https://www.olympic.edu/events-calendar/forest-and-stream-ecology-pnw-wetland-lifecycles

Olympic College Continuing Education is offering a guided 2.5-mile ecology hike exploring the diverse habitats of the Hood Canal in Mason County. Beginning in a river-fed valley surrounded by towering cedars and maples, participants will follow a gentle forest trail up to a scenic ridge with views overlooking the canal.

Along the way, hikers will observe how plant communities shift with changes in elevation and moisture—from sword ferns thriving in damp forest floors to sun-loving madronas and rhododendrons higher along the ridge. The class highlights the connection between water, terrain, and native plant life, offering a closer look at the natural systems that shape this region.

The class location is near the south end of Hood Canal. The exact address will be provided to registered participants prior to the hike.