In the summer months it’s all about outdoor adventure in Unforgettable Grays Harbor County. From the ocean to the rainforest and everywhere in between, there are outdoor activities the whole family will enjoy. From hiking in the Quinault Rain Forest and sport fishing in Westport, to paddleboarding on Aberdeen Lake and body surfing in the Pacific Ocean at Seabrook. And since June is National Great Outdoors Month, let’s get outside!
Sport Fishing
Sport fishing out of Westport is a summer favorite. There you’ll find boat charters to take you to some of the best salmon and bottom fishing in the world. The fish are also biting on the rivers and lakes throughout the county. River guides and drift boats offer shorter boat trips during the summer months, putting you on the water to target multiple species of fish, including steelhead. Whichever you choose, rest assured that all equipment is provided, and the captain and/or guide will even filet your fish. All you need to bring is your fishing license, some snacks and drinks.
Quinault Rain Forest
Sports on or near the water abound, from bike riding or horseback riding on the beach in Ocean Shores, to canoeing and kayaking on beautiful Lake Quinault in the Quinault Rain Forest. It’s just an hour’s drive from the northern beaches of Grays Harbor County.
Go for a hike on one of the many trails in the Quinault Rain Forest, one of four temperate rainforests in the contiguous United States (all of which are on the Olympic Peninsula). And be sure to see the world’s largest spruce tree at the Rain Forest Village. Looking for something a little less strenuous? Drive along either the North Shore Road or the South Shore Road and enjoy the beauty and solitude. Be sure to keep an eye out for Roosevelt elk and other wildlife and stunning waterfalls, such as Merriman Falls or Bunch Creek Falls.
Disc Golf
Want to try something new? At the Sam Benn Park Disc Golf Course in Aberdeen, you can play a game that’s similar to golf. It uses discs and baskets instead of clubs and golf balls. The course at Sam Benn Park is perfect for beginners, experts and families.
Explore Aberdeen and Hoquiam
While you are in Aberdeen, take a walking tour and follow in the footsteps of Kurt Cobain and Krist Novoselic. Come as you are and visit the Young Street Bridge and Riverfront Park, also known as Kurt Cobain Landing. Be sure to take a look under the Young Street Bridge at the Muddy Banks of the Wishkah River. It’s the inspiration for the Nirvana album of the same name. And don’t miss the Music Project in Aberdeen to learn more about the history, music and the people who brought grunge music to the world.
If nature is more to your liking, check out Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge in Hoquiam. The 1,800-foot boardwalk makes walking and wildlife viewing fun and easy.
Head Outside
If you prefer a more remote experience, unplug with a camping trip to Coho Campground at Wynoochee Lake. There you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life; really, there’s no cell service! At Wynoochee Lake you’ll find solitude and adventure. Enjoy miles of trails for running, biking and hiking. Bring your kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes, or your jet skis and power boat. An easily accessible boat launch provides access to miles of fun on the water. Be sure not to miss stunning Wynoochee Falls. It takes a while to get there on a bumpy forest road, and then a short hike, but it’s well worth the effort.
You’ll find outdoor adventure and stunning natural beauty no matter the season in Unforgettable Grays Harbor County. And you won’t want to miss the summer months which are even more Unforgettable.
Written by Guest Blogger Grays Harbor County Tourism
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