A deep valley and a high alpine vista along the Olympic Mountain's South Fork Tunnel Creek trail

The South Fork Tunnel Creek trail climbs westward through the Buckhorn Wilderness beginning on the eastern flank of the Olympic Mountains. The termination presents one of the best views of 7,743 ft. Mt. Constance in the Olympics. There is a little of everything on this hike; a moss filled valley, cascading creeks, old growth forest, and unobstructed high alpine views of the Olympic Mountains to the east and Puget Sound to the west.

 

Blake Island Marine State Park, a treasure in our backyard

Just south of Bainbridge Island, Blake Island Marine State Park is accessible only by private boat, with the closest portage near Southworth and about a two-mile paddle. Blake Island was historically used as a camping location by the Suquamish tribe, and is considered a possible birthplace of Chief Sealth, for whom Seattle is named. The island was designated a state park in 1959. 

Blakely Rock; eagles, seals, sea life and kayaking

At high tide Blakely Rock is a boat-treacherous rock extending about 15 feet above water line. At low tide, it transforms to a small island with a spectacular view of the Seattle skyline with a gorgeous white shell beach. Low tides open up the island to exploring. The island is considered one of the best places in Puget Sound to see rocky-shore sea life and always has an abundant population of harbor seals sunning and swimming. The island's reef is home to the giant pacific octopus, which can weigh up to 150 pounds with arms as long as the length of a car.