Nestled in the southwest corner of the Olympic Peninsula on the Pacific Coast, you’ll find Grays Harbor County. This is an unforgettable year-round destination for outdoor family fun and recreation. It’s one of the only places in the world where you can experience the power and beauty of the ocean and, less than an hour later, savor the magnificence of the rainforest.
With miles and miles of Pacific Ocean beaches, the Quinault Rainforest is one of only three temperate coniferous rainforests in the Western Hemisphere. In addition, fabulous lakes and rivers plus the beauty of Grays Harbor County makes this area legendary.
In Grays Harbor you’ll find activities to enjoy throughout the year. There’s always something to do outside, no matter what the weather. As temperatures cool and crowds thin, experiencing outdoor family fun is better than ever. Here are a couple of amazing activities you can enjoy during the quieter times of the year.
Hiking in the Quinault Rainforest
Don’t let the word “rain” in “rainforest” keep you inside. Raining or not, the Quinault Rainforest offers remarkable hiking for any ability. If time permits, explore the Lake Quinault Loop, which offers 10 stunning stops including Lake Quinault Lodge, Merriman Falls and the world’s Largest Spruce Tree. The loop also makes a fantastic mountain bike ride. About half of the 34-mile loop is paved. The rest is gravel. Be aware that bear and elk are commonly seen along this loop, especially in the early morning and late evening hours. Keep your eyes open for them and get your camera ready.
If you only have time for one hike, don’t miss the Quinault Rainforest Nature Trail. The Olympic National Forest offers maps and descriptions of other hikes on their website.
Clam Digging
Razor clams are one of the most sought-after shellfish species in Grays Harbor County. Digging for razor clams is a pastime the whole family will enjoy. It’s not just another outdoor activity, it’s also a fun, challenging sport. And razor clams are so tasty, perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Once you think you may have located a clam, you have to dig fast, because razor clams can dig even faster! Prepare to get a little wet, and a little dirty. That’s all part of the fun.
Once you dig down, reach for and nab that first elusive razor clam, you’ll never want to stop. That’s probably why there’s a limit to how many you can dig each day. This way there are plenty of clams for everybody to enjoy
Razor Clam seasons and beaches vary each year. They’re regulated by Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. All diggers age 15 or older must have an applicable fishing license to harvest razor clams on any beach. Licenses can be purchased from WDFW’s licensing website and from hundreds of license vendors around the state.
River Fishing
Grays Harbor County offers a variety of rivers to fish. There are eight rivers in all. The Queets, Clearwater, Upper Quinault, Humptulips, Chehalis, Wishkah, Wynoochee and Satsop rivers offer a bounty of hatchery, wild salmon and Steelhead.
The Humptulips River offers a fishing experience like no other. Considered a favorite by many, the river is flowing with fish almost year-round. In the fall months, fishing for Cutthroat and sea-run trout is great. The months of December to January and March to April offer fantastic Steelhead fishing. It’s not uncommon to catch Steelhead weighing up to 20 pounds. But the best months are from September to November. That’s when gargantuan Chinook return to the river, many weighing over 40 pounds.
There is something amazing about fishing in the Lower Quinault River. It’s home to spectacular Chinook and Silver Salmon in the fall with unparalleled Steehead fishing in the winter months, often in the rainforest. Because these rivers and land are owned by the Quinault Nation, check for updated regulations. However, permits to fish in the lake can be obtained in local stores. There are also numerous guide services available to take you and your family out on the private river where salmon run nearly every month of the year.
The Wynoochee River is one of the most popular winter/summer Steelhead rivers in western Washington. It also has a healthy run of Coho and Chum Salmon. The Wynoochee has four public boat launches for fishing access.
The Chehalis River is the largest watershed in Washington that originates entirely within the state. There you’ll find Chinook, Coho and Chum Salmon plus Steelhead. There are public access points in Oakville, Porter, Elma, Montesano and Aberdeen.
No matter the season, you’ll enjoy unforgettable outdoor family fun in this paradise for nature lovers—Grays Harbor County.
By Guest Blogger, Steve Lawson, for Grays Harbor County Tourism
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