to cancel large gatherings like the annual parade and tree lighting ceremony, volunteers have created a series of unique activities.

Last December Shelton took Christmas head on by celebrating their Christmastown distinction with a successful attempt On First Street you cannot miss the giant at the Guinness World Record for “Most Christmas tree maze, a tribute to the 2019 Lit Christmas Trees” in one location. The Guinness World Record win. Open daily previous record was set by the Hallmark through December, families can wander FJORD 16 Channel in 2015 (559 trees).

Weekends in December Christmastown will also feature an outdoor Christmas market, online crafting sessions, a gingerbread challenge and festive dinner wagon rides to view the lights. The wagon will feature two partitioned dining areas for up to five guests and include music, hot chocolate, dinner served on board from one of an area restaurants and a tour of the lights.

Dress warmly, bring your own blanket or purchase a souvenir stadium fleece blanket online with your dinner tickets.

Travel down Railroad Avenue for a spectacular display of Christmas cheer. Retro decorations and lights line the shopfronts and, new this year, pass under live cedar garland and cafe lights swooping across the street as you spy the giant Christmas tree in Post Office Park. Nearby, don’t forget to get a family picture with the historic caboose and engine decked with lights and garland.

In 2019 Shelton celebrated their Christmastown distinction with a successful attempt at the Guinness World Record for “Most Lit Christmas Trees” in one location. The 800+ trees were arranged in a giant maze. The 2020 tribute Christmas tree maze, consisting of one giant tree, will be located on 1st Street in Shelton throughout December.

Pictures with the largest Santa in Washington can be found in Overlook Park, a scenic pull out overlooking a view of the Olympic Mountains and Oakland Bay. The 32’ Santa Claus billboard is complete with a staircase at the back so children can peer through the doll’s head in the quintessential holiday selfie.

At the age of 66, Shelton sign painter, Clarence Beauchamp, was commissioned by the Shelton Chamber to design and build a 32' Santa Claus to commemorate Christmastown, U.S.A during the 1962 Seattle's World Fair. Built in four 16' panels, the giant structure required the help of multiple crews and boom trucks to erect. The current 32' Santa Claus is located on Hwy 3 near the entrance to Shelton, at Outlook Park. Park at the Lookout and be sure to climb the stairs to put your head through the doll cut out in Santa's bag.

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The Christmas Tree Capital of the World In the wake of Hood Canal’s timber boom it was discovered that the glacial till left after the fjord was carved was ideal ground for growing Douglas fir Christmas trees.

During the 1950s and 1960s, the area annually harvested several million, earning it the title as “Christmas Tree Capital of the World.”

Local u-cut and pre-cut farms around Hood Canal continue to “Keep it Real” by producing some of the finest Nobles, Grands, Frasers as well as Douglas Firs.

Northwest growers claim that real trees help the environment and are recyclable and biodegradable while artificial trees will eventually end in a landfill.

Annually many families head to local farms to select their favorite and enjoy holiday activities like hayrides, petting zoos and visits with Santa. There’s hardly anything that’s more quintessentially Christmas than decorating a handpicked Pacific Northwest Christmas tree and gathering your fami-

ly around a tree that you brought home together from Hood Canal.

Before you go:

ALWAYS call the farm or store BEFORE YOU GO to confirm their supply, their hours and whether they have trees, are allowing choose-and-cut or just precut trees; and which attractions or winter activities are available. All three can change, due to weather, demand and the farmer's business conditions! Since the season is so short they often don’t have websites, so please check before you go!

Choose the Perfect Tree Make it a family tradition to cut your own or carefully select a pre-cut beauty from the Hood Canal area. Head into the forest to select your own or visit one of the farms we have included below.

Brewers Tree Farm

2382 W. Deegan Rd. W., Shelton U -Cut trees (or they cut if you need help) Open on a weekend to weekend basis due to limited trees. (360) 426-4936

Bayview Tree Farm

4673 E State Route 302, Belfair While you sip your hot beverage and warm up check out the wreaths and selection of handmade Christmas decor. (360) 275-3790

Northwind Tree Farm Tree Days 2020

December 5-6 | Any tree $25.

3601 E Agate Rd., Shelton Bring your face masks, saw and a donation for the food bank. Social distancing required.

(360) 426-5593

Hunter Farms

1921 E State Route 106, Union Family owned, seasonal crops, gift shop at main location as well as farm store and petting zoo! (360) 426-2222 Two locations: California Road off Highway 101 — follow signs - U-cut is open on the weekends.

General Store — 1921 E Hwy 106, Union, WA Pre-cut and u-cut trees as well as gifts.

Toziers Hardware

110 Mill Street, Shelton, WA Hours of Operation Monday - Saturday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM | Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Pre-cut Douglas firs and nobles; live trees, lights, decorations. (360) 868-4352 |

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A Griswald Family

CHRISTMAS Dreaming of heading to the forest and cutting your own? It’s time to begin a new family tradition! Hood Canal trees are so fantastic that in 2006 a 45 year old Fraser fir was selected from the Olympic National Forest to be the Capitol Christmas Tree and the White House has selected no less than two trees from the area for the presidential families.

Olympic Forest Permits are $5.00 each and are good for one U-cut tree on the Olympic National Forest. Permits may be purchased at any Olympic National Forest office or online.

There are plenty to choose from and the selective picking allows other trees in the forest room for healthy growth. Permits for cutting Christmas trees in the Olympic National Forest are available in November — and fourth-graders can get them free.

Visit fs.usda.gov/main/olympic/passes-permits/ forest products for more information.

Christmastown and tree farm events and hours are subject to change without notice so always check before you go. All guests & volunteers are required to follow COVID-19 CDC guidelines, if you are feeling ill, please visit another time.

Questions about lodging, things to do, shopping, crafting kits to take home? Call the Christmastown concierge at (866) 922-7469 or visit christmastownwa.org

National Forest Christmas tree Permits www.recreation.gov/tree-permits

Checklist for a ONF Tree Hunt Purchase $5 Permit(s) in advance at Forest Offices in Quilcene, Olympia or Hoodsport or online at www.recreation.gov/tree-permits Be sure to be on Forest Service land. Know before you go.

Trees may be cut along roads, from forest plantations and in the understory of older stands.

Cut trees only if there is a standing tree within 10 feet to avoid denuding areas.

Do not cut trees within 100 feet of campgrounds or trailheads.

Any evergreen are available for cutting except Western White Pine.

Tree Height: 15 feet maximum Do not remove the top of the tree; cut down the entire tree

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Presented by

Kristmas Town Kiwanis and Northwest Event Organizers

Thank you!

Partnering with

Best gifts are made with love

City of Shelton Mason County | explorehoodcanal.com Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce Tracing the Fjord Toziers Bros. | Ace Hardware Shelton Downtown Merchants Mason PUD #3 Hiawatha Evergreens Cooper Studios John L. Scott Real Estate Green Diamond Company Sierra Pacific Industries

Mom and Dad are right. The best gifts are the ones you make.

But it’s good to have a little help. At the 2019 Christmastown event there were some amazing gifts to make and take home.

We’re not exaggerating. It goes back to the amazing volunteers.

Like Lisa who creates the Fun Stuff Crafts blog; or Kristen and Mason, a mother/son team, who designed the snowy scene ornament. The glitter was a-flying! Another favorite was Rene and his family who helped build fragrant swags and centerpieces.

Gingerbread Level Sponsors

Bowers Dental Group Martha Reed Foundation Windermere Real Estate

The current pandemic has created a lot of new challenges.

Last year's event hosted drop-in activities, live music and Santa Claus. Those were the days.

Star Level Sponsors

EI. Kristyn & Son Construction Shelton Rotary The Hardware Distillery

Tree Topper Sponsor

Dominos Pizza Floors N More Hillcrest Shell Station Vickie Meadows & Chris Veblen Law Office of Eric Valley Our Community Credit Union The Renecker Family Residential Construction Services, LLC Shelton Yacht Club Smoking Mo's FJORD Verle's LLC

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In 2020 volunteers are creating craft workshops with virtual sign-up for those to join in from the comfort of their homes. Dubbed the "12 Days of Crafts," the craft kits will be available to take home. Register online and pick up the kits at the Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce office on Railroad Ave the week of the scheduled craft, or at the Christmas town event site on 1st Street the weekend before.

Join in on the live live workshop 20 or watch the recording.

Crafts include: Oyster Shell Ring Dish, Forest Snow Globe, 2020 Christmastown Ornament ('Christmas Isn't Canceled'), Rustic String Ornament, Gnomes, Tag Ornament, Painted Lines Canvas, Wooden Block Ornament, Light Parade Wooden Boat, Wooden Shepard Hook Book Marks, Oyster Santa Claus, Pizza Pan Chalkboard, and Felt Christmas Tree Ornaments.

Visit christmastownwa.org to learn more. Space is limited so don’t miss out!

Stella Wenstob | Story & pictures

Start a Holiday

Gingerbread Tradition 1

Warm smells of cinnamon, ginger, cardamon, and all-spice waft from the cozy home, encrusted with candy and icicles made of sugar. A flat gingerbread man stands stiffly outside sporting gumdrop buttons and an icing smile. The holiday season is filled with special flavors.

Gingerbread houses and their catastrophic collapse are some of our most hallowed memories as children. We could not wait to demolish our architectural masterpieces after Christmas and break our teeth on the now stale candy. Hmmm…looking back, maybe it was more about the candy than the actual gingerbread?

Gingerbread Origins Forms of gingerbread have been associated with holiday making in the Eastern and Western world from at least 999 AD. Popular at fairs and served to royalty, gingerbread and its relatives were associated with wealth and the commemoration of special occasions.

Queen Elizabeth I served baked figurines to visiting personages. Dating even earlier, cakes made of ginger and honey have been found in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs.

It is unclear whether the German tradition of candy-covered gingerbread houses were inspired by or inspired the Brother’s Grimm fairy-tale of Hansel and Gretel – either way the two are forever linked.

The earliest written record of the plant is from Confucius, who purportedly ate it with every meal. It was one of the first spices to be transported out of Asia with the spice trade and was quickly adopted by the Greeks and Romans. Consequently, its use and association with breads and cookies are diverse and expansive. From loaflike cakes, breads, hard-brittle biscuits, and cookies cut or moulded into intricate shapes, nearly every Western (and Eastern) country has a specific ginger treat associated with holiday making.

Perfect Gingerbread The perfect recipe for a structurally sound gingerbread house is equally various. Do you use molasses, honey, treacle, or golden syrup? Brown sugar or white? Which spices do you use? What leavening agent? Eggs or no eggs? I haven’t even considered the icing!

Yesterday, I tried my great-grandmother’s recipe. Passed down to my grandmother from her mother-in-law and written in her perfect grammar school cursive on classic note cards taken from her carefully curated recipe box, this is a dipping biscuit recipe (known in America as a “cookie”).

According to archaeologists and geneticists, ginger was first domesticated in Maritime Southeast Asia (today’s China), likely With a bit of rolling, it can easily be used by the Austronesian peoples, who later for gingerbread men and even a house ( brought it with them (as a “canoe-plant”) (if you are brave enough). in their expansion into the Indo-Pacific and

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2nd Annual

CHRISTMASTOWN Gingerbread Challenge ENTRIES

DUE:

December 7 - 11 S H E LT O N , W A $500+ IN PRIZES

Bring gingerbread creations to the Shelton Mason County Chamber at 215 W Railroad Avenue, 8 AM-5PM. Gingerbread entries will be on display in shop windows in downtown Shelton.

The entry’s major components (such as sides, roofs, etc.) must be constructed of gingerbread.

The rest of the display can be decorated with any edible material. All visible components must be edible.

Entries will be judged based on the following criteria: Overall Appearance, Originality and Creativity, Difficulty and Precision, Use of Materials.

Visit ChristmastownWA.org for full details & entry form.

SPONSORED BY

WINDERMERE REAL ESTATE AND

BOWERS DENTAL GROUP THANK YOU.

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This is a fairly simple recipe that doesn’t require a mixer, just working with your hands – my mum likened the recipe to a pastry where a light touch is necessary (as opposed to kneading bread, which requires a heavy hand to stretch the gluten).

Great-Grandma Rose’s Ginger Biscuit: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup white sugar 1/2 cup butter

4 tsp golden syrup (see note below) 4 tsp ginger 1 tsp baking soda (dissolved in 1/2 cup of hot water)

A note on the ingredients: The recipe calls for golden syrup (a very English ingredient), but this can be hard to find in North America. I experimented with substitutions, I made three different batches and in each I tried honey, treacle, and molasses (in same proportions as above). For all three I found the texture was very similar, however the flavor was much tangier with the treacle and the molasses.

Additionally, molasses or treacle give a much richer color to the dough (which I like).

INSTRUCTIONS: Rub butter into the flour and sugar by hand. Mix in syrup, ginger, and baking soda-water mix with spoon. After they are lightly mixed, lightly knead with your hands until you get a dough like texture. With a rolling pin and a scant amount of flour (just enough to avoid sticking, too much makes the dough dry), roll dough out thin and even. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters (use a glass or a jar lid to make round cookies). To make a house, print off the template (available at Christmastownwa.org) and copy it onto a piece of cardboard and then cut your dough to match. Be careful not to stretch the cut dough too much as you transfer it to the baking sheet. Place on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 – 15 minutes. Be careful not to burn. The biscuits will be a little soft when you take them out and they well harden when they cool.

Gingerbread House Tip: C U T W H E N H O T. The baking soda in this recipe makes the dough rise, so watch out for the cooked biscuit changing size from the template. Compare the cooked pieces to your template while it is still hot out of the oven, if it is too large you can use a shape knife and cut off extraneous pieces (when it is chilled it will be too brittle to allow for this).

Knowledgeable When it comes to something as important as buying or selling a home, you deserve someone by your side who knows the ins and outs of the local market.

Windermere Shelton

WINDERMERE REAL ESTATE/HIMLIE, INC.

920 W Railroad Ave Shelton, Washington 360-426-2646

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WindermereShelton.com

Holiday Dining Wagon to support local restaurants The recent shutdowns have been hard on small businesses all over. Particularly impacted are restaurants. With indoor dining suspended, local restaurants that do not have covered or heated outdoor dining space have had to rely on take out customers. There are financial grants to make it through this difficult time, but still many have been forced to shut their doors permanently.

To support and raise awareness of local restaurants, Christmastown organizers are offering dinner wagon rides on select evenings through the decorated streets of downtown, Beginning December 4, the rides provide unique holiday experiences that are compliant to WA State laws for outdoor dining.

Guests reserve their evening ride online at christmastownwa.org. The covered carriage is divided to create two separate dining “areas” that are sanitized between each ride.

Reservations include beverages and a menu choice from a different restaurant each ride (total of three restaurants each evening).

Each trip hosts two reservations for up to five guests. The wagon boards at the Christmas Tree Maze on 1st Street. Guests receive soda, water or hot chocolate. Dress warmly, bring your own blankets or purchase a Christmastown souvenir fleece for $20.

With holiday music playing, the wagon proceeds to the restaurant. Food is served curbside at the restaurant. The scenic route passes the Christmas tree and takes in the lights. Proceeds, after covering dinner costs, go to the presenting organization, Kristmas Town Kiwanis. The Kristmas Town Kiwanis Club is a non-profit in Shelton that helps children and families in the community.

Visit christmastownwa.org for availability and reservations or call 866-922-7469.

Cost is $100 for five guests including dinner and ride.

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Santa Letters Santa visits may be a little different this year, but no fear, he’s working on your Christmas wishes – and Santa & Mrs. Claus love to get letters. This year we will have a mailbox at the Christmas Tree Maze on 1st Street in Shelton. Bring by your notes but be sure to include return address on the envelop as all Santa has is chimney addresses.

If you would like your child to receive a personal card from Santa, please visit christmastownwa.org and complete the information for "Santa Letters."

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Keeping Spirits Bright Heidi McCutcheon | Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce

As what feels like the longest year ever comes to a close, the Chamber is working hard to keep the Christmas spirit alive.

After partnering last year with Northwest Event Organizers to restore our community as Christmastown, USA and earning a Guinness Book of World Records title for the most lit Christmas trees, we look forward to both new and renewed partnerships as the holiday season quickly approaches.

Don't miss this Cheer The 2020 Shelton Yacht Club Lighted Boat Parade will be held December 18 & 19. Boats will leave the marina at 6:30 PM (weather permitting) and travel down Hammersley Inlet. All boaters are welcome to join in the parade regardless if you're a yacht club member or not. The boat parade can be viewed from the club parking lot, Church Point and Walker Park. Check the yacht club website for additional viewing options.

For additional information visit sheltonyachtclub.com. Enjoy the parade.

Last year, a new group emerged on social media that strongly aligned with the identity of Christmastown called Shelton/ Mason County Christmas Lights.

The group was created to increase public awareness of the holiday spirit throughout the community and was created by the Johnston family, whose matriarch Celita is a self-admitted Christmas fanatic. “Keep your eyes open for those EXTRA neighbors and friends who have gone out of their way to infuse an extra dose of Christmas spirit here in our little Christmastown, USA via Christmas light displays or destinations,” she announced on the page. And people did. Dozens published addresses, posted photos, and shared their favorites.

Specializing in hand crafted, small batch artisan wines, Mosquito Fleet Winery in Belfair is open Saturdays 12 – 4 PM for sales and pick-up. Mosquitofleetwinery.com The Hardware Distillery in Hoodsport is offering four gift cocktail kits ($45-65) include shot glass and recipe for one stop shopping. They are even gift wrapped! Call (206) 300-0877 for details and to schedule a pick up.

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This year, the Chamber is working with the page’s moderators to create an interactive map of addresses and launch a competition of Christmas displays throughout Mason County.

Participants can choose one of three categories: commercial, residential Shelton, and residential Mason County. Competitors can sign up to vie for the title, get on the map, and receive a yard sign for just $10.

Go to https://masonchamber. com/christmastown/ and click on “Enter Christmas Lights Competition” to sign up now.

The interactive map will go live by December 1, giving you plenty of time to plan your personal Christmas lights viewing party.

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Stella Wenstob | Story

Birds of a Feather

flock together.

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–– but what do they say about Birders?

That is those strange folks who are undeniably stricken with a passion for bird identification. Stereotypically, "birders" are described as nerdy-types strapped to binoculars carrying daypacks full of bottled water, granola bars (or worse dried bananas!), odd shaped bird-call whistles and the ever-present color-coded-totally-confusing guidebook. However, nerdy is definitely cool now (I can’t say the same about the dried banana chips). And the guidebooks have transformed into featherlight apps for your phone, with intuitive displays and easily accessible information. Specially developed social sharing birder apps, such as iBird and iNaturalist, even allow you to log your sightings and thereby improve scientific understanding of that species or crowd source a particularly difficult ID to get a fellow birder’s input. Birding is much more than banana chips and the Pacific Northwest is home to some very intriguing bird species.

The Audubon Society is a great place to start if you are just dipping your webbed foot in the vast waters of birding. Their website offers a free birding app, intriguing articles on birds and birding. Audobon is supported by hundreds of local chapters (five in the Olympic-Kitsap Peninsula area) that host birding classes, walks, and events, including the longest running bird census in the world – the Christmas Bird Count.

Entering its 120th year, the Christmas Bird Count gathers information from volunteer birders across North and South America.

It was developed as a replacement for the Christmas tradition of the “side hunt” a competitive pastime amongst hunters for most game taken over the holidays.

With COVID-19 suspending many social activities, going outdoors and communing with birds is a great reason to get out of the house.

Or if the weather is just too nasty, stay in your nest and feather it with avian knowledge. There are many online courses from the Audubon Society (including interactive Zoom lectures, where you can talk to local experts) and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology (they offer pricier accredited bird identification courses, as well as plenty of solid free bird basics [not of the Lynyrd Skynyrd persuasion]).

The Washington Ornithological Society and American Birding Association offers a digital up-to-date version of A Birder’s Guide to Washington. This free volume does not help with actual identification, but provides an exhaustive list of where to find bird species and helps to plan the most productive outdoor birding adventure. As stated above, Birders are passionate nerds, and as such there are A LOT of online resources out there and many of them are tailored to the Pacific Northwest.

If you wish to venture out in this wintery weather, the Mason County is teaming with migratory and year-round resident bird species. Hit the trails and start scanning the skies, vegetation, and water ways.

Pack your binoculars, scope, digital camera, smart phone (with iBird and Audubon maps downloaded) or go old-school with note pad and pencil to record your sightings – whatever you decide to bring, make sure to wear good walking shoes and weather appropriate clothes (and maybe leave the banana chips at home).

Just about every green space, be it a back garden or a state park, holds interesting birding possibilities, but to honor the spirit of road trips and the hallowed practice of making lists, on the following pages is a list of favorite birding haunts with a short summary of the feathered friends you should meet.

Your Northwest Tradition

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alderbrookresort.com

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360.898.2145

Local Winter Birding Road Trip The Capital Land Trust Hilburn Preserve (just off Hwy 101 and west of Shelton) offers an easy 0.5 mile loop adjacent to the very active Goldsborough Creek. The wooded area is great for spotting typical Washington woodland birds such as Red-breasted Sapsucker, Hutton’s Vireo, Pacific Wren, Cedar Waxwing, and there are recent rumors (from Anders Price writing for the Black Hills Audubon Society) of an American Dipper in the Goldsborough Creek diving and bobbing for insects. This stocky, robin-sized, grey-brown bird has striking white feathers on its eyelids (obvious when it closes its eyes). It has a sweet chirping call and is America’s only diving songbird.

The creek has recently been restored with dyke removals and the presence of an American Dipper is a strong indicator of good water quality – a useful conservancy indicator (akin to the canary of old).

As you leave the Hilburn Preserve head east on Railroad Ave. through to downtown Shelton, turn left (north) on to Olympic Hwy S., then after two blocks, turn right on to Hwy 3 (E. Pine St) to take you along Oakland Bay, to the Bayshore Preserve.

Another Capital Land Trust park, Bayshore Preserve hosts the Great Washington State Birding Trail. Here natural oak savannahs border the ocean and the outflow of Johns Creek. Peregrine Falcons have been spotted here sitting in the oaks watching for rodents in the grasslands. Great Blue Herons are also partial to grassland rodents. Watch for waterfowl dipping and diving in the warmer waters of the bay.

road trip-worthy bites: Friday, Saturday, Sunday 2-6PM

10AM-3PM

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

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Next stop is the birders paradise: the Mary Theler Wetlands Nature Preserve (just outside of Belfair).

To reach it continue on Hwy 3 (destination: 22641 WA-3, Belfair, WA 98528). Situated near the end of the Hood Canal the preserve hosts 139 acres of estuarine environment on the Union River delta.

This varied landscape of marshlands, meadows and forests adjacent to the warmer waters of the Hood Canal promotes a great variety of wildlife. When COVID- 19 restrictions are lessened, the Wetlands Project Center and the native plant demonstration garden are also well worth a visit. There are five distinct trails at the Preserve, each showcasing a different habitat, and some granting wondrous views of the Southern Olympic Mountains. A favorite is the River Estuary Trail made across broken down dykes and barriers that previously held the ocean out of this historic farmland. Now river otters gambol and explore this new reaching watery world, claiming back the terrestrial shore. Belted Kingfishers loudly defend their territories and Great Blue Herons hunt.

Pools also host waterfowl, such as Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, and Common Merganser, as well as Black-bellied and Semipalmated Plovers, Killdeer, Dunlin, and Western Sandpipers, dowitchers, Wilson’s Snipe, and Bonaparte’s Gull. Bald Eagles are often seen here. Additionally, the fearsome Northern Shrike are known to winter here. This strange songbird’s main diet is insects and small mammals. It has three specially developed teeth on its beak which allow it to quickly snap the neck of its prey. Due to its practice of hanging leftover prey on thorns to keep for the next meal, the Northern Shrike has been dubbed the “butcher bird.”

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If you back track along Hwy 106 and follow Hood Canal west, Twanoh State Park offers another excellent birding experience.

With over 182 acres of forest and shoreline access, this park offers great terrestrial and marine birding opportunities. The 2.5 mile inland trail is a good place to spot Red Crossbills and Brown Creepers. Star waterfowls such as Buffleheads, Common and Barrow’s Goldeneyes, Common Loons, Western and Red-Necked Grebes, Ruddy Ducks, Scoters, Marbled Murrelets, and Greater Scaups busily bob along the water.

Keep your eyes peeled for waterfowl as you continue along Hwy106, passing through Union, now you are in the estuarine delta formed by the Skokomish River. In this area keep a look out for Bald Eagles and even more waterfowl including Mallard, Northern Pintail, Red-breasted Merganser, and flocks of American Wigeons. Merge north on to Hwy 101 and you will find yourself still traveling along the Hood Canal (more waterfowl). Along this highway there are several good birding stops including: Potlatch State Park, Lilliwaup Creek, Eagle Creek, and Jorsted Creek. The pilings of the former log dump at Jorsted Creek are roosting areas for all three varieties of Cormorants. Cormorants are diving birds that primarily eat fish. Since their feathers lack the water-repelling oils found amongst other waterfowl, Cormorants are often spotted with their wings spread out to dry in the sun.

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Current rates are subject to change. Ask for details.

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800.426.5657

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Dosewallips State Park is our last mention for this list, but there are many more birding spots along the Hood Canal. This 1000 acre park frames the Dosewallips River and is famous for herds of Roosevelt Elk and, visible from the beachfront, its curious seals. Since it covers such a large area and exemplifies very diverse ecosystems (riverine, estuary, shoreline and mature terrestrial forest) there are a large variety of birds to be encountered.

The estuary surrounding the Hamma Hamma River is also a productive birding area with a Great Blue Heron rookery nearby.

The North Tidal Trail crosses tidal marshes and offers excellent views in the winter of migrant Trumpeter swan populations.

The many Parks and Nature Preserves of the Pacific Northwest offers many exciting birding opportunities. Birds of a feather flock together, and Birders… they follow close behind. For more information on fjord birding visit explorehoodcanal.com.

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Brian Cullen |

Story

Worthington Park Awards Scarecrows The Quilcene community gathered at Worthington Park the last week of October to celebrate the fall spirit in a unique display of artful fun. This year’s third annual Scarecrow Contest provided a much needed morale boost for friends and neighbors alike as they assembled twice the number of scarecrow entries from years past.

The 18 entries came from all parts of Quilcene and sported a colorful range of costumes and characters. For the first time and to comply with COVID-19 guidelines, participants registered on-line and the community voted for their favorites posted on the Worthington Park website, worthingtonparkquilcene.org.

2nd Place Winner | photo: Jeff Childs

The contest was so popular that it brought traffic on Columbia Street to a halt with on-lookers in cars inching along to get a good look. Local students could be seen hanging out of car windows declaring, "Look! That's my scarecrow!"

The vote count was historic - surging to over 800 by the night before the vote!

While all of the entries were exceptional there were a few that garnered the highest numbers of community votes. Our 1st place winners were Crystal Manly and Jennifer Tirao. These ladies work hard every day at feeding the students of the Quilcene School District (QSD), serving-up breakfasts and lunches with a smile. They have worked tirelessly to overcome the challenges the pandemic has posed to their meal delivery efforts; delivering to our students in the school building as well as coordinating, preparing and transporting meals to remote learning students. Their tribute to the school district’s newly retired, Veda Wilson, the face of the scarecrow,“Veda-Crow,” was a crowd favorite. Their entry celebrated Veda’s contributions to the school, as well as the hard work that Crystal and Jennifer having been doing for QSD’s students.

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1st Place Winner | photo: Jeff Childs

3rd Place Winner | photo: Jeff Childs

The 2nd place winner belonged to PEARL (Partnership for Excellence in Alternative Remote Learning) student Claire Reinertsen and her mom Lauren Reinertsen. Claire was the creative genius behind the “Man Eating Dragon Chasing Prince,” with a little help from mom. Claire said the secret to a good scarecrow is that “It has to be scary.

It has to chase the crows away.”

In the race for 3rd place, Mia Mann’s Third Grade class prevailed with their whimsical “Purple Fairy.”

The newly restored Hamilton-Worthington House was transformed into the perfect haunted house. The mansion became a showcase for local Halloween creations with Quilcene's First Grade class creating adorable paper scarecrow window décor for the mansion windows (in addition to their class scarecrow entry). The preschool kids made ghosts for the mansion’s third floor windows. They had a spooky good time!

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Plans are already afoot for next year’s contest - and it’s never too early to start designing your scarecrow entry!

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SHELLFISH & BEACH

Guide

SOUTH PUGET SOUND & HOOD CANAL

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

COVER PHOTO: GEORGE STENBERG

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GUIDE PRODUCED BY MASON COUNTY TOURISM

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MASON COUNTY'S B

shellfish Forage on Washington’s Wild Side.

Our Local Bivalves

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

EAGLE CR Hamma

Get to know a few species NATIVE LITTLENECK CLAM

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

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

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MANILA LITTLENECK CLAM (NOT NATIVE)

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

LILLIWAUP STATE PARK

Full off on Hwy 101, stairway to beach at north opening of Lilliwaup Bay. Walk north or south when tide is out.

Oysters and Clams. Eagles andOLYMPIC osprey. Overnight RV camping permitted; no restrooms.

NATIONAL FOREST

BUTTER CLAM

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

TAYLOR SHELLFISH 130 SE Lynch Rd Shelton (360) 432-3300 Taylor’s product line includes worldwide export of geoduck, clams, mussels and oysters. Headquartered in Kamilche, retail store is open daily. taylorshellfish.com

COCKLE CLAM

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

HOODSP

Visitor Informat

HOODSPORT

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

POTLATCH

POTLATCH BEACH PARK

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

Currently Closed to Shellfish Harvest

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

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

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OLYMPIA OYSTER

M AT LO C K

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

S HELT WALKER PARK

MUSSELS

Beach access, playground, restrooms, picnic shelte basketball court. Olympic Hwy to Arcadia Rd, from Rd take Left on Walker Park Rd, Park is on right.

No shellfish harvest. No passes required.

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

OYSTER BAY

Easy beach access on marshy estuary. Popular for bird watching and salmon observing/fishing.

Pullout on Hwy 101 near Mile Marker 356; near KENNEDY CREEK INTERPRETATIVE TRAIL.

GEODUCK

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OYSTERFEST

PACIFIC OYSTERS (NOT NATIVE)

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

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

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explorehoodcana

CHECK. CHILL. COOK.

BEACH &

map

T RI TO N 101

EL D O N

REEK

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

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

Restrooms, camping and picnic facilities.

Currently Closed to Shellfish Harvest

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MENARD’S LANDING

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B E LFAIR

Visitor Information

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

TA H U YA

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TWANOH STATE PARK 106

UNION 106

Visitor Information

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

Currently Closed to Shellfish Harvest GRAPEVIEW

UNION CITY MARKET

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

3 101 S 1st St

Visitor Information

E Pine St

HOPE ISLAND STATE PARK

c Hwy S SE Olympi

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CHELSEA FARMS OYSTER BAR

KA M I LC H E

222 CAPITOL WAY N, OLYMPIA | (360) 915-7784 Eld & Totten Inlet, South Puget Sound Chelsea Farm have made a priority of farming the native Olympia oyster that was on it’s way to extinction. Visit their oyster bar in Olympia for

local seafood experience! chelseafarms.net Visitor Information 101

al.com

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

Local Seafood:

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

Bistro at Lakeland Village

Robin Hood Restaurant

Boat House Restaurant

Smoking Mo’s

Hama Hama Oyster Saloon

Spencer Lake Bar & Grill

Hook & Fork

Squaxin Island Seafood Bar

Model T Pub & Eatery

Taylor Station

Restaurant at Alderbrook

Tides Family Restaurant

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

A 106-acre marine camping park reachable only by boat.

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

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er and Arcadia

ALLYN DAYS & GEODUCK FESTIVAL | Allyn, WA

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

02

ON

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

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

HUNTER FARMS 101

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

NORTH BAY

ALLYN

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

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

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

BELFAIR STATE PARK

101

tion

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

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

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

Parking limited.

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

PORT

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

DEWATTO BAY

HAMMA HAMMA

L ILL I WAUP

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

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

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

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

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

View more area dining at explorehoodcanal.comFJORD 33

Pacific Oyster

Manila Clam

Go play on the beach.

HARVEST SHELLFISH

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

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

DAILY LIMIT:

How to CATCH a bi valv e...

1.

K18 OYSTERSL Oysters consumed on beach

XCHECK TIDE

count toward a limit.

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

The lower the tide the bigger the reward!

oysters

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

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

Each harvester must use a separate container.

I

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

claim the Clams

DAILY LIMIT: K40 CLAMSL

I

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

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

Fill Holes

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

Geoduck

Mussel

I

Aw Shucks

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

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

sand purge

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

Purchase Licenses locally

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

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

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

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

Shelton Visitor Center

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

Stottle Winery Tasting Room

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14 Handcrafted Award Winning Wines

s h s ty l e

Hoodsport, WA on Hwy 101

e ig

Cabernet Sauvignon - Syrah - Sangiovese 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 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.

WDFW Accepts Applications for ALEA Volunteer Grants Beginning Dec. 1, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will begin accepting grant applications for volunteer projects that benefit the state’s fish and wildlife resources and the public’s enjoyment of them.

The program funds five major types of projects, although other project types may be considered. Project types include habitat restoration, scientific research/citizen science, public education and outreach, facility development and artificial fish production.

WDFW estimates having approximately $867,000 available for grants, funded through the state’s Aquatic Land Enhancement Account (ALEA), for projects occurring between July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2023. Applicants should be aware that the ALEA program may see its funding reduced or eliminated as part of budget reductions due to decreased state revenues resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The final amount available will be subject to legislative appropriation and won’t be finalized until the 2021 legislative session.

Eligible applicants are individual citizens, non-profit organizations, schools (including universities), tribes and political subdivisions of the state such as conservation districts. For-profit businesses, state and federal agencies are not eligible.

For more program information, including how to apply, visit the ALEA Grant Program website at wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/habitat-recovery/alea. The application period ends Feb. 28, 2021.

WDFW is the primary state agency tasked with preserving, protecting, and perpetuating fish, wildlife, and ecosystems, while providing sustainable fishing and hunting opportunities.

Funds are provided on a cost-reimbursement basis and may not be used for staff salaries, wages, stipends or benefits. Grantees are required to follow state purchasing rules and report on their progress quarterly.

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FJORD

Crossing the bar –

McMicken Island Craig Romano | Story & Pictures

There are no bridges or causeways to little McMicken Island in Case Inlet. No ferry service either. But you don’t need a kayak or boat to visit. You can easily hike to this island which lies about 0.2 mile off of the eastern shore of Harstine Island. It’s all in the timing.

FEATURED COLUMNIST:

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

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When the tide is low, a tombolo (a sandbar connecting the island to the mainland—or in this case another island) is exposed allowing you dry foot access to the island. You then can hike the island’s small half mile trail, picnic in its small meadow, or explore big barnacle-encrusted rocks in its intertidal zone. Just mind the incoming tide lest you make a big splash on your island exodus.

McMicken Island Distance: 4.0 miles round trip Elevation Gain: 150 feet High Point: 135 feet Difficulty: easy Snow free: year round Trailhead Pass Needed: Discover Pass Notes: Hike is only possible in low tides. Consult tide tables and plan accordingly. Dogs permitted on leash GPS waypoints: Harstine Island State Park Trailhead: N47 15.737 W122 52.236 McMicken Island Trailhead: N47 14.865 W122 51.780 Features: kid and dog friendly, exceptional beach hiking, undeveloped coastline, small island reached via a sandbar, good birdwatching, sublime views of Mount Rainier over Case Inlet.

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Hit the Trail The hike to little 11.5 acre McMicken Island begins from the 300-acre Harstine Island State Park. A former Washington DNR property, most of the old timber was logged off, but small groves of old-growth remains on the property.

You want to head to the park’s beach reachable by the two trails taking off south from the parking lot. Take the one on the eastern end of the lot (away from the kiosk) for the more direct route.

The trail heads towards Case Inlet soon reaching the edge of a 100 foot high forested bluff. Continue along the bluff taking in glimpses of the remote beach below. The way then descends into a cool and dark ravine graced with big cedars and firs and reaches a junction.

Head left through a row of big cedars and via a series of steps descend deeper into the ravine. After crossing a little creek the way emerges on a deserted beach. Look directly across Case Inlet to Herron Island and the Key Peninsula. Then look south and spot McMicken Island set against a backdrop of big beautiful Mount Rainier. If the tide is high, you’ll have to wait to hike the beach as overhanging trees prohibit passage. But in a low tide, a big wide easy to walk beach awaits your footprints.

Walk for more than a mile undulating between cobbles, mud and sand. Watch for sand dollars scatted across the tide flats.

Look too for eagles, herons and a myriad of seabirds. Harstine is a wet place and plenty of side creeks fan out on the beach.

You should be able to keep your shoes dry, but a pair of waterproof boots is not a bad The trail to the right loops back to the idea. The entire way to the tombolo is on other main trail leaving the parking lot. public tidelands. But there is a parcel of Consider taking it upon your return from private property located between two large McMicken Island. state park properties abutting the shoreline.

Respect posted private 38 property.

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The tombolo is pretty distinctive in low tides—fairly wide and several feet raised above inlet waters. In high tides it’s completely submerged, although breakers will help you locate its position. It’s really fun to hike it when a receding tide first reveals it. Tap your inner Moses and part the seas watching the land bridge emerge as you amble along it.

Reaching the island Once across the .2 mile sandy strip, reach McMicken Island. All of the little island except for a small fenced parcel with a couple of cabins is state park property. The private holding belongs to the family that once owned the entire island. They sold the island to the state withholding this small lot. Please keep out of it. The rest of the island however you are free to explore.

At the island’s western end is a small picnic area in a grassy opening. Here find some rare Garry oaks growing on a low bluff

above the surf. Near a composting toilet at the eastern edge of the field is a small nature trail. Hike it! It weaves a half mile through towering firs and madronas to blufftop views on the eastern end of the island.

Be sure to explore the rocky tide flats surrounding the island too, and check out the large erratics scattered about. There is a particularly large one on the south side of the island. Enjoy your island wanderings and explorations—more than likely sharing it with no more than just a couple of other happy hikers. And be sure to keep track of the time and incoming tide so you don’t get trapped on the island.

Notes:

Discover Pass required; WA State Parks; parks.state.wa.us/545/McMicken-Island Recommended Guidebooks: Urban Trails Olympia (Romano, Mountaineers Books) Trailhead directions: From Olympia, head north on US 101 to Olympic Highway (SR 3) Exit in Shelton. Then turn and follow SR 3 east for 11.0 miles. Turn right onto Pickering Road (Signed for Harstine Island) and

drive 3.3 miles. Then bear left onto Harstine Bridge Road and come to a T-junction upon entering Harstine Island. Go left on North Island Drive and after 3.0 miles turn right at the island community hall onto East Harstine Island Road. Proceed for one mile and turn left onto Yates Road. Continue 0.9 mile and turn right into Harstine Island State Park.

Reach trailhead parking in 0.2 mile.

Tips for safe and healthy hiking during the Covid-19 Pandemic It’s imperative that we do all we can to prohibit a second devastating outbreak of this disease.

We can do that by adhering to the following while we enjoy our trails:

• Avoid crowded destinations. If you arrive and the parking lot is full, head to another location.

• Opt for weekdays over weekends to hit the trail, aim for early morning before most folks arrive.

• Avoid hiking in large groups outside of your family • Practice Physical Distancing while on the trail, giving other hikers lots of room to pass.

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

• Pack hand sanitizer and pack it in pack it out – including all pet waste.

• Don’t be a surface pooper. Learn how to properly go in the woods by always using privies first 39 by heading at least 200' away from all trails, campsites and water sources and FJORD if available-or

39 digging a cat hole for your business. Bury your waste and toilet paper.

Hike back to Harstine Island State Park and call it a day or consider walking some more. The park contains three miles of trails. They traverse thick fir forests and swampy cedar groves and are family and dog-friendly.

Thank you Mason PUD #3 Mason County PUD#3 annually partners with the Shelton-Mason County Chamber of Commerce, City of Shelton, and Shelton and Kristmas Town Kiwanis Clubs to provide LED displays in Shelton. In 2019 they helped to illuminate 800+ trees in the Guinness World Record Christmas tree maze. In 2020 they are decorating Railroad LED cafe lights across the intersections and are sponsoring the Lighted Display Competition hosted by the Shelton Mason County Chamber. Thanks!

Residential LEDs use 75% less energy, and last 25 times longer, than incandescent lighting – that means you can have 4X the number of lights for the same amount of energy by selecting LED lights over the old style incandescent Christmas lights!

By 2027, use of LEDs could save the equivalent annual output of 44 large electric power plants, and a total savings of more than $30 billion at today’s electricity prices.

Take time to lose yourself in the Christmastown Guinness tribute maze on 1st St (former Mell Chev lot) and be sure to check out the two giant Christmas trees in Shelton – Post Office Park and the gorgeous courthouse Sequoia this Christmas season to see how bright the Season is downtown when it is #PoweredByPUD3.

Visit PUD3.org for even more great ideas to save energy this holiday season!

12 "Ways" of Christmas Energy Efficiency

1. PREPARE FOR GUESTS

5. SNEAKY HEATERS

2. IS YOUR TREE “FULL”?

6. SET YOUR HOT WATER

Remember, when family and friends come to stay they’ll add to your energy use. More showers, more laundry, using lights late into the night, and more fun.

Don’t block baseboards, heaters, and vents with Christmas trees and decorations. They work better and use less electricity without obstructions.

3. SERVICE HEAT PUMP

Service your heat pump annually. Normal maintenance helps avoid emergency repairs and surprise heating bills. Regularly replace your filters.

4. SCHEDULE HEAT

Use a programmable thermostat to efficiently run your heat pump, and watch out during cold weather. Use a lower setback temperature with a forced air furnace to maximize your energy savings. Set the thermostat at 68° when you’re home or awake; 55° when asleep or away.

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Don’t get stung by portable heaters. Each heater you plug in to bump up the heat racks up the kilowatt hour usage, causing a shocking bill.

Set your water heater to 120° and install high performance, low-flow shower heads. It’s a great way to eliminate energy waste with a gift that keeps on givin’ the whole year!

7. CHILLED EGG NOG?

Is your “Beer Fridge” running? Getting rid of that extra fridge in the garage could save about $10/month. Can you say, “Stocking Stuffers!

8. SAVE THE NECK

Stick with tradition when cooking the turkey in the oven. Giving this energy-eater a break for other meals throughout the year makes a difference on your energy bill.

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9. DUCTS IN A ROW

If you have duct work under your home, ensure that it is sealed and not leaking precious hot air to the great outdoors. Duct sealing is often a low-cost fix, compared to high bills caused by wasted energy.

10. BE SEEN FROM SPACE!

More lights, more cheer, more efficient! LED Christmas lights use about 75% less energy than the old bulbs.

11. BILL VACATIONS

Meter spinning when no one’s watching it go ‘round? If you have a vacation home or are traveling, PUD can help eliminate energy waste.

12. LEVEL OUT YOUR BILLS

Check if you qualify for low income senior or low income disability discounts. Use budget billing to pay a set amount each month and avoid cold weather bill spikes.

A Few Ideas to Get You Through Winter Ron Adams, Verle's | recreation contributor Hi again to all of the wonderful readers of the marvelous Fjord magazine. I hope all are doing and feeling well. I don't know about you but I am more than ready to kick the year 2020 to the curb. The peace and serenity of the great outdoors has been the only saving grace to what many consider a pseudo-nightmare that has dragged on far too long. Hasta la vista 2020 and an early hello to 2021. I sincerely hope it proves to be a much better year for all of us.

I've got some great ideas to pass the last of this outgoing year and welcome in the new one. Most of you know that I work at Verle’s Sporting Goods in Shelton and I have a bird's eye view of all things trending in the area when it comes to the outdoor activities we all love.

I have seen an increase in outdoor interest from all walks of life. Newcomers have stopped at the store seeking adventure outside and exercise social distancing. We are thankful that we could help them make the most out of these trying times. There were more new fishermen, boaters, hikers, berry

pickers and hunter/gatherers as family units and it was truly humbling to experience.

What are we going to do now that the weather has turned to foreboding? Here are a few things you can do.

Smoking Fish Remember all of those fish you caught that are in the freezer? This time of the year is great for smoking fish to enjoy yourselves and give away this holiday season to family or friends.

I assure you it is not that hard and if you have never done it before Verle’s Sporting

Goods carries everything you need from the equipment and knowledge to help you produce a delicious Northwest delicacy.

Scotts fish brine mix is super easy to use and produces a very tasty product that you and your family will love.

Verle's also carry Big Chief Smokers that come with a recipe book with instructions to make you look like a pro. They carry many different smoking chips such as apple, alder, cherry, mesquite (my personal favorite) and hickory.

In the Northwest, we are connected by our most abundant and reliable source of energy; hydroelectricity

a community powered utility

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Fly Tying I have noticed an increase in lure making and fly tying this year. We carry many items for both the pro and novice and if we don't have it, we can get it.

Special orders are a big part of our business and we work very hard to supply our customers old or new with their outdoor needs.

Freezer Jam Recipe Another thing I can think of to do during this winter is making freezer jam with all of those frozen berries saved from the summer.. It's a rewarding indoors activity the whole family can take part in.

Here is an easy recipe.

Start with a quart of berry, rinse them well and add to a heavy sauce pan. Add 4 tbsp water, 3 1\2 cups sugar and 3\4 cup light corn syrup.

Bring mixture to a boil over medium high heat stirring constantly. When mixture reaches boil reduce heat and simmer for 3 - 4 minutes while stirring. When the sugar is completely dissolved add 3 tbsp powdered fruit pectin and 1 tbsp lemon juice.

Simmer for 1 – 2 more minutes, remove from heat and mash berries to consistency. Pour mixture into clean airtight jars leaving about a 1/2 inch at top for expansion (makes about 7 quarts) and put in fridge or freezer. The mixture will last for about three weeks in the fridge and up to one year in the freezer.

You can also make pies or cobblers or compote.

I know some of us aren't as interested in making these delicacies as we are eating them so here is another idea to pass the time for those of us who enjoy eating more than cooking.

Winter Crabbing opens in parts of Puget Sound

Knife Sharpening If you are like me there is a kitchen drawer with a bunch of butter knives in it. They may not have started out as butter knives but they have become so dull that is about all they are good for.

Several marine areas of Puget Sound have been reopened for recreational crab fishing the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) announced in October.

Usually once a month, or whenever my wife starts mentioning the dull knives, I get out the sharpener and give them a good once over.

I use the Lansky sharpening system. It consists of three different stones, course, medium and fine. It also has a guide system that clamps to the blade of the knife and guides the stones at a consistent angle to obtain razor sharpness on almost any type of knife. It takes some time but the end result is a knife you can shave with.

Waters reopening to sport crabbing Oct. 1 include marine areas 4 (Neah Bay), 5 (Sekiu), 6 (Juan de Fuca), 7 (San Juan Islands), 9 (Admiralty Inlet), and 12 Hood Canal (North of Ayock Point). Effective October 10, Deception Pass, Hope Island, and Skagit Bay (Marine area 8-1) and Port Susan and Port Gardner (Marine area 8-2) In each open area, crabbing will be allowed seven days a week through Dec. 31. Marine area 13 (South Puget Sound) remains closed to support conservation and recovery of Dungeness crabs in this area.

Verle’s Sporting Goods carries Lansky products and I would be more than happy to give you my insight in using this system.

So how about trying some of these ideas? Make some new memories and maybe learn some new skills that you can use for this brand new and most hopefully better year.

WDFW fishery managers regularly monitor crab harvest levels against population goals and agreements. Assessments for these areas show that crabbers are able to continue harvesting into the late season this year.

Happy Holidays to all of you from all of the staff at Verle’s and wishing you a healthy and prosperous 2021.

FJORD

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42

Sport crabbers are reminded that setting or pulling traps from a vessel is only allowed from one hour before official sunrise through one hour after official sunset.

The daily limit in Puget Sound is five Dungeness crabs, males only, in hard-shell condition with a minimum carapace width of 6 1/4 inches. Crabbers may also keep six red rock crabs of either sex per day with a minimum carapace width of 5 inches, and six Tanner crabs of either sex with a minimum carapace of 4 1/2 inches. Additional information is available at wdfw.wa.go.

Crab fishers must have a Puget Sound Dungeness crab endorsement to harvest from Puget Sound. All Dungeness crabs caught in the late-season recreational fishery must be recorded immediately on winter catch record cards, which are valid through Dec. 31.

Winter catch record cards are free to those with crab endorsements and are available at license vendors across the state.

Winter catch reports are due to WDFW by Feb.1, 2021. For information visit wdfw.wa.gov.

THINGS TO DO

FALLS TO FISHING

43 MAP/LODGING

SHELTON & KAMILCHE

46 Situated between the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains in Mason County is Hood Canal.

A place filled with world-class activities, wild-caught fare, lively events, and plenty of places to hide away from it all when you just want the world to yourself.

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

MAP/LODGING HOOD CANAL AREA

47-51

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

KAYAKING

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

A rich paddling community supports any adventurer’s vision; rental packages and lesson opportunities for the budding kayaker or paddleboarder are not in short supply.

Get out on the water and enjoy a fresh perspective of the

43 canal with colossal peaks towering overhead.

FJORD

EXPERIENCE THE

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

MOTORSPORTS

T he Ridge Motorsports Park racing course near Shelton includes a fantastic road course that's geared towards club racers and competitors. Head to the DNR forests for some unmatched off-road trail rides.

CLEAR YOUR MIND AND

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

TRAILS & WALKS

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

HIGH STEEL BRIDGE

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

Follow Skokomish Valley Rd 11 miles from Hwy 101 to reach the bridge.

FJORD

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TAKE A LEAP

PICK A PEAK

We love the folks at SKYDIVE KAPOWSIN! Feel the

Mason County is shadowed by amazing heights!

adrenaline pumping rush of free-fall and experience

From easy day hikes with the family to overnights

the freedom of the air with highly trained professional

or “experience needed” excursions – you don’t

instructors. Views of the fjord and the Olympics and

have to go far for spectacular memories!

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

TASTING YOUR WAY AROUND THE

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

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

FISHING

From open water trolling on the sound to throwing dry flies on small lowland lakes, there are plenty of fishing opportunities in the area.

Seek colossal coho in the fall and hungry trout in the spring to see why every season is fishing season in Hood Canal.

BIKING

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

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SIX DESTINATION GOLF COURSES

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

ALDERBROOK

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

Restaurant, lounge & pro shop.

LAKE CUSHMAN

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

SALISH CLIFFS

LAKE LIMERICK GOLF CLUB

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

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

SHELTON SPRINGS DISC

masoncountydiscgolf.com Looking for a different type of golf?

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

LAKELAND VILLAGE

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

ITINERARY 1:

UNION AND THE WATERS OF SOUTH HOOD CANAL TAKE A DIP

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

DEEP RUN THE WATERS

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

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

BRUNCH ON THE DOCK

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

HUNT FOR TREASURES

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

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BIRDING

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

SCUBA DIVING

MUSIC & FESTIVALS

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

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

ON THE WATER Hood Canal occupies 150 square miles of the Olympic Peninsula and bellies up to the Olympic National Park. It's home to thousands of species of fish and marine mammals and invertebrates like orcas, oysters, and wild octopi while providing habitat to an array of seabirds.There's hardly a better way to take it all in than on the water.

47

FJORD

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

ITINERARY 2: SHELTON AREA

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

N

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

N

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

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

N

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

N

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

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Kitchen

SHELTON AREA LODGING*

Lake (L)Beach (B)

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

Pool (P) Spa (S)

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

CELEBRATING A RICH TIMBER HISTORY

Pets OK

RIDE THE RAILS

SHELTON

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

Telephone

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

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

TV/Cable

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

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

Wi/Fi

MARKET WATCH

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

Dining: Onsite (O) Nearby (N)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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*Phone number area code 360, unless otherwise specified.

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Ta hu ya Riv

Fin ch

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Cr k

Hood

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

NO FEE/PASS

l

TAH UYA

Potlatch State Park

Rock Crk

kum oo Sk

108

Crk

101

S

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se

Ln

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To tten I nle t

Lit t

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Ka m ilc h e

N ew Ka m i l c h e 101

Totten Inlet

Totten Inlet

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

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

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

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

49 NO FEE/ PASS DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED

Dr

slan d Jarrell Cr k

S End Rd

Island Rd S

ge

sa HOPE ISLAND STATE Pas PARK Donly by water.

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

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

CAMPING FEES

a

La

Rd

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Hope Island State Park

Harstine Island

an

E Agate Rd

Is

y Ba nd la ak O

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

NO FEE/PASS Fa

Dr

ou th

N 13th St S 1st St

S 10th St

W G

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

Squaxin Island

Mill Cr k

nell Crk os

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

Hwy 101 to Taylor Towne Exit.

d lan

age

allum Cr k oqu

Isabella Lake

Timber Lake

Arcadia

SE Arcadia Rd

3

Cr k

Pass

k Cr

Cl

Campbell

Jacobys Shorecrest County Park mersley Inlet Ham

Arcadia Ave

Agate

k Cr

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

Peale

Rock

vd Bl

c Hwy S SE Olympi

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

La

ee Coff

E Pine St

Turner Ave

ke

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oad Ave

Rd

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Jo hn sP rai rie E

or t Air p

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Matlock

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101

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Rd

B a y s h o re

3 N

WS

information, handouts, and maps

Rd

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Rd

E Wallace lvd B Kneeland E K St St EI

ic mp Oly y N Hw

SHELTON

borough lds Cr Go k

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SHELTON VISITOR CENTER TO GO: Red Caboose on Railroad Avenue

White Star

EP

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ES

Island Lake

Phillips Lake

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102

Rd

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Lost Lake

Spencer Lake

E Nor th I

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Lake Limerick

101

DAY TO N

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Cr

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HUNTER FARMS Farm Market, seasonal events; Visitor Center

r

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Stretch Point State Park

d ff R uto yC urd EP

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

DISCOVER PASS REQUIRED W Shelto n Ma tloc kR

Crk

Reach Island

G ra p e vi e w

3 Shumocher

Pickering Passage

ish

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d oo rw S he

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North Bay

Fair Harbor

Benson Lake

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106

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Annas Bay

Skokomish Indian Reservation

and

302

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106

UNI ON

Kirkl

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Rd ore Sh

Bay Rd

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101

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Ho od C

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N

Twanoh State Park

Sk

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Maggie Lake

POT LATCH

Lake West

a

202

Grisdale Hill

F

Belfair State Park

C

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Potlatch State Park Campground

NE O ld

De wa

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Rd

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Crk

C

Ha rp

on

Crk

R

Taggert Crk Mc

Fl at Cr k

Crk

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Lake Kokanee

Frigid Crk

ion

rk

s Stin

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Finch

Dennie Ahl Hill

NE B elf air Tah u

HOODSPORT

k

BE L FA IR

300

C

Dow Crk

Kok Lk

Gibbon s C r

DEWATTO

Rd atto NE Dew

3

e en

Clark Crk

Hoodsport Trail State Park

is s

an

Sund Crk

Miller

Lake Haven

M

shm Cu

Crk

Wooten Lake

Dewatto Bay

Dow Mtn

119

n Creek ground

101

LI LLI WAU P

Brown Crk

Tahuya State Forest

Big

Lilliwaup Falls

Price Lake

ke La Cushman Hill

tto

Crk

Saddle Mtn

Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman

FJORD

LOWER LENA LAKE TRAIL Well maintained popular trail leads to a small lake MODERATE TO DIFFICULT 3 mile climb,switchbacks TO GO: Hwy 101 at Hamma Hamma Recreation Area

STAIRCASE | OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK

Ranger Station is open in summer with information, exhibits, wilderness permits, map sales and wheelchair available. Road open year-round weather permitting. Call (360) 565-3131 NATIONAL PARK PASS TO GO: HWY 101 to SR#119, follow FS#24 to Staircase Entrance.

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

UPPER LENA LAKE TRAIL Steep with unstable bed; camping.

MODERATE TO DIFFICULT 4.3 mile climb TOPOGRAPHY: 3,800 foot gain to sub-alpine lake TO GO: Same as Lower Lena Lake Trail above.

WILDERNESS PERMIT FOR CAMPING NW FOREST PASS FOR PARKING

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

BIG CREEK Great pack-in picnic destination with pools and footbridges.

MODERATE 4 miles TO GO: Trailhead at FS#24 and SR#119 junction.

NW FOREST PASS Tri t o n Triton Head

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

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

101

Hamma Hamma Campground et Wak

ke h

ic

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

Ea gle k Cr tto B en dsland

rk

Fin ch

No ish

Riv

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S

ke

Fair Harbor

Benson Lake

k

Cr

Crk

f uto yC urd EP

North Bay

d oo rw S he

G ra p e vi e w

3

50

Shumocher

Reach Island

Stretch Point State Park

Crk

let

ok

am

In

Cr k

tre

302

VICTOR

Anderson Lake

se

rk

S KOKOMI S H

om

Weaver

DALBY WATERWHEEL TO GO: SR#106

b Bo Sk a

FJORD Sk

y Rd

d

Ba orth EN

k Cr

C

Cr k

m

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106 lley R

Stre

Annas Bay

Skokomish Indian Reservation

AL LYN

106

UNI ON

and

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al an Crk

C

Taggert Crk

Twanoh State Park

rk i C Enat

a

202

vehicle/vessel/fishing/hunting northmasonchamber.com

Potlatch State Park

Potlatch State Park Campground

Lake West

Kirkl

rth

TAH UYA

PASSES FOR PURCHASE

h Va

Belfair State Park

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

Rd ore Sh

N

101

POT LATCH

– information, handouts, maps

Co ult

Rd

N Lake Cus hm an

dC

on

MENARD’S LANDING

C Expansive beach with panoramic views of Maggie Lake Olympics.

Picnic tables. NO FEE/PASS R

Mc l Crk Hil

BE L FA IR

s Stin

Crk

Grisdale Hill

Skok omis

DISCOVER PASS

3

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ya R d

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Lake Kokanee

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

Crk

NE B elf air Tah u

Rd atto NE Dew

rk

HOODSPORT Finch

Frigid Crk

DEWATTO

Clark Crk

Hoodsport Trail State Park

k

Dennie Ahl Hill

Lake Haven

Dewatto Bay

C

Gibbon s C r

ion

Sund Crk

Miller

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Crk

Wooten Lake

Riv

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Dow Mtn

Dow Crk

Kok Lk

Creek ground

101

LI LLI WAU P

119

Brown Crk

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

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

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

y Rd

M

Lilliwaup Falls

Price Lake

TAHUYA STATE FOREST

Big

Cushman Hill

a

tto wa

De wa

Saddle Mtn

Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman

Ha rp

Ri v

Lake Melbourne

Big Crk

Lake Cushman

Blacksmith Lake

De

119

Ayock

p Crk wau Lilli

Big Creek Campground

Hw y U

Lilliwaup Creek Campground Tenas Lake

od Skinwork C

Crk

North Br

Mt Rose

Be lfa ir

Big

h ulc r G Be a

Fl at Cr k

d

NE O ld

te rs Jo

Mt Ellinor

n La

Copper Mtn

Cr k

Mt Washington

Cr k

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Cr

Ir

Wa sh i ngt

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Jeffe r Crkson

Crk te la

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

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

SERVICES AT PORT OF DEWATTO CAMPGROUND

H AMMA H AMMA

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

Ca

k Cr

n

ELDO N

Maso

J

k Cr efferson

ar C rk

Big Missi

Mount Skokomish Wilderness Mt Pershing

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Ta hu ya Riv

Jefferson Peak

Crk

Cruiser

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k Cr

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Hamma Hamma River

ion Cr k

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LIVING LEGACY TRAIL Spectacular views of the Mt. Skokomish and the Brothers ranges; interpretive signage.

Trail passes Hamma Hamma Cabin built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (1930s).

EASY TO MODERATE 1.5 mile loop.

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

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

WILDERNESS PERMIT REQUIRED FOR CAMPING

on

Boulder Crk

Cr

e ors

Henderson

Lena Creek Campground

k

eh

Mt Skokomish

p le Ma

Wh it

Le Crke

Mt Stone

HAMMA HAMMA

HIKING & BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

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

ITINERARY 3: HOODSPORT & NORTH HOOD CANAL

DIVE DEEPER

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Telephone

CUSHMAN, ELDON, HOODSPORT, POTLATCH & LILLIWAUP

TV/Cable

WEST HOOD CANAL LODGING

Lake (L)Beach (B)

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

Wi/Fi

CANAL SPIRIT

HOODSPORT WINERY, STOTTLE WINERY, and HARDWARE DISTILLERY offer tastings amongst shopping, dining and the famous Olympic Mountain Ice Cream.

FORAGE DINNER

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

Dining: Onsite (O) Nearby (N)

HUG THE CURVES

As Hwy 101 navigates the bays of HOOD CANAL, imagine relaxing dockside of a beachside cabin, watching the seals roll off the rocks.

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

N

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

N

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

N

•

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

N

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

N

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

N

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

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

N

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

N

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

N

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

N

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

N

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

N

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

N

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

N

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B

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B

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B

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B

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B

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S B

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FJORD

Waterview

•

Boat Rentals

B

RV Sites

Kitchen

Pool & Spa (S)

Pets OK

Telephone

N • • • •

Beach (B)

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

TV/Cable

ALLYN

Wi/Fi

Dining: Onsite (O) Nearby (N)

ALLYN/BELFAIR/UNION*

• • •

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

N • • • •

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

N

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

N

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•

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B

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

O • • • • • B

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

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

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

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

N • •

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

O •

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

N • •

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

N

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

•

UNION B S B B

• S

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

O • • •

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

N

B

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

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B

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

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B

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

N • •

B

•

• •

ITINERARY 4: ALLYN/GRAPEVIEW LOOP A CUT ABOVE

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

They also teach chainsaw carving.

WATERFRONT WANDERINGS

•

• •

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

GRAPE VIEWS

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

BEACH WALK

There are plenty of great public beaches to explore and launch points The area features quaint shops, a variety of FJORD 52 for your kayaks. restaurants, and beach parks.

ALLYN

ITINERARY 5: BELFAIR AREA TAKE A WALK ON BOARDWALK

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

SALMON STRONG

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

GET DIRTY

TAHUYA STATE FOREST hosts off road

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

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

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

VISITOR INFORMATION & RESOURCES HOODSPORT VISITOR CENTER 150 N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport, WA (360) 877-2021 | (800) 576-2021

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

UNION VISITOR INFORMATION

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

SHELTON CHAMBER VISITOR CENTER

215 W. Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA | (360) 426-2021 Open 8 AM - 5 PM | Monday through Friday

MASON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM 427 W. Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA 11 AM - 4 PM | Tuesday through Saturday

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

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

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK nps.gov

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Cross-country skier at Hurricane Ridge NPS Photo: Dan Sullivan

Recreate Responsibly This Winter Season at

Olympic National Park NPS Story | Penny Wagner

From snow-blanketed mountains to evergreen forests dripping with rain and ocean beaches pounded by winter storm waves, there are many ways to experience winter at Olympic. Although most of areas of the park are open, some facilities and park roads are closed for the season. Before your visit, check the current conditions and weather forecast and be prepared for rain and snow. Call (360) 565-3131 for road, campground, and weather updated twice daily.

Leaving an accurate itinerary with an emergency contact is a critical step for any trip in the backcountry.

Hurricane Ridge Winter season operations for Hurricane Ridge are set to begin Friday, November 27. Weather permitting, the Hurricane Ridge Road is scheduled to be open Fridays through Sundays through March 28. In addition, the road is scheduled to be open during winter break from December 26, 2020 through January 3, 2021 (closed Christmas Day) and holiday Mondays on January 18 and February 15, 2021. The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center will remain closed through the winter season. Staff are currently scheduled to be available at an information window from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm but the exhibit space, tables, and warming area are closed. Be prepared to use your vehicle as a warming area and pack extra food, water, dry clothing, and blankets and/or sleeping bags in your vehicle.

Restroom facilities will be open.

Visitors are urged to plan ahead, hike smart, pack the Ten Essentials, and have an emergency plan— even for a short day hike or snowshoe excursion. Consider learning CPR and basic wilderness first aid, especially if you are planning to hike, ski, orFJORD snowshoe in the backcountry.

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When planning a visit to Hurricane Ridge, check the park website for updates and changes to winter operations. Downhill Ski, Snowboard and Tubing Area Weather and snow permitting, the Hurricane Ridge Ski, Snowboard and Tubing Area is scheduled to operate from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and holiday Mondays beginning December 6 through March 28, 2021. The area is also scheduled to be open daily December 26 through January 3. More information is available at hurricaneridge.com.

Skiing & Snowshoeing Opportunities for cross-country skiers and snowshoers range from open, level meadows near the visitor center to extreme terrain in the wilderness backcountry.

Anyone skiing or snowshoeing beyond the immediate Hurricane Ridge area should sign-in at the registration box in the foyer of the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center and be prepared for steep terrain and the possibility of avalanches. Information about routes and trails is available at park visitor centers or online at nps.gov.

Avalanche Information Up-to-date information about weather and avalanche risk is available from the Northwest Avalanche Center online at nwac.us. Anyone planning to venture beyond the maintained downhill ski area, or the immediate Hurricane Ridge area, should always check their website and conditions posted at the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center.

Wilderness Information Centers – Wilderness Safety Wilderness Information Centers are closed to the public for the remainder of 2020.

Staff are available daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm to distribute bear canisters and answer questions from the back porch, via email at OLYM_WIC@nps.gov, or by phone at (360) 565-3100. All wilderness camping permits must be reserved online at Recreation.gov prior to the planned trip.

Pacific Coast Kalaloch, Mora and Ozette—Olympic National Park’s road-accessible coastal destinations—are open weather permitting, including all roads, campgrounds and trailheads. Visitors should be aware of the high tides in the winter and any predicted storms. Storms can make beach hiking hazardous and even impossible due to large waves. Coastal streams that are normally easy to cross can be waist deep or deeper during storms.

Rain Forest Throughout the winter season, rain falls frequently in the Hoh, Queets and Quinault Valleys, contributing to the yearly average of 140 inches of precipitation each year. The result is a lush, green canopy of both coniferous and deciduous species. Mosses and ferns that blanket the surfaces add another dimension to the enchantment of the rain forest.

The Hoh Rain Forest Road is generally open 24 hours a day. The Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center remains closed. Restroom facilities are located outside the Visitor Center. Staff are available outside the Visitor Center Friday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm through January 3, 2021 (except Christmas Day).

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Recreate Responsibly Follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and practice Leave No Trace principles when you visit.

Know before you go. Visit NPS.gov/olym for current park conditions. Make a plan, follow the 10 Essentials, and if you are sick, stay home.

Keep it close. Follow the state and county orders governing the open status of the area you’re considering visiting.

The National Park Service is working closely with governors and state and local health departments as we increase access and services across the National Park System.

NEED HELP

PLANNING RETIREMENT?

NEED HELP WITH

MEDICARE? If it seems like a daunting task to plan how you’ll make your money last in retirement, you’re in luck.

We’ve been there before, and we can help you get a handle on preparing for your financial future.

There’s no need to go it alone.

Call Bowman Financial Group today for more information!

(360) 427-4248

www.bowmanfgi.com

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

FJORD

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Keep your distance. Recreate with the people in your household. Give others plenty of room whether you are on a trail, at a boat launch, or in a parking lot. Follow the CDC social distancing guidelines for staying six feet away from others. Be prepared to cover your nose and mouth if you’re near others.

Know your limits. Postpone challenging hikes or trying new activities while first responders, parks, and communities continue to concentrate on responding to the pandemic.

Keep it with you. If you brought it, take it with you.

Trash pickup and restroom facilities will continue to be limited in many park areas. Follow Leave No Trace principles.

Keep it inclusive. Be an active part of making our nation’s parks and public lands safe and welcoming for all identities and abilities.

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

pacific coast scenic

waterfall trail

SCENIC WATERFALL

guide Let’s go Chasing

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

GUIDE TO 25

OLYMPIC PENINSULA

WATERFALLS

57

waterfalltrail.org FJORD

25 SCENIC WATERFALLS

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

are worth the journey!

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

Olympia & Hood Canal

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

1. Tumwater Falls Loop (1 MILE – EASY)

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Crescent & Elwha River

3. Vincent Creek Falls (ROAD ACCESS – EASY)

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

Skokomish Valley Rd; 5.6 miles to FR 23; 2.3 miles to FR 2340 Olympic National Forest, no pass, caution: low guardrail Arched truss 685’ High Steel Bridge (1929) spans 375’ and is the 14th highest bridge in USA. Falls drop 250’ over canyon.

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Wolf

Elwha River Valley | Olympic Hot Springs Rd 2.1 miles Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, ADA, dog-friendly Short walk to mossy maple and cedar lined grotto. This path is one of the few within the national park that is open to leashed dogs.

Creek Falls (0.8 MILE ROUND-TRIP –MODERATE) Elwha River Valley | US 10, milepost 240, Olympic Hot Springs Rd, 4.0 miles, left onto dirt Whiskey Bend Rd, 4.2 miles to trail head Olympic National Park, pass required, dogs prohibited After a steep descent to river walk along the gravel bank of Wolf Creek to a fanning 25’ falls. Step back to see another tier above it.

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Rocky Brook Falls (QUARTER MILE – EASY)

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

Thank you.

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pacific coast scenic

waterfall trail

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

®2020 | Information and images courtesy of Craig Romano.

Craig has written more than 20 guidebooks including Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula 2nd Edition.

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

Lake Crescent | milepost 228, right at Lake Crescent Lodge Olympic National Park, no pass, kid-friendly, dogs prohibited A popular waterfall on the Olympic Peninsula, if it was harder to reach, this 90’ horsetail cascade would still be well-visited.

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

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

Pacific Coast & Quinault

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

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

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

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

Wynoochee Valley | FR 22 34 miles, FR 23 2.5 mile to trail Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid-friendly, dog friendly 93’ falls plunge into a box canyon. Trail goes through old-growth forest to a viewpoint of falls dropping into the gorge.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quinault Rainforest | South Shore Rd 2.3 miles to trail Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid / dog friendly Not the tallest, nor most popular of the waterfalls within the Quinault Rainforest, Cascade Falls is perhaps the prettiest.

21. Merriman Falls (ROADSIDE—MINIMAL WALKING)

Quinault Rainforest | South Shore Rd from US 101, 6.7 miles Olympic National Forest, no pass, kid-friendly, dog friendly The falls plummet 40 feet over a mossy and ferny ledge into a mossy tangle of boulders and saturated logs.

22. Enchanted Valley of 10,000 Waterfalls

(26 MILES ROUND-TRIP – MODERATE BACKPACKING TRIP) Quinault Rainforest | South Shore Rd from US 101, 13 miles to Quinault River Bridge,right on Graves Creek Rd 6.2 miles ONP Wilderness Permits required, kid-friendly, no dog Behold its stunning backdrop of sheer cliffs 3,000 feet high streaked with waterfalls and hanging snow and ice.

Full descriptions: waterfalltrail.org

Located at the confluence of the South and West Forks of Porter Creek.

Here one branch cuts through a cleft while the other plunges over a ledge into a big punchbowl.

CAPE FLATTERY

LAKE CRESCENT

LAKE OZETTE

17 LA PUSH

16

15

12 14

PORT TOWNSEND

13 QUILCENE

Olympic National Park

18 KALALOCH

PORT ANGELES

11

19

22

QUINAULT

5

21

4

24

20

10

23 25

3

8 9 7 6

BRINNON

SEATTLE

HOODSPORT BELFAIR

SHELTON TACOMA

ABERDEEN

2 1

OLYMPIA

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

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

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

25 WAYS TO WATERFALLS

1 Tumwater Falls

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

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

4. Big Creek Cascades

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

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

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

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

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

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

QuestionS?

LAKE CRESCENT LAKE OZETTE

17 LA PUSH

15

12 14

19

22

QUINAULT

10

5

21 20

PORT TOWNSEND

13

Olympic National Park

18 KALALOCH

PORT ANGELES

11 16

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

4

24 23 25

3

8 9 7 6

QUILCENE BRINNON

SEATTLE

HOODSPORT BELFAIR

SHELTON

TACOMA

KAMILCHE

2 OCEAN SHORES

1

OLYMPIA

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

FJORD

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FULL DESCRIPTIONS AT WATERFALLTRAIL.ORG

Brian Cullen | Story

“If you could say it in words, there would be no reason to paint.”

–Edward Hopper

Five Paintings - Five Olympic Tales A visit to the newly restored Victorian mansion, the Hamilton-Worthington House, in Quilcene, just might indeed leave you speechless. One of the final acts in this remarkable decade-long volunteer project by the Quilcene Historical Museum is the hosting of a painting collection by Northwest artists whose heydays coincided with that of the mansion.

The sixteen painting collection is on loan from Allan and Mary Kollar of A.J. Kollar Fine Paintings, LLC. Both Allan and Mary, volunteers since 2011, share a commitment to the cultural and educational mission of Worthington Park. They are also in large part responsible for the historical furnishings in the mansion. “We would like to thank the Kollars for the loan of these lovely paintings and for the amazing support they have given the project since 2011,” said the new Chair of the Museum, Christine Satterlee. The Museum is exploring ways now to showcase the mansion interiors, including this extraordinary art collection, to the public in 2021. What follows are five representative paintings culled from the collection for their significance.

Women artists of the 19th and early 20th century had an uphill battle in a world of practicing artists. The Academies were founded by men. The exhibitions were judged by men. Women had to rise above the norm to break into art establishments.

The Hamilton-Worthington House is exhibiting four paintings by three women

artists of the period: Abby Hill, Harriet Beecher, and Eliza Barchus. Two of those artists’ works are profiled here: Abby Hill (Am. 1861-1943)

Cedars Above Trout Lake, Mt Adams Abby Hill moved to Tacoma, Washington from Iowa in 1889. She exhibited her art in the 1893 Columbian Exposition at the Chicago World’s Fair, the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, the 1905 Lewis & Clark Centennial Exposition in Portland, and in many other national art exhibitions. She won two gold medals in the 1909 Alaska-Yukon Pacific Exposition in Seattle. Her great fame was established by her numerous landscape commissions from the Northern Pacific and Great Northern Railways to promote tourism. She left her personal painting inventory to the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, WA.

Abby Hill, Cedars Above Trout Lake, Mt Adams photo: Jeff Childs

Harriet Foster Beecher (Am. 1854-1915)

Pondering, 1895 Harriet Beecher moved from Indiana to San Francisco to study at the School of Design. She moved to Port Townsend in 1880, and later moved to Seattle in 1893.

Beecher was considered one of the most noted female artists of the 19th and 20th century in America. She was one of the first women artists to be selected to serve on the Panama-Pacific International Exposition’s Advisory Board.

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He moved to Klickatat, Washington, in the 1890’s, but exhibited widely in New York City, Paris, and London. He eventually settled in Goldendale, Washington, where he spent the rest of his life painting the beautiful Northwest. He did not sign many of his donated paintings as he wanted his style and imagery to speak for itself.

James Everett Stuart, Windy Point Hood Canal, 1891 photo: Jeff Childs

James Everett Stuart (Am. 1852-1941)

Windy Point Hood Canal, 1891 Harriet Foster Beecher, Pondering, 1895.\ photo: Jeff Childs

Her works were exhibited nationally and she was the recipient of numerous awards.

This romantic young lady in an interior, represents a signature work of the Victorian Era in America. The sitter’s formal dress is a sign of classic upper-middle class. The writing desk as a symbol of communication, and the roses, a symbol of love, present us with a young woman pondering a possible suitor.

In addition to these outstanding works by regional women artists, there are also several notable paintings in the collection by their male colleagues: Paul Morgan Gustin (Am. 1886-1974)

Stuart painted several paintings in the Hood Canal area in 1891. He started painting at eight years of age. He titled and dated his work on the reverse of his canvases, and is reported to have painted over 5,000 landscapes, many in the Pacific Northwest. He was the grandson of America’s famous 19th century portrait painter Gilbert Stuart, and his paintings have appeared in the White House.

William Samuel Parrott , Northwest Territory photo: Jeff Childs

Visit worthingtonparkquilcene.org for the 2021 Worthington Park event schedule and updates. Background content on the painting collection provided by Allan Kollar.

William Samuel Parrott (Am 1844-1915)

Northwest Territory Parrott was considered one of the most accomplished artists of the Northwest. He opened his first studio in Portland, Oregon, in 1867. In 1887, he closed his studio and painted in the woodlands of northern California, Oregon, and Washington.

Mount Olympus, Cascade Range, WA, 1923 Paul Gustin was born in Fort Vancouver, Washington. He was a painter and printmaker of Northwest landscapes. His work has been exhibited in New York galleries, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Pan-Pacific International Exposition in the San Francisco (1915), Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art, the Corcoran Gallery in Washington, D.C. as well as the Seattle Art Museum. He taught at the University of Washington in the 1920’s. He has murals in many Northwest buildings.

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Christina Satterlee, Quilcene Museum Chair

Paul Morgan Gustin, Mount Olympus, Cascade Range, WA, 1923 62

The Worthington Estate has a rich history. Learn about the Worthington and Hamilton Families, how the estate came to be acquired by the Quilcene Historical Museum, and read about the restoration of the mansion to its original architectural style. worthingtonparkquilcene.org

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