Hood Canal Getaway

I felt like I had to seize the moment of a long weekend without the kids. I snuck over to the south Hood Canal area. I’d never hiked in the Staircase area of Olympic National Park or seen Lake Cushman, so that was a real treat on Friday. I started by hiking the Staircase Rapids trail that follows the North Fork of the Skokomish River. It was a beautiful part of the river and the rain forest was spectacular. Leaves and ferns and moss were magically ensconced in frost and turned into art. The suspension bridge over the river is really impressive. I also hiked a bit on the Four Streams Trail to add a little distance - definitely interesting and goes through some different areas of forest progression. I’d like to come back and explore more!

I rented a cute little beach cabin on Hood Canal not too far from Alderbrook Resort and Twanoh State Park. High tide came right up under the deck which was wild. The sunsets (at 4:30!) were breathtaking both nights. The Olympic Mountains loomed in the distance above the canal and were really impressive. It was a perfect spot to recharge for the busy-ness of December and the holidays. I had fires both nights in the wood stove and felt perfectly cozy. I’d highly recommend this airbnb if you are ever looking for a spot between Belfair and Union.