Stretching from forested hills to saltwater shorelines, Jefferson County offers a mix of recreation and relaxation that encourages visitors to move, explore, and unwind. Located in the northeast sector of the Olympic Peninsula, it is easily accessible from the greater Seattle metro area. Whether you’re here for the day or staying a while, this part of the Olympic Peninsula is ideal for travelers looking to combine wellness and nature—through golf, hiking, paddling, and fresh local food.
In east Jefferson County, nature isn’t just something to visit—it’s part of everyday life, shaping how people live and explore. With so many trails, parks, and public lands, it’s easy to build a multi-day itinerary that links water, forest, and mountain experiences across the county.
Golf with a View
Golfers visiting the Olympic Peninsula have access to several scenic and welcoming public courses across east Jefferson County.
Port Ludlow Golf Course is an 18-hole course designed by Robert Muir Graves and tucked among forest, hills, and Hood Canal views. This walkable course is a favorite for its peaceful setting and smart layout. It’s been honored as a top 3 “Best Golf Course” by the Seattle Times’ Best of the PNW awards and is a multi-year “Ladies’ Choice” winner in Cascade Golfer magazine.
Just west of Port Townsend, Discovery Bay Golf Club offers 18 historic holes on the shore of Discovery Bay, dating back to 1925. It’s a hidden gem with tree-lined fairways, open views, and a laid-back atmosphere.
With distinct layouts and scenic settings, these courses can be part of a memorable multi-day golf getaway—perfect for exploring more of the Olympic Peninsula while enjoying a variety of play styles.
Trails for Every Season and Skill Level
The trail system through the region gives visitors a wide variety of options, from flat coastal paths to forest loops. For gentler, family-friendly jaunts, there are plenty of options that invite you to slow down and soak in the beauty of the surroundings—perfect for a bit of forest bathing or a quiet walk among the trees.
In Chimacum, the Valley View Forest, managed by the Jefferson Land Trust, offers an easy-access trail system great for families or casual hikers. This forest is expected to become a gateway to the 853-acre Chimacum Ridge Forest in the near future.
In Port Ludlow, more than 30 miles of trails connect neighborhoods, forests, and shoreline. Many are well-suited for year-round walking, running, or biking. One highlight is the half-mile interpretive trail to Ludlow Falls. This easy trail loops through lush, mossy forest that leads you to a year-round cascading waterfall.
Elsewhere in the county, the Larry Scott Trail offers a paved and gravel route from Port Townsend into the countryside, popular with cyclists and walkers alike. It serves as the eastern gateway to the Olympic Discovery Trail, a multi-use path stretching across the northern Olympic Peninsula, open year-round.
Located near Quilcene, Mount Townsend is one of the Olympic Peninsula’s most beloved hikes and for good reason. This roughly 8-mile round-trip trail climbs about 3,000 feet and rewards hikers with sweeping 360-degree views from the top. Expect blooming rhododendrons in late spring, wildflowers in summer, berries in late summer, and vibrant fall colors in autumn.
Kayaking and Water Tours
The county’s extensive coastline makes it easy to get on the water. Kayaking offers a peaceful and engaging way to explore coves, wildlife, and marine ecosystems. Expect to see bald eagles, sea otters, and blue herons as you paddle through local waterways.
Rentals and access points are available at Port Ludlow Marina, Hood Canal Adventures, in Brinnon, and for a deeper dive into the region’s marine life and history, guided kayak tours are available through Olympic Tours, departing from Fort Flagler Historical State Park. These tours are beginner-friendly and focus on both paddling and local ecology, with guides who share knowledge about native species, tidepools, and coastal conservation.
Summer Harvest and Local Flavor
While Jefferson County’s agricultural roots are on display throughout the year, August is peak season for fresh food. Local farm stands, and the Chimacum Farmers Market, are full of summer produce—spring greens, berries, eggs, tomatoes, and more.
Local restaurants like Spirits Bar & Grill in the Old Alcohol Plantand The Fireside at The Resort at Port Ludlow incorporate ingredients from nearby farms and producers into their menus. For an immersive experience, visitors can head to Finnriver Farm & Cidery in Chimacum, where the cider garden offers tastings and live music. Guided tours, orchard walks, and family–friendly events round out the experience, making it a must-visit stop for anyone exploring the county’s food culture.
Planning Your Visit
Jefferson County is accessible by car, boat, or a chartered seaplane. Once here, it’s easy to explore multiple communities in a weekend, linking outdoor activities with local dining and scenic stops.
With its open spaces, quiet pace, and abundance of natural beauty, Jefferson County offers a wellness-focused approach to golf, hike, paddle and taste with travel that feels both grounded and memorable. There’s truly something for everyone—no matter the season.
Written by guest blogger Jessie Short, for Jefferson County Tourism Coordinating Council
Cover photo courtesy of John Gussman
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