Start with a scenic drive up the Skokomish River Valley, keeping an eye out for bald eagle on the way. Your destination is the High Steel Bridge, a 685-foot structure perched 420 feet above a dramatic basalt canyon on the Skokomish River. Few places offer photographers and nature-lovers a view as striking as this.

As you make your way back to sea level, head toward State Route 106 and Union. The Skokomish Tribe offers birdwatching tours in the area (call 360-877-2110 for more information).

Or, stop in at Hunter Farm to try out the many local products available at this unique roadside store and working farm.

From there, head north to Belfair, where Theler Wetlands sits just off Highway 3. A short walk down the path brings you to an indoor and outdoor interpretive center, native plant gardens, and nearly four miles of boardwalk and well-maintained trail through alder forest and the Union River estuary along Hood Canal. Bring your binoculars, as this wetland habitat supports a plethora of wildlife, include bald eagles, blue heron, migratory birds and lowland creatures.