5 amazing hikes around Hood Canal
While there is plenty of news coverage following the devasting Bear Gulch fire near the Staircase Entrance to the Olympic National Park, don’t give up on your plans to visit the Hood Canal region to explore the many amazing hikes and trails in the area.
While there is plenty of news coverage following the devasting Bear Gulch fire near the Staircase Entrance to the Olympic National Park, don’t give up on your plans to visit the Hood Canal region to explore the many amazing hikes and trails in the area. Award winning local guidebook author, Craig Romano, shared 25 of his top area hikes with us in a handy “stuff-in-your-glovebox guide,” here are a few of the many hikes that are open and awaiting your adventure! Welcome to the #wildsideWA.
Tighten your laces!
1. Murhut Falls
(Olympic National Forest)
Hidden in a lush narrow ravine, Murhut Falls were long unknown to many in the outside world. But all that changed upon the construction of a well-built and easy to hike trail. This two-tiered waterfall that plummets 130 feet has become a favorite cascade for many Olympic Peninsula hikers. The trail starts by following an old well-graded logging road. As you work your way toward the falls, its roar will signal that you’re getting closer. Reach the trail’s end and behold the impressive falls crashing before you. The upper falls drops more than 100 feet while the lower one crashes about 30 feet.
Difficulty: Easy, 300 feet elevation gain, 1.6 miles
Permits: Not required
Kid and Dog Friendly: Yes
2. DuckabusH River trail
(Olympic National Forest)
The Duckabush River starts in the heart of the Olympic Mountains and flows through a deep verdant valley on its way to Hood Canal. Duckabush River Trail travels near and along the river for more than 20 miles terminating at Marmot Lake in the heart of Olympic National Park. At a little over 3 miles you will come to a ledge with a spectacular view east down the river valley. On a clear day you can see all the way to the Cascades.
Highlights: Old-growth forest, low elevation wilderness valley, backpacking opportunities
Distance: Moderate, 10.6 miles R/T Elevation gain: 2150 feet
Permits: NW Forest Pass /Interagency Pass
Kid & Dog Friendly: Yes
Duckabush River
3. LENA LAKES TRAIL
(OLYMPIC NATIONAL FOREST & PARK)
With all the fire activity this iconic trail system remains far removed from the bustle. The Lena Lakes are located above the Hamma Hamma valley. Despite having the same name, the two lakes have distinct differences. The lower lake is a simple, family and pet-friendly walk through old, tall trees in Olympic National Forest. The upper lake is a tough climb to a beautiful high area in Olympic National Park. The lower lake can be busy with hikers on a summer Saturday while the upper lake offers more solitude. Access to both lakes is the same.
Highlights: Old-growth forest, water!
Distance: Lower: 6 miles R/T; Upper: 14 miles R/T
Elevation gain: Lower: 1225 feet; Upper : 4100 feet
Difficulty: Lower Lake: moderate; Upper Lake: strenuous Permits: Northwest Forest or Interagency Pass
Hiking Season: Lower Lake: March to Dec; Upper Lake: July to November
Notes: Camping (no fires) at Upper Lake requires National Park Wilderness Camping Permit (contact Olympic National Park, Wilderness Information Center (360) 565-3100)
Kid-Friendly: Yes Lower Lake; no Upper Lake Dog-Friendly: yes Lower Lake; prohibited Upper Lake
4. spider lake
(Olympic National Forest)
A long slender lake tucked within a narrow valley on the Skokomish–Satsop River divide, Spider is graced with groves of ancient giant old-growth forest. The trail around the lake is a remnant of a longer trail that once traversed miles of primeval trees. Most of those trees have since been logged, and the trail truncated to the lake. The remaining trail has since been restored and the forests on the surrounding hillsides are regenerating nicely.
Highlights: Old-growth forest Distance: 2 mile R/T Difficulty: Easy Elevation gain: 250 feet
Permits: None
Kid and Dog Friendly: Yes
5. Schafer Forest Trail
(Schafer State Park)
Tucked along the East Fork Satsop River in extreme southwestern Mason County, Schafer State Park is off-the-beaten path. While this park is far from population centers, it was a thriving spot for many years. In 1872 the Schafer Family came from Wisconsin to homestead here. Three of their sons, Peter, Albert and Hubert begin logging the homestead in the 1890s. They donated this parcel to the state in 1924, and it continued to host many large company gatherings as well as other groups. Today the park is much quieter, but families still come here to gather. The park’s trails however tend to remain pretty peaceful.
Highlights: Historic homestead; trail along Satsop River; salmon spawning creek and estuary
Distance: 1.3 mile loop Elevation gain: 75 feet
Difficulty: Easy Permits: Discover Pass Kid & Dog Friendly: Yes
This is only a SMALL sampling of the amazing hikes available in the area! Check out the hikes link for a full list of places to explore, visit the waterfalls trail for a comprehensive list of year-round waterfall destinations — or pick up or download a copy of Romano’s Top 25 Hikes!
Sacred Waters Retreat in Union WA | Healing, Art, and Community Above Hood Canal
Welcome to Sacred Waters Retreat, a hidden sanctuary perched above the shores of Hood Canal in Union, Washington. Formerly known as Harmony Hill, this sacred space has been a source of healing, reflection, and community for nearly four decades. With a legacy rooted in cancer retreats, grief support, yoga, and meditation, Sacred Waters continues that mission, now with open arms to the entire community.
Welcome to Sacred Waters Retreat, a hidden sanctuary perched above the shores of Hood Canal in Union, Washington. Formerly known as Harmony Hill, this sacred space has been a source of healing, reflection, and community for nearly four decades. With a legacy rooted in cancer retreats, grief support, yoga, and meditation, Sacred Waters continues that mission, now with open arms to the entire community.
This video tells the story of Sacred Waters’ transition, from its beginnings as Harmony Hill to its preservation through the generous support of local donors and its new stewardship by St. Andrew’s House. You’ll hear from longtime facilitators, volunteers, and artists who share how this land continues to inspire peace, transformation, and connection.
From the 150-year-old sequoia at the heart of the labyrinth to the windphone, where visitors can speak to loved ones who’ve passed, every inch of this eight-acre property invites stillness and renewal. Visitors can walk the gardens, attend a retreat, volunteer, or simply sit in the shade and take in panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Hood Canal.
As part of its new community outreach, Sacred Waters is hosting its first Art & Community Fair on July 20, 2025, from 11 AM to 4 PM. This free, family-friendly event features live music from Chris Eakes, handmade works from regional artists, delicious food by Kern’s Kitchen, and booths from organizations like the YMCA, Mason County Historical Museum, and the Hood Canal Improvement Club.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to reflect or a new way to connect with your neighbors, Sacred Waters is here for you. Everyone is welcome.
Loblolly Lavender Farm: A Peaceful Bloom in Shelton, Washington
Experience the sights, scents, and serenity of Loblolly Lavender Farm—a hidden gem in Shelton, Washington. With over 2,000 vibrant lavender plants, handmade products, and a charming on-site shop, this locally grown family farm is the perfect escape.
Experience the sights, scents, and serenity of Loblolly Lavender Farm—a hidden gem in Shelton, Washington. With over 2,000 vibrant lavender plants, handmade products, and a charming on-site shop, this locally grown family farm is the perfect escape.
In this video, Keith and Tracy Cook share the story behind Loblolly—from planting the first rows to welcoming over 1,000 guests at their first festival. Learn about the different lavender varieties, their calming and healing benefits, and how you can pick your own bouquet, sip lavender tea, and browse small-batch skincare and syrups all summer long.
Discover the Magic of Sunrise Resort on Hood Canal – A Pacific Northwest Hidden Gem
Tucked along the pristine shores of Hood Canal, Sunrise Resort is more than a destination—it’s a tradition. With stunning waterfront views, unmatched diving access, and deep roots in the Hoodsport community, Sunrise offers adventure, tranquility, and unforgettable memories for families, travelers, and divers alike.
Tucked along the pristine shores of Hood Canal, Sunrise Resort is more than a destination—it’s a tradition. With stunning waterfront views, unmatched diving access, and deep roots in the Hoodsport community, Sunrise offers adventure, tranquility, and unforgettable memories for families, travelers, and divers alike.
In this video, meet the people behind the transformation of this iconic resort, explore breathtaking footage of its natural surroundings, and hear why divers from around the world call this place home. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a dive retreat, or just want to reconnect with nature—Sunrise Resort is your gateway to the best of the Pacific Northwest.
Explore The Glen — where adventure begins and comfort meets the beauty of Washington’s Hood Canal.
Nestled between forest and fjord, The Glen is your ultimate base camp for outdoor escapes, weekend retreats, and unforgettable getaways. With 14 hotel rooms (including pet-friendly options), luxury suites, a vacation rental, and full RV hookups, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the Olympic National Park, Staircase, Lake Cushman, and beyond.
Nestled between forest and fjord, The Glen is your ultimate base camp for outdoor escapes, weekend retreats, and unforgettable getaways. With 14 hotel rooms (including pet-friendly options), luxury suites, a vacation rental, and full RV hookups, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the Olympic National Park, Staircase, Lake Cushman, and beyond. From free coffee and waterfront jacuzzis to deep-water diving and forest trails, The Glen blends rustic charm with modern amenities. Whether you're hiking, kayaking, oyster tasting, or just relaxing by the fire pit—this is where your story begins.
Escape to Jarrell Cove State Park | Harstine Island, WA
Located on the northwest tip of Harstine Island in Mason County, Washington, Jarrell Cove State Park is a peaceful, saltwater playground with forested campsites, moorage for boaters, and plenty of space to kayak, paddleboard, or unwind by the water.
Located on the northwest tip of Harstine Island in Mason County, Washington, Jarrell Cove State Park is a peaceful, saltwater playground with forested campsites, moorage for boaters, and plenty of space to kayak, paddleboard, or unwind by the water.
In this video, Jeff Slakey from Explore Hood Canal explores the park with Ranger Liesl Plomski and Park Aid Lucas Marin to uncover its hidden history, local wildlife, and everything that makes Jarrell Cove one of the South Sound’s best-kept secrets.
From Logging Legacy to Natural Escape – Discover Schafer State Park
Take a journey through time and trees at Schafer State Park — one of Washington’s original state parks, founded in 1924 by the Schafer Logging family. Set along the beautiful Satsop River near Elma, this park blends rustic WPA-era craftsmanship with brand-new campgrounds and cabins.
Take a journey through time and trees at Schafer State Park — one of Washington’s original state parks, founded in 1924 by the Schafer Logging family. Set along the beautiful Satsop River near Elma, this park blends rustic WPA-era craftsmanship with brand-new campgrounds and cabins. In this feature, we explore the park’s rich logging legacy, the flowing Satsop, modern upgrades, and the peaceful recreation that keeps visitors coming back year after year.
HOODSTOCK 2025 | UNION, AUGUST 15–16
The 8th Annual Hood Canal Music and Art Festival (Hoodstock) in Union, Washington is not just a lineup of modern performances—it’s a heartfelt homage to the illustrious artist colony that has defined this region since the early 1900s.
Hoodstock Kickoff!
Friday, August 15 | 6pm - 10pm
Robinhood Village Resort, Union WA
Ticketed Event / 21+ over only (tickets available at www.hoodstock.org)
Lineup:
6pm - 6:45pm Liquid Horse
7pm - 7:45pm Lavon Blue Band
8pm - 10pm 5 Guys 1 Flute
Hoodstock Water Concert!
Saturday, August 16 | 12pm - 6pm
Union, WA
Boat launch: Union Marina, 5101 WA-106, Union, WA 98592
Lineup:
12pm - 1:30pm Cody Bartels and the Evergreen Playboys
2 pm - 2:30 pm Lovely Colours
4pm - 6pm Nearly Dan
Your flag is your ticket! Flags are available for purchase at the Union Country Store, May Mobile Marine, and Summertide Resort.
Hoodstock Land Festival!
Saturday, August 16 | 12pm - 4pm
Robinhood Village Resort, Union WA
Free admission from 12 pm - 4 pm, all ages | 15+ artisan vendors & food trucks!
Lineup:
12pm - 12:45pm Steve Beck
1pm - 1:45pm Biff Moss
2pm - 2:45pm Captain's Lounge
3:15pm - 4pm The Grit Band
6pm - 10pm
Robinhood Village Resort, Union WA
Ticketed Event / 21+ over only (tickets available at www.hoodstock.org)
Food and beverages available!
Lineup:
6pm - 7:30pm The Lumen
8pm - 10pm Garage Heroes
Flag Purchase: Flags are available at the Union Country Store, May Mobile Marine, and Summertide Resort.
For tickets and more details on each event, be sure to visit hoodstock.org and be ready to celebrate a dynamic heritage that blends “Then to Now” in a spectacular showcase of music, art, and history.
Orre Nobles at Olympus Manor
Step into a rich tapestry of art, music, and history as Hood Canal pays tribute to its creative roots this summer. The 8th Annual Hood Canal Music and Art Festival (Hoodstock) in Union, Washington is not just a lineup of modern performances—it’s a heartfelt homage to the illustrious artist colony that has defined this region since the early 1900s.
Long before the bohemian artists made “Union City” their home, the shores of Hood Canal were home to Native American tribes. Through carving, weaving, music, and storytelling, Hood Canal's first peoples expressed a connection to the land and waters, laying a foundation for a region defined by creativity.
The early 20th century saw the rise of flourishing art communities along Hood Canal, none more captivating than the Artist Colony of Olympus Manor. From 1924 to 1952, Olympus Manor was a beacon for the arts, attracting painters, sculptors, and bohemians alike. At the center of this vibrant colony was Orre Nobles, whose influence and passion for art continues to inspire present artisans.
Union's August festival embraces the theme “from then to now – the path to Hoodstock.” It’s a celebration of creative journeys that started in the early decades of the last century and continue to evolve in a modern landscape rich with musical and artistic expression. The festival offers an immersive experience that bridges eras with unique events planned to enchant both loyal art devotees and curious newcomers alike.
Honoring the Past: Revel in the rich history of the Olympus Manor artist’s colony spotlighting works and narratives that bring to life the era of Orre Nobles, Frank Pixley and Waldo Chase.
Embracing the Present: Performances by rising artists and musicians, blending genres and styles in a way that pays homage to past innovations while paving the way for future creative endeavors
Celebrating the Future: With diverse musical acts on land and at sea, the festival’s multiple stages ensure there is something for every art and music lover.
Mount Rose: Summer hike with a climb
This hike is one of the steepest in the Olympics but with a blanket of wildflowers and stunning views, it is well worth the climb! With a nod to William Shakespeare, that which we call Mount Rose by any other name would still be as steep!
Story and pictures: Craig Romano
This hike isn’t terribly long. And its trailhead is fairly easy to reach via mainly good paved roads. The trail traverses impressive towering old-growth forest. And in summer wildflowers brighten the forest floor and decorate summer ledges. Views? They’re stunning, especially of Lake Cushman sparkling 3,500-feet directly below. But every rose has its thorn. And for Mount Rose, all of this natural beauty and splendor comes at a steep price—literally. This hike is one of the steepest in the Olympics.
Hit the Trail
Yes, the trail up Mount Rose is grueling. But it makes this hike all that much sweeter by weeding out the crowds. Rose makes for an excellent quieter alternative to nearby Mount Ellinor. And being more than 1,000 feet lower than that popular peak means a longer snow free hiking season on Rose. And while handfuls of hikers may swear off this mountain—plenty swear by it and swear on it while going up it. They embrace its steepness as a great conditioner for harder hikes planned later in the season. In any case, do not under estimate this hike. Trekking poles will significantly help—especially on the insanely steep descent. And take plenty of water.
The trail starts out deceptively easy on a fairly level traverse along the base of the mountain. After crossing a pair of cascading creeks and passing a square-shaped builder shrouded in ferns the way gets down to business. A seemingly endless procession of switchbacks will keep you occupied. And if you think the going is steep—it used to be steeper! The all-volunteer Mount Rose Trail Crew reconfigured and rebuilt much of this trail several years ago, making it much more negotiable. The Mount Rose Trail Crew has left their positive marks on many of the trails in the Lake Cushman area.
Much of the lower mountain is covered in uniform second growth forest thanks to fires early in the last century. But a handful of surviving towering old-growth giants break the monotony of the younger forest. The trail enters the 13,000 Mount Skokomish Wilderness, one of five wilderness areas in Olympic National Forest flanking Olympic National Park. At just shy of 2.0 miles (although it may feel a lot longer) the trail reaches the summit loop junction. Here a small plaque honors the crew that built this trail.
Which direction you take the loop is dependent on your preference. The way left is much steeper which for many is easier to ascend than descend. But if you head right instead you will reach the scenic payoff later—prolonging the anticipation. Most folks head left first to tackle 1300 feet of ascent within a mile. The way relentlessly climbs passing through dark moist forest before transitioning to a forest recovering from a 2006 wildfire. At 2.9 miles from the trailhead reach the 4301-foot open-forested summit. Your attention will be immediately drawn to sparkling Lake Cushman below. It’s a breathtaking view of the large lake cradled by steep emerald slopes. But do scan the lake’s surroundings too admiring Lightning Peak and Timber Mountain rising majestically above it. Take in views too of Wonder Mountain and Church Peak to the southwest; and the Skokomish delta, Black Hills, Willapa Hills, and Mount Rainier to the south. And catch glimpses through silver snags and white pines of the deep valley of the North Fork Skokomish River.
After admiring the stunning views, continue on the loop along a narrow forested ledge. Along the way you’ll be greeted with more fine views including close ups of Copper Mountain towering above you and Hood Canal in the distance. The way then enters impressive old-growth forest and passes a fascinating colonnade of four silver firs. They’ve grown so close together they appear fused. The summit loop will deliver you back to a familiar junction from where a brutal descent will deliver you back to the trailhead.
Mount Rose’s views are indeed sweet. But the mountain’s summit floral show can be equally stunning. The mountain however is not named for roses, of which four native species grow in the Olympics. The mountain takes its name from Alfred A. Rose, who in 1885 arrived in the valley below with his wife and three children from California. Rose was one of the first non-native settlers in the valley, claiming 150 acres along Lake Cushman. But his tenure here was short. He succumbed to small pox four years later. In 1926 the lake was dammed greatly increasing its size and inundating Rose’s original homestead as well as other early settlements. I’m not sure if Rose ever grunted to the summit that bears his name. But with a nod to William Shakespeare, that which we call Mount Rose by any other name would still be as steep!
Bluegrass from the Forest Celebrates 20 years!
This three day outdoor music festival is fun for the whole family with headliner national bands daily, workshops, kids activities and programs and event a Saturday night dance!
July is an exciting time for Bluegrass fans in Mason County with the annual Bluegrass From the Forest festival at the Soccer Park on John's Prairie. This outdoor event fills the 15-acre park with music, workshops, and camping, making it a highlight of the Northwest Bluegrass scene. Celebrating 20 years in 2025, the festival includes a band scramble, workshops for kids, and a lineup of national and regional bands. With two stages, a beer and wine garden, food vendors, and ample camping spots, the festival is designed for families and people of all ages, offering workshops and tastings between performances.
The music ranges from traditional to more progressive bluegrass. The Festival’s program lineup features four major concerts highlighting top talent on the west coast. Saturday features "midnight hot-dogs" after the country dance. Camp jamming halts momentarily as the pickers and families join the musicians for a midnight feast in the main tent.
2025 Headliner Bands:
Seth Mulder & Midnight Run
Seth Mulder & Midnight Run, formed in 2018 in Tennessee's first legal moonshine distillery, mix tradition and innovation through authentic songs and thoughtful arrangements. Their music combines bluegrass, country, and folk, appealing to both traditional and modern listeners. They released their debut album, "Traveling Kind," in 2020 and followed up with "In Dreams I Go Back" in 2022 on Mountain Fever Records. Fans can look forward to new music in 2024, establishing the band as a true voice in roots and bluegrass music. Known as one of the most entertaining new acts in bluegrass today, Seth Mulder & Midnight Run is a band to see.
Never Come Down
Never Come Down is a band from Portland, Oregon that combines modern and traditional American music. They focus on meaningful lyrics and impressive arrangements. Formed in 2018, they released their first album, “Better Late Than Never,” in 2021. The band has toured globally and gained recognition at international festivals.
Midnight45
This talented band showcases impressive singing and playing skills. Based in Central and Western Oregon, Midnight45 focuses on deep-groove bluegrass music with a strong traditional style. They play both traditional and modern bluegrass, including original songs and classic country duets. Each member is an experienced musician, having performed in top bluegrass bands on the west coast.
Jim Hurst
Jim Hurst's distinctive guitar playing and bluegrass skills impress audiences and are admired by beginners and fellow musicians alike. His diverse career makes him an exceptional performer, a skilled teacher, and a sought-after session musician. Jim's friendly nature makes him easy to approach. He received the IBMA "Guitar Player of the Year" award in 2001 and 2002. After working with notable artists like Trisha Yearwood and Sara Evans, he started a solo career to showcase his own music. Jim has released 7 CDs and has been performing and teaching at workshops across North America and Europe for the past ten years. While he sometimes collaborates with other bluegrass artists, his solo acts and performances with the Jim Hurst Trio consistently captivate audiences.
The Oly Mountain Boys
The Oly Mountain Boys are a bluegrass band from South Puget Sound, performing in Olympia, Washington since 2008. They mix traditional songs with their own music, highlighting the strength of American bluegrass.
Way Far Yonder
Way Far Yonder is a new band from Eugene, Oregon. It features banjo player Henry Strid and champion fiddler Doug Fleener. They bring an energetic vibe with a classic fiddle and banjo sound.
Runaway Train Bluegrass
If you enjoy traditional bluegrass with a twist, you'll love Runaway Train Bluegrass! They are known for their harmonies and skillful playing. A popular band in the Pacific Northwest, they perform at special events when they can. They host the Bluegrass from the Forest festival and help organize it each year.
The Bar-K Buckaroos
The Bar-K Buckaroos will perform at the Saturday Night Country Dance, playing traditional western swing music like Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys. They mix Bluegrass, Country, Swing, Jazz, Blues, and Reggae for a fun night of music from the 20s to the 40s.
More than just great headiners! Fun for the whole family!
photo:Nancy Bay
The three day festival includes food, camping, and workshops, plus a Saturday night dance with free midnight hotdogs. It offers many activities for the whole family, including the popular Chick Rose School of Bluegrass for kids. This program starts Saturday morning and divides kids by skill level, allowing them to learn from experienced musicians and perform on the main stage. In addition to the bluegrass activities, there are various instrument and vocal workshops, concerts, and more throughout the weekend.
For additional details on band bios, ticket and camping reservations, visit bluegrassfromtheforest.com. Early Bird ticket pricing is available through until June 20.
Fjordin Crossin embraces tradition
Join the Hardware Distillery and Hood Canal Events to celebrate the annual crossing with a regatta and paddle race; music, food, kids' activities and an "Aquavit Grotto" under the pier.
Fjordin Crossin embraces an old world Scandinavian tradition of the spirit “aquavit”, with a series of unique events at the beach in Hoodsport, WA – a nordic parade, a barrel crossing, a family-friendly paddle race, drinks, vendors and food and, after the tide pushes the celebration back to the shore, the after-party continues on the streets of Hoodsport.
An Aquavit tradition
In 1805 a special brand of aquavit, Linie aquavit, crossed the Equator from Norway bound for the East Indies, unsold it returned to Norway in 1807. It turned out that the sea voyage had a positive effect on the taste of the spirit. The old sailing ships have vanished, but Linie Aquavit still crosses the Equator on the deck of a ship and returns via Australia. It has become a celebrated aquavit tradition.
Saturday, June 28, the Hardware Distillery will once again launch a barrel of aged dill aquavit to cross Hood Canal from Hoodsport to Tahuya and back. Although the journey will not take four months (the current sea rocking schedule of a traditional cask of Linie), each mouthful will contain the memory of its fjord voyage.
Paddle the Canal Challenge
Over the last half decade it has grown to include a non-motorized paddle across the canal challenge hosted by Hood Canal Events. Participants can bring their own watercraft, rent on site, or, if they have no desire to paddle but want to be part of the excitement --book passage on Lady Alderbrook from Alderbrook Resort, to cross Hood Canal alongside the barrel. On board the Lady Alderbrook aquavit cocktails are served, and participants take in the day’s festivities from the center of the action. Purchase advance tickets from Alderbrook Resort and Spa (Union).
Ready to compete?
Learn more information, how to register and sign your required waiver. Kids 9 and under are FREE but must still register. This year's prizes include a night's stay in Hoodsport, a gift certificate to Hardware Distillery (get your Aquavit asap!), and goodies from our vendors. REGISTRATION FEE : Early bird rates until June 6 –, $30 adults/$15 kids (10-17). REGISTRATION CLOSES June 26 at 8PM to collect information and prep for the race!
To celebrate the launch, the Paddle the Canal “race” follows the barrel journey in canoes, kayaks, SUPs and small sailboats. Bring your own boat or rent from Hood Canal Adventures. The Paddle has partnered with HCE to offer same day kayak rentals onsite. Singles and Doubles available in advance.
Shore Side Activities
On shore there is plenty to do including vendors, oysters, a parade, artisans and children's crafts. The Aquavit Grotto serves cocktails on the beach as they await the arrival of the tide which will eventually send them to higher ground and move the events into the main street of Hoodsport where attendees will find additional activities offered by local businesses.
Schedule
11:00 AM – Food, libations, and vendors open at the Hoodsport Dock. Paddle the Canal registration open.
12:40 PM – Parade from the Distillery to the dock with the barrel of Aquavit. Led by Scandinavian musicians.
1:00 PM – Crossing the Fjord begins: Barrel of aged Dill Aquavit travels from the Port of Hoodsport toward Tahuya and back, and when it returns, the Aquavit has been Fjordin Crossin. The Paddle the Canal challenge begins.Family and pet friendly paddle comprised of canoes, kayaks, SUPs and/or small sailboats. The Lady Alderbrook arrives. Guests on the boat cheer on Paddle participants, and enjoy Hardware Distillery aquavit cocktails.
2:00 PM – Award ceremony and prizes for the Paddle Challengers.
3:00 PM – After party in Hoodsport. Visit the shops, restaurants, distillery and brewery.
Jellyfish : grace in the current
Gliding through the green summer currents, jellyfish seem to exist somewhere between matter and myth—elegant, translucent, and suspended in a world shaped by light and movement. Though often dismissed as pests or feared for their sting, these gelatinous invertebrates are a vital and beautiful part of the ocean’s marine ecology, especially during the warmer months
Thom Robbins | Story & pictures
Gliding through the green summer currents of the Salish Sea, jellyfish seem to exist somewhere between matter and myth—elegant, translucent, and suspended in a world shaped by light and movement. Though often dismissed as pests or feared for their sting, these gelatinous invertebrates are a vital and beautiful part of the Salish Sea’s marine ecology, especially during the warmer months.
At least 10 known species of jellyfish (Class Scyphozoa and Hydrozoa) are commonly found in the Salish Sea. However, the exact number varies depending on seasonal conditions and depth. The region also hosts a variety of hydromedusae, small jellyfish-like organisms from the class Hydrozoa and ctenophores (comb jellies), which are not true jellyfish but are often seen alongside them.
In the summer, diving in the Salish Sea isn’t about crystal-clear views but seeing what moves through the murk. As the surface waters warm, sunlight and nutrients combine to spark massive phytoplankton and algae blooms. These microscopic organisms flourish in the long daylight hours, turning the water cloudy green and dramatically reducing visibility.
At the same time, nutrient-rich upwelling from deeper waters feeds this explosion of life, creating a cascading effect through the food web. These blooms nourish jellyfish and other filter feeders, yet they can also trigger oxygen depletion in deeper layers—a process known as eutrophication. As algae and plankton die off and decompose, they consume oxygen, sometimes creating low-oxygen zones that drive fish and invertebrates like wolf eels into shallower waters, or out of the area entirely.
Despite the haze, the midwater teems with motion. Jellyfish pulse silently past in the filtered light, their delicate forms catching the sun like drifting ornaments. I’ve hovered motionless on some dives as dozens of moon jellies passed—some brushed softly against my mask. In those moments, the murk becomes a cathedral, lit not by clarity but movement. Among the most commonly seen is the Moon Jelly (Aurelia labiate). Recognizable by its delicate, bell-shaped body and the four horseshoe-shaped gonads visible through its dome, the moon jelly is both harmless and hypnotic. Although capable of stinging, its venom is so weak that divers typically feel nothing more than a light brush, if anything at all.
Another summer highlight is the Fried Egg jelly (Phacellophora camtschatica), which drifts through the current like a golden sun. Its yolk-colored center and frilled white tentacles make it one of the most photogenic creatures in the water column. Despite its size, it poses little threat to swimmers or divers. Less frequent but unforgettable is the Lion’s Mane jellyfish (Cyanea capillata)—the world's largest known jellyfish species. Its tentacles can grow over 30 meters long in Arctic populations, though those found in the Salish Sea are often smaller. Its sting is more noticeable, though rarely dangerous, and it tends to favor colder, deeper waters where few divers tread.
Jellyfish have been drifting through Earth’s oceans for over 500 million years, long before dinosaurs roamed the land or fish evolved bones. Fossil evidence shows that their basic body plan has remained remarkably unchanged, a testament to just how well-adapted they are to life in the water column. These ancient invertebrates are one of the oldest animal groups on Earth. Unlike many marine organisms, jellyfish never developed hard skeletons or complex organs. Instead, they relied on simplicity and flexibility: a hydrostatic body, a decentralized nerve net, and the ability to reproduce both sexually and asexually.
“Their survival lies in elegant simplicity. Jellyfish drift with currents, respond to light and nutrients, and reproduce quickly when conditions align—strategies that have carried them through five mass extinctions. Most jellyfish species live only a few months in their adult medusa form.”
In the Salish Sea, each summer bloom connects us to this deep evolutionary past. To hover among these creatures is to glimpse a lineage nearly as old as the ocean itself. Their movements may be fleeting, but their presence speaks to a legacy stretching back over 500 million years.
Built to Drift
Though they seem simple, jellyfish are highly specialized. With no bones, brains, or hearts, they are built to drift. The jellyfish found in the Salish Sea all share the same basic anatomy, but with fascinating variations.
At the center of a jellyfish’s structure is its bell, the umbrella-like dome that pulsates to move it through the water. This bell is made of a gelatinous material composed chiefly of water, up to 95% in most species. Radial canals branch from the stomach, distributing nutrients throughout the bell.
Larger predators also take an interest. Occasionally, ocean sunfish (Mola mola)—the world’s largest bony fish—wander into the Salish Sea, and jellyfish are a favorite food. Their thick skin protects them from stings as they chomp through even the largest medusae. Historically, leatherback sea turtles, specializing in eating jellyfish, may have traveled this far north, though sightings today are extremely rare.
Even other jellyfish can be predators. With its long, trailing tentacles, the fried egg jelly often feeds on smaller jellyfish that become ensnared in its stinging threads. It’s a quiet cannibalism, part of the natural food web.
Jellyfish can be an unexpected snack for juvenile salmon, especially pink and chum. These young fish sometimes feed on tiny jellies and jelly-like plankton as they migrate through the sea, supplementing their diets during their early life stages. When a jellyfish’s life ends and it sinks to the seafloor, crabs, sea stars, and other scavengers move in. They scavenge the soft tissue, recycling the jelly’s nutrients into the ecosystem.
For all their fragile, ghost-like appearance, jellyfish play a key role in the Salish Sea’s complex food web, both predator and prey. Their presence supports a range of species, many of which rely on these gelatinous drifters more than most people realize.
Unlike animals with hearts and blood vessels, jellyfish lack a true circulatory system. Instead, they rely on the simple structure of their bodies to move nutrients. Through a combination of internal canals and diffusion, the passive movement of molecules from areas of high concentration to low, nutrients are spread throughout the jellyfish's tissues. This efficient, low-energy system works because jellyfish are composed mainly of water and have thin, soft bodies, allowing nutrients and gases to move freely without blood or vessels.
Jellyfish lack a brain but rely on a decentralized nerve net to detect touch, orientation, and light. Around the bell’s rim are specialized sensory structures called rhopalia, which contain balance organs (statocysts) and light-sensitive spots (ocelli). These help jellyfish maintain their position in the water column and respond to environmental changes. In many species, like the Moon Jelly, you can see the four gonads (reproductive organs) through the bell. These are typically arranged symmetrically and give the jelly its iconic pattern. Jellyfish are usually gonochoric, meaning individuals are either male or female, though some species can change sex depending on environmental conditions.
Though they may appear delicate, jellyfish anatomy is an evolutionary success story, fine-tuned over half a billion years. Every structure, from the trailing tentacle to the light-detecting rhopalium, keeps these animals alive in a constantly shifting marine world.
Born of Water
Jellyfish have one of the most complex and fascinating life cycles in the animal kingdom, cycling between two distinct forms: the polyp and the medusa. Most of the jellyfish we see while diving are medusae—the free-swimming, bell-shaped adults. But before reaching this stage, each jellyfish begins life as a microscopic larva called a planula, which settles onto a hard surface and develops into a polyp. These polyps can remain dormant for years, cloning themselves and waiting for the right environmental cues—usually a change in temperature or light—to begin a process called strobilation.
During strobilation, the polyp stacks tiny disc-like ephyrae that break off and develop into juvenile jellies. This ability to clone and reproduce asexually means jellyfish can quickly take advantage of favorable conditions, leading to the massive blooms divers witness during Salish Sea summers. Some polyps may produce genetically identical clones, while others undergo sexual reproduction to introduce new genetic material.
In particular, Moon Jellies are known for their resilience and adaptability. They can tolerate low-oxygen conditions better than many other marine organisms, allowing them to thrive in increasingly stressed ecosystems. Crystal Jellies exhibit a unique form of reproduction in which males and females release gametes into the water column, a method known as broadcast spawning—one of the most ancient reproductive strategies in the ocean.
Hanging beneath the bell, a jellyfish’s tentacles and oral arms serve as its defense system and means of feeding. Along the tentacles are thousands of specialized stinging cells called cnidocytes, each containing a microscopic harpoon-like structure known as a nematocyst. When triggered by touch or the presence of prey, these structures fire, delivering venom that can stun or immobilize small organisms. Moon jellies don’t chase their meals—they drift with open arms through clouds of plankton, letting the current deliver each bite. Their tentacles sweep plankton, tiny crustaceans, and larval fish toward their fringe of short, frilly oral arms, transporting the food to the central mouth.
The fried egg jelly takes a slightly different approach. Its long tentacles snare zooplankton and smaller jellyfish, which are slowly drawn to its oral arms for digestion. Large and dramatic, it feeds with quiet efficiency, drifting through the current, letting the ocean deliver each meal. But while they drift and feed with effortless grace, jellyfish are also food for a surprising array of marine life. Sea anemones, rooted to rocks and pilings, often snatch passing jellies with their sticky tentacles. If a moon jelly drifts too close or becomes weakened, an anemone will pull it in, undeterred by the jelly’s stinging cells. Whenever I run across this it always looks like a child sucking in a plate of spaghetti.
Conservation
Although jellyfish are often seen as survivors—creatures that thrive where others struggle—they are also indicators of broader changes in marine ecosystems. In the Salish Sea, shifts in jellyfish populations can reflect changes in water temperature, nutrient levels, and even human impacts such as coastal development and pollution.
For instance, increased runoff from agriculture and urban development introduces nutrients that can intensify plankton blooms, indirectly supporting larger jellyfish populations. While this may seem like a success story for jellies, it often signals ecosystem imbalance. In extreme cases, jellyfish blooms can disrupt fisheries by clogging nets, consuming fish larvae, and competing with commercial species for food. Plastic pollution also poses a risk. Jellyfish sometimes ingest microplastics, mistaking them for prey, and may in turn be eaten by larger animals like salmon or sea turtles, passing toxins up the food chain. Interestingly, the translucent structure of jellyfish makes them particularly difficult to spot when entangled in discarded fishing gear, meaning they can suffer unnoticed in ghost nets.
Despite these concerns, jellyfish have become unlikely ambassadors for science, conservation, and discovery. One of the most important breakthroughs in modern biology came from the Crystal Jelly, found off the coast of Friday Harbor. Scientists discovered green fluorescent protein (GFP) in this species—a molecule that glows green under ultraviolet light. GFP acts like a molecular flashlight when inserted into other organisms, allowing researchers to track genes and observe biological processes in real time. This discovery revolutionized genetic and medical research, earning a Nobel Prize and highlighting the hidden value of marine life.
Conclusion
Encountering jellyfish while diving in the Salish Sea is never ordinary. Whether it’s a Moon's hypnotic pulse or a Crystal's rare glow, these animals embody a unique blend of grace, resilience, and ecological importance. They are living filters, slow-motion drifters, and seasonal storytellers, revealing much about the world beneath the waves. While some may still associate jellyfish with stings or beach closures, divers know better. To hover beside a jelly in its element is to witness nature in its purest form—unhurried, mysterious, and vital. In a time when ocean health is at risk, jellyfish remind us that beauty and science are not separate but intertwined. Their presence is more than a summer spectacle—it’s a quiet signal that even the oldest life forms still move among us, pulsing with stories the sea has never stopped telling. To witness one is to glimpse time suspended—fragile, pulsing, and older than memory
The Elusive Geoduck : Reviled and Reveled
This large saltwater clam derives its common name, geoduck, from a Nisqually word which is said to loosely translate as “dig deep.” Don’t let their awkward looks deter you. Prepared right, this misunderstood bivalve is versatile and utterly delicious.
This large saltwater clam derives its common name, geoduck, from a Nisqually word which is said to loosely translate as “dig deep.” Don’t let their awkward looks deter you. Prepared right, this misunderstood bivalve is versatile and utterly delicious.
The geoduck is native to intertidal and sub-tidal waters from Alaska to California. With a shell that ranges from just 6 – 8 inches, the long siphon, or neck, makes it the largest burrowing clam in the world. In fact, a geoduck’s neck can be as long as three and a half feet in length. So large that even from when it is small as an inch, it cannot be withdrawn into the shell.
Geoduck attain maximum size at age fifteen, but are one of the longest living animals in the world. The typical lifespan of a wild geoduck can range to 140 years. The oldest being recorded at 168 years. Buried three feet deep in mud or sand, once they make it through their fragile adolescence, these giant clams do a fantastic job of keeping safe with their thick unpalatable skin.
Farmed geoduck
It takes about six years to raise a farmed geoduck to market. Beginning life in a hatchery tank, the small seed (about one inch long), are “planted” in the soft sand in the intertidal and protected with PVC tubes. The covered tube keeps them safe from predators until they are large enough to dig deeper.
Natural beds of geoducks grow on many of Washington’s public beaches with Puget Sound and Hood Canal containing the most abundant populations available for public digging. The best places to see experienced diggers capturing these big clams are at the Duckabush and Dosewallips State Park on Hood Canal. If you can’t harvest your own, head over to one of the restaurants and markets listed below or order fresh online.
Preparing Geoduck
Preparing a geoduck can seem overwhelming but it is surprisingly simple:
Boil a pot of water and prepare a bowl of ice water large enough to fit your geoduck. Using tongs, immerse the whole clam in the hot water for about six seconds.
Immerse it in the ice bath for about the same amount of time. Holding the shell with one hand, run the blade of your knife along the inside of the shell and extract the body from the shell.
Grasp the tough outer tube that surrounds the siphon meat and pull. The hot water and ice bath will have effectively separated the thick skin from the tender neck meat.
Discard the bulbous stomach and your efforts will be rewarded with tender meat from the body and the tougher but just as tasty meat from the siphon. The siphon meat is often ground to make chowder or patties.
Prepared Geoduck: tide to table
Just like being elusive to catch, geoduck can be difficult to find at restaurants. Fortunately in Washington some of the biggest producers of geoduck also have their own restaurants that they can supply this year round delicacy.
Here are a few South Puget Sound farmers that really know their Ducks:
Chelsea Farms and Oyster Bar
222 Capitol Way N
Olympia, WA 98501
Phone: (360) 915-7784
Chelsea Farms first made their mark on Olympia’s map in 1987 when Linda and John Lentz started their adventures in sustainable shellfish farming. Their legacy continues with the next generation, Shina and Kyle.
Taylor Shellfish Retail Store and Oyster Bars throughout WA
130 SE Lynch RD Shelton WA, 98584
PHONE: (360) 432-3300
Hours: Open for curbside pick up Monday - Sunday: 10am - 6:00pm; Closed all major holidays
Taylor Shellfish Farms harvests their own farmed geoduck from the Puget Sound. At their oyster bars across the state, diners can sample fresh geoduck sashimi with sesame ginger lime dressing. The giant clam is also used in Taylor Sheellfish Farms’ Northwest Chowder. Product also available online and shipped directly to your home.
Fjord Oyster Bank Restaurant
24341 N Hwy 101, Hoodsport
Phone: (360) 877-2102
Hours: THUR-FRI 5PM-8PM, SAT & SUN 1PM - 7PM | Closed MON-WED
The Fjord celebrates the recipes of Xinh Dwelley who was known for her acumen with geoduck. Available at the restaurant are sashimi, geoduck wontons, fritters, geoduck chowder, and ceviche. The Fjord sources their geoduck from commercial farmer on Harstine Island.
Step back in time this weekend in Matlock
The Old Timer's Fair celebrates Matlock’s timber heritage with living historic display and antique swap meet booths. Attendees enjoy kids’ activities, hand-crafted items, agricultural displays, food, prizes and live music.
This weekend, May 3-4, an army of dedicated volunteers from the tiny Mason County town of Matlock transform their local school grounds and invite attendees to step back to simpler time of homemade pies, tractor rides and country dances. This Rockwellesque celebration is the perfect way to get your family back into the swing of community events!
The Fair provides fun for the whole family and admission is free. Delicious country fair food – especially the homemade pies (try a piece and take home the whole pie) and a community welcome are the hallmarks of this decades old tradition. Enjoy living forestry and farming historical displays, craft and historical exhibits and find your feet tapping to the live music on two stages. One stage is indoor, with comfortable seating warm and out of the rain should a May shower visit the event.
The fair celebrates Matlock’s heritage in the timber industry, with draft horses, early day machines and motors as well as blacksmithing and an entire gym filled with antique booths. In addition enjoy kids’ activities, hand-crafted items, historical events, agricultural events, food, a firewood raffle, prizes and live music.
Most of the displays are inside and surrounding the school buildings and be sure to stop by the John Tornow exhibit located anear the main stage.. This is the story an "Unsolved mystery," a century later. “Victim or Villain?” is the true story of events a century old. John Tornow lived in the Matlock area and his memory lives on her e and at the Matlock Historical Museum open during the Fair.
Other attractions include kids train rides, tractor pulls, plant and starter vegetable sale, crafts and antique booths, and live demonstrations of the Dolbeer steam donkey. Sunday features antique and classic cars , tractors and steam engines. Saturday enjoy a pulled pork dinner and silent auctions. There will also be a corn hole championship new this year!
This year the event is hosted May 3-4 with the fair open 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM on Saturday and 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Sunday.
The event is located at 2987 Matlock-Brady Rd., about five miles south of the Matlock store and 15 miles north on Highway 8. For additional details visit the event page. FREE
Pedaling the historic tracks
Here’s what to expect when you pedal the rails on the historic Simpson Logging tracks near Shelton.
Vance Creek Railriders, located near Matlock, is a popular activity near Shelton, WA. Have you made your reservations yet?
The rails are part of an old track built by the Simpson Logging Company, so along with clacking past beautiful wooded scenery, passing meadows of foxgloves and crossing over creeks lined with ferns, Vance Creek’s rail journey follows a snapshot of the Northwest’s rich logging history. Until not that long ago, timber trains moved logs along these very rails to the mills in nearby Shelton, in fact this system was the last operating privately-owned logging railroad in the continental US.
When you arrive, don't be alarmed when you leave the main road for a short hop on a gravel logging road to Camp 1. The gravel road is well maintained (even the school bus follows it in rural Mason County), you will soon find yourself at the Vance Creek Railriders office. Arrive 30 minutes early as there is a safety briefing before heading out to get adjusted in your seats.
What to Expect
As you pedal the multi-seat "railrider" along the track you will have the opportunity to see old growth and new forests as well as diverse meadows teeming with wild flowers, moss, and maybe even catch a glimpse of some wildlife – although cheering, laughter and distinctive trail clacking seems to put them on the alert! You will pedal down across the winding Goldsborough Creek and return back up the gradual grade.
Yes, despite its leisurely pace, this is a physical adventure. Most guests are able to pedal the average .75% grade back up to Camp 1 with a portion of the rail at a 2% grade (it’s all downhill on the way there) . But don’t worry – if you struggle, the little “engine” will give you a push back up the slight grade if needed.
This gentle, but vigorous ride is suitable for (and enjoyed by) all ages. Chidren under 12 years old need to be accompanied by an adult on their railrider (four seats). The typical age to be able to help pedal is 6-8 years old depending on leg length. Smaller children who can’t touch the pedals or who are known to be a wiggle worms can use a car seat. Visit the Vance Creek’s FAQ page for answers to common questions.
Be sure to dress in layers as you will be traveling in wooded area where it can go from shade to sun. Also bring snacks and water bottle as the location of the start of the railride is fairly distant from Shelton.
Reserve in Advance
Opening Day is May 17, 202
The popular pedal-powered rail rides with Vance Creek Railriders opens for their 2025 season on May 17 with daily departures of the 2-hour excursion at 9 AM, 12 PM, and 3 PM, Thursday through Monday. Arrive 30 minutes early to check in and hear a safety briefing.
The rail head is at 421 West Hanks Lake Road, nine miles west of Hwy 101 on the Shelton/Matlock Rd.
Rowboats and Recitals: The Story of Mason County’s Early Schools
In this feature, Explore Hood Canal visits the Mason County Historical Society Museum in downtown Shelton to explore “More Than a Building,” a powerful exhibit on the early schools of Mason County. Featuring insights from curator Liz Arbaugh, this video reveals how schools were the heart of tiny communities—from tribal lands to logging camps.
What if I told you the quiet forests and mossy clearings of Mason County once echoed with the sound of children learning—and even rowing boats just to get to class? In this feature, Explore Hood Canal visits the Mason County Historical Society Museum in downtown Shelton to explore “More Than a Building,” a powerful exhibit on the early schools of Mason County. Featuring insights from curator Liz Arbaugh, this video reveals how schools were the heart of tiny communities—from tribal lands to logging camps.
📍 Visit the museum: 427 W Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA 98584
👨💻 Online: www.masoncountyhistoricalsociety.org
🗂️ View the exhibit and the Dayton archives
🎄 Learn about schoolhouse dances, Christmas parties, and how education shaped this region
💬 Leave a comment if you remember your Mason County school days!
#MasonCountyHistory #SheltonWA #HistoricalSchools #PacificNorthwestHistory #ExploreHoodCanal
Roam Wolfdog Sanctuary Offers Education Tours
Nestled in the forest outside Shelton in Mason County, the ROAM Wolfdog Sanctuary provides a home for some of the most misunderstood animals in the world—wolfdogs.
Story: Jeff Slakey
Amongst the woods outside Shelton, off Highway 101, the ROAM Wolfdog Sanctuary provides a home for some of the most misunderstood animals in the world—wolfdogs. On a sprawling 40-acre property, the sanctuary educates the public, advocates for conservation, and provides a safe, enriching life.
photo credit: ROAM Wolfdog Sanctuary
Every wolfdog at ROAM has a story, and most share a similar beginning. They were bred to be pets, then abandoned or surrendered when their owners realized they weren't suited for a domestic lifestyle. "All of these animals here were bred to be somebody's pet," explains Jody Woolard, sanctuary's founder. "They want to mimic something that looks like it just walked out of Yellowstone Park, but they require a lifestyle that most people aren't prepared for."
Unlike dogs, wolfdogs have wild instincts that make them difficult to manage in a home environment. They require large enclosures, an all-raw diet, and specialized care. Many are high-content wolfdogs, meaning they have over 90% wolf DNA. While some enjoy meeting people, others take their time warming up to new faces.
One of the biggest misconceptions about wolfdogs is that they make good guard dogs. In reality, they tend to be skittish rather than protective. "They are not house pets," Woolard says. "They need to be outside. They need enclosures with eight-foot-tall fencing and dig guards so they can't escape."
Their diet is also unique. "They eat raw," says animal caretaker Reanna Warren. "Chicken, steak, pork—sometimes beef, but they're picky. They won't touch boneless, skinless chicken, and if it's ground beef, it has to be frozen."
ROAM is not only a shelter—it's a permanent home for its residents. Each enclosure spans about an acre, giving the animals space to roam while protecting the public. "We try to create an environment for them that is as natural as possible," Woolard says. "In the winter, we get snow, which they love. And in the summer, the forest keeps it from getting too hot."
Community plays a role in keeping the sanctuary running. Volunteers come to help clean enclosures and construct new habitats. Food donations come from local grocery stores and hunters. For visitors, a tour of ROAM is a chance to see these animals up close and learn about wolves' vital role in the ecosystem. "Wolves keep deer and elk populations in check, which benefits many other plant and animal species," explains Woolard. "But in some regions, they're still being hunted. Nearly 1,000 wolves in the Northern Rocky Mountains were killed last year alone."
Touring ROAM
Tours at ROAM last about 90 minutes and offer an up-close look at the lives of these animals. Visitors can witness a playful interaction between Issabel and Kovu, a bonding moment between Pretty Boy Floyd and Felony, or even hear the pack's haunting howls echoing through the trees. "Two of our neighbors leave their windows open at night just to hear the howling," Woolard shares.
As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, ROAM relies on donations and sponsorships to continue its mission. "Every year, wolfdogs are abandoned, rescued, or euthanized because people purchased an animal they weren't prepared to care for," says Woolard. Sponsorships cover food costs, medical care, and facility maintenance, ensuring the wolfdogs can live out their life safely and comfortably.
Another way you can help is by spreading awareness about ROAM, the wolfdogs, and the importance of conservation. "Education is key," Woolard says. "The more people understand these animals, the better we can protect both them and their wild counterparts."
So, if you're a wildlife enthusiast, an advocate for conservation, or someone looking for a unique experience in Mason County, a visit to ROAM Wolfdog Sanctuary is sure to leave you with a newfound respect for these remarkable animals.
To learn more or schedule a tour, visit their website, roamwithus.org or come to ROAM with the pack. The Guided Educational Tours at Roam cater to wildlife enthusiasts, animal lovers, students, and families seeking an enriching and educational experience. This exclusive opportunity allows guests to engage with wolfdogs in a meaningful way and support the sanctuary's mission of promoting coexistence and understanding between humans and wildlife.
Lower South Fork Skokomish River trail
Take a hike, run, horseback ride or bike ride on an inviting trail along a wonderful stretch of the river. Admire surviving groves of towering old-growth, recovering old harvest areas, and a watershed coming back to life.
Craig Romano | Story & Pictures
One of the most heavily logged watersheds in the Olympics—clear cutting and increased sedimentation has taken its toll on this vital river. But in the last two decades a diverse consortium of agencies, non-profis, Skokomish Tribal members, business interests and local folks have begun the process of restoring the South Fork Skokomish back to being a healthy and productive river.
Take a hike, run, horseback ride or bike ride on an inviting trail along a wonderful stretch of the river. Admire surviving groves of towering old-growth, recovering old harvest areas, and a watershed coming back to life.
Hit the Trail
The South Fork Skokomish River along with the North Fork form the Skokomish River in a broad valley in the Olympic Mountains foothills. Here the river flows a short distance east to a large delta at Hood Canal’s Great Bend. It’s the largest river system emptying into Hood Canal. The North Fork is dammed at two locations, while the South Fork flows freely. However much of the South Fork faced major degradation due to extensive logging. Where it flows through national forest and private timberland once contained one of the densest concentrations of logging roads in the state.
Before logging began at a rapid pace after World War II, the Skokomish River, especially its North Fork supported healthy runs of Chinook salmon, steelhead and bull trout. The river is within the traditional lands of the Twana People which comprise of the Skokomish Tribe. Skokomish means “big river people.” The Skokomish People had four winter camps along the North Fork and several summer camps used for elk hunting along the South Fork. Since watershed restoration has begun fish runs have improved. Elk herds in the watershed remain healthy although numbers have recently decreased causing some concern among biologists and wildlife managers.
A trail once ran for more than 40 miles from the settlement of Mohrweis near the river’s South and North Forks’ confluence all the way to the South Fork’s headwaters near Sundown Pass in Olympic National Park. Logging on private and national forest land has obliterated more than half of the historic trail. What remains of the trail was truncated by a Forest Service Road creating a Lower and Upper South Fork Skokomish River Trail.
The upper trail is wilder leading into the national park and is often inaccessible for more than half of the year. Much of the lower trail is open year round making it a wonderful choice for a spring hike.
The lower trail is more than 10 miles long making it a great choice for a long run or bike ride or a one night backpacking trip. But to do the whole trail involves fording the river at 8.6 miles which is dangerous and difficult much of the year. By mid-Summer the river’s usually just shin deep and safe to ford.
From the main trail head on Forest Road 2353 the trail immediately starts climbing and steeply. After ascending about 350 feet up a high bluff above the roaring river, the trail enters a magnificent old-growth grove of Douglas-firs, some over five hundred years old.
As the trail nears the crest of the bluff, a half mile spur trail heads right through beautiful primeval forest to the LeBar Creek Horse Camp. Equestrians usually use this trail head as their starting point on this trail. Just beyond, another path leads right reaching a Forest Service Spur road in a quarter mile.
It offers an approach to avoid the initial climb. The trail now via short, steep switchbacks, drops back to the valley floor. Expect to get your boots wet crossing a cascading creek at the base of the bluff. Then traverse a beautiful glade of mossy maples and alders.
The trail now on a gentle grade passes by more old Douglas-fir giants, as well as a few stumps of cedar giants that were sent to the mills many years ago. At about 1.5 miles the trail reaches a low bluff with a great river view—a good destination for a short hike. From here it continues upriver crossing a side creek in a big-timbered ravine. After a stretch of boardwalk the trail reaches a junction with a trail leading to Forest Road Spur 140. Almost immediately afterward the trail reaches Homestead Camp about 2.2 miles from the main trail head. Here an old ranger guardhouse once stood.
Continue through luxurious river bottom lands crossing more creeks that may wet your boots. The way then pulls away from the river, before dropping back again toward the roaring waterway. The way then traverses more old growth and crosses more side creek, these thankfully are bridged. Admire a nice little cascade before climbing a small bluff. The trail then once again switchbacks down to river level coming to a couple of junctions.
The trail right leads to Forest Road Spur 2355-100. The short spur left leads to Camp Comfort along a wide gravel channel on a river bend. Here at about 5.0 miles from the main trail head is a good turn around spot for a day hike.
If you decide to go farther along the trail;, the way soon reaches an incredible overlook of the river on a bluff high above a big bend, where the river has eaten away at the bluff and trail in the past. Beyond the bluff, the trail is lightly traveled and a little brushy in spots.
It continues on an up-and-down course, before reaching the ford of the South Fork Skokomish (safe only in low flows) at 8.6 miles. It then comes to the historic Church Creek shelter. From here, the tread improves and the trail continues upriver, passing inviting Laney Camp and the spur to the old Camp Harps Shelter site.
At 10.3 miles from the Main Trailhead the trail reaches its upper trailhead on FR 2361 (accessible when FR 2361 is open from May 1 to Sept 30). Beyond, the trail continues as the Upper South Fork Skokomish River Trail traversing old-growth forest and a wilderness valley spared from logging.
Whale watching from the Shores in Hood Canal
The whales are in Hood Canal! These last few weeks Hood Canal and South Puget Sound have produced a lot of exciting sightings of whales in the area.
Walking along the shores of Hood Canal and the waters of Hammersley Inlet you can spot many interesting marine creatures from the lowly (yet delicious) Olympic oyster to the lumbering California sealion. Although not as dependable as catching a glimpse of a harbor seal, or a great blue heron, the sight of an orca (Orcinus orca) is perhaps the most rewarding.
With newborn calves weighing as much as 400 lbs, orcas are the largest species within the oceanic dolphin family. Full grown female orcas may reach lengths of 18-21 feet and weigh as much as 9,000 lbs and males can get to be 21-24 feet and weigh as much as 12,000 lbs. Because of their size these giants need to eat 150-250 pounds of food a day to survive.
Usually traveling in multi-generational pods of two or more family groups, lead by older matriarchs (grandmas) these whales are strongly devoted to family.
The matriarchs have been observed to aid in the raising of their grandchildren (in a way similar to human grandmothers) and, like human females, they live many years past their reproductive age.
The eldest sons and daughters of matriarchs tend to stay with the family unit (or matriline). Researchers using specially adapted microphones hung underwater, have documented that each matriline has distinctive calls special to it and apparently understood within the pod.
This has led some scientists to argue that orcas have dialects and languages, something that no other animals are documented as having (beyond humans).
Orcas are found across the globe, usually favoring cold waters, but they swim to tropical waters to moult their skins. In the Pacific Northwest, researchers have documented three populations of orcas which have distinct feeding and social behaviors: the Transients who prey on other marine mammals, such as dolphins and seals;
The Residents who find sustenance primarily in chinook salmon; and the little understood offshore orca that are found from California to Alaska and are purported to eat fish and varieties of sharks. According to researchers there are no obvious biological reasons why these whales eat such specific food.
In fact, this preference may be starving the chinook dependent Southern Resident whale population seen in the inland waters of the Salish Sea (Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, and Georgia Strait), which are in such small numbers they are listed as endangered in both Canada and the United States.
Researchers have been struggling to save these whales and understand why they do not diversify their feeding habits. The most interesting argument researchers have made is that the Southern Residents, although physically able to eat sea mammals or other fish, have established taboos within their groups that prohibit them – in an essence they have cultural constraints, such as seen amongst humans refusing pork or beef on cultural grounds.
Additionally, Residents and Transients have been observed to actively avoid one another, which is reflected in the fact that the Transients tend to visit the waters of Southern Puget Sound between the months of March and September, when the Southern Residents make their migration out of the Southern Puget Sound area. Genetic research has further revealed that there is no interbreeding between these two groups– almost as if they were a different species.
The Southern Residents may be seen chasing the chinook on their upriver run during the fall from several easily accessibly points on shore: on Hammersley Inlet from Walker Park (near Shelton), on Totten Inlet from the Arcadia Point Boat Launch, on Case Inlet at Latimers Landing, and at the Allyn Waterfront Park.
Along the Hood Canal orcas are more rare, but this Spring, a pod of Transients was spotted several times from the Hood Canal Bridge all the way down to Belfair. This group stayed in the area for quite a while much to the delight of the shore residents.
Before you head out to look for whales, check out the many online resources provided by the Orca Network. They offer a constantly updated list of orca and whale sightings. In May the reports on the Orca Network Sightings orcanetwork.org logged orca sightings along Hood Canal from vantage points at Dabob Bay, Brinnon, Seabeck, Lilliwaup, Potlatch, Union, and Tahuya.
If you plan to search from the shoreline a good pair of binoculars and a zoom lens are recommended. Look for sudden sprays of water and the tell-tale black dorsal fin. If you are searching by boat, exercise caution and remember you are a guest in their waters.
If you see a blow go slow, it is the law in the US to travel less than 7 knots and stay at least ½ mile away when traveling by boat near orcas. If the orcas come closer than 300 yards to your boat, you must turn off the engine, as the noise from the engine can confuse the whales and there are many accidents resulting from props and whale collisions. Also fish finders and depth sounders should be turned off when not in use.
http://www.orcanetwork.org
A convocation of eagles
A convocation of eagles is not a feted occasion requiring black gowns and tasseled caps. Like a murder of crows or a gaggle of geese, a convocation is the unexpected collective noun for a group of eagles.
A convocation of eagles is not a feted occasion requiring black gowns and tasseled caps. Like a murder of crows or a gaggle of geese, a convocation is the unexpected collective noun for a group of eagles.
Eagles have inspired humans throughout history – and the world. The Ancient Romans used them as a symbol of Empire. Here in the United States, the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is our national bird.
Native American tribes, including Hood Canal’s Skokomish, venerate the Bald Eagle. Many tribes associate the eagle with the creator. Since this bird is the strongest flyer, it is believed to carry prayers to the heavens. Feathers and other parts of the bird (such as the talons) are important to many Native American ceremonies, such as smudging, powwows, and talking circles.
At the turn of the 18th century, the Bald Eagle population was estimated to be between 300,000–500,000. In the early 20th century however, the eagle was targeted for sport and because of their perceived predation upon livestock. Between 1918 and 1930 one ornithologist estimated that approximately 70,000 bald eagles had been shot in the state of Alaska. Additionally, nesting sites were disturbed by logging and other forms of development.
The Bald Eagle Protection Act was introduced in 1940 to protect nests, eggs, feathers, and to stop the slaughter of Bald Eagles. By the 1950s, however, there were reported to be only 412 nesting pairs left in the 48 conterminous United States.
Pushed to near extinction
Further, pressure was placed upon Bald Eagles populations (and many birds of prey species) by the pesticide Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT). Since Bald Eagles are predators at the top of the food-chain, this chemical was concentrated in their prey and even the prey of their prey. This bioaccumulation disrupted the Bald Eagle’s metabolism of calcium, severely effecting fertility rates and inhibiting healthy egg production.
Bald Eagles were declared endangered in 1962.
Shari Sommerfeld Images
Revival of a species
However, this is actually a happy story. In 2007, the Bald Eagle was federally delisted from the endangered species list. With the banning of DDT in the United States in 1972 (1989 in Canada), extensive breeding programs, and the enforcement of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act– the population soared. By 2005, in Washington State alone, it was estimated that there were over 840 breeding pairs. In 2009, the Bald Eagle population of the United States was estimated to be nearly 143,000 birds, this number is expected to stabilize at 228,000 birds in the next 5 to 15 years.
Speaking of resurgent populations, January to February is the mating season for Bald Eagles. Usually mating for life, male and females perform stunning aerobatic courtship displays with airborne talon clasping and free falls.
Along the Hood Canal, nests are in trees near water or open fields. Old cedar snags, giant spruces, or the larger coniferous trees are favorites. Both the male and female gather branches and twigs to weave into these monstrous nurseries.
Eagle nests, known as aeries or eyries, are one of the largest nests at nearly 5-6 feet in diameter and 2-4 feet in height.
The female will typically lay 1-3 eggs and both the male and female will take turns incubating the eggs for 34-36 days. After 10-12 weeks (approximately late summer), when the fledglings have left the nest, the mating pair and fledglings may travel to Northern British Columbia and Alaska to take advantage of the early salmon runs.
Shari Sommerfeld Images
To learn more about birding locations on Hood Canal, visit olympicbirdtrail.org for a list of 25 top locations around the peninsula.
A Few Eagle Facts
Bald Eagles are not actually bald, their name comes from an older term for “white- headed.”
At 80.3 inches, the Bald Eagle’s wingspan is slightly greater than a Great Blue Heron. Mature Bald Eagles can weigh between 105.8 to 222.2 oz, with the females usually weighing in on the larger end of the spectrum.
The Bald Eagle is the only eagle native to North America. There are other eagle species in North America, but they are found more globally too, whereas the Bald Eagle is specifically found in North America.
Bald Eagles have a long-life span. The oldest recorded bird in the wild was killed by a car in 2005 in New York, 38 years after being banded in the same state in 1977.
Bald Eagles have a soft, chirpy call, which runs counter to the image of a strong, powerful bird, so its call is often dubbed over in TV and movies with the call of a Red-Tailed Hawk.
Bald Eagles are capable swimmers, if their free-fall salmon dive results in a catch that is just a little too large for lift-off, they can swim ashore with their catch, using their massive wings as “oars.”
Don’t keep an illegal eagle! Possession of an eagle feather without a federally approved permit may be punishable by a $100,000 fine and/ or a year in jail. Permits are only granted to federally recognized Native American Tribal members.