The Pacific Northwest is full of stunning natural beauty, with seemingly endless outdoor recreation potential around every corner of The Evergreen State. For most of us, we find our solace in the wild places close to home, and one of those breathtaking destinations is along the Hood Canal on the Olympic Peninsula. Just a short drive from Olympia and the 
concrete forests of Tacoma and Seattle, the wilds of the Olympics make for the ultimate place to celebrate Earth Day. Whether you want to see amazing sights, learn about the Hood Canal’s tidal flats, or find the perfect hiking adventure for you and your family, exploring the fjord of Washington State this Earth Day is the perfect excuse to get outside.
Earth Day started in 1970, and for 48 years, the event has helped to create a culture of respect and love for the planet we all call home. Initially, Earth Day started out as what some would call a tree-hugger’s holiday, but over nearly 50 years, it has evolved into a movement that helps protect and educate people on the environment and our protected lands. It has helped generations plant millions of trees and has become a time when families head out into the wilderness for free, getting involved in the nature surrounding their local communities. While there aren’t specific Earth Day festivities along the Hood Canal, the chance to get outdoors is reward enough. If you feel you’d like to give back, carry an extra garbage bag and help clean the trails you are hiking.
This Earth Day, Washington State Parks are all free to enter, giving you a chance to explore some of the stunning public lands that have inspired generations of outdoor explorers. On fee-free days, visitors to Washington State Parks will not need a Discover Pass for day-use visits by vehicle, letting you hike, park and enjoy the grandeur of the region for just the cost of gas to get there.
Along the Hood Canal, there are a handful of state parks to visit. While none of them have scheduled events for Earth Day, they are great places to visit. I highly recommend heading to Dosewallips State Park, just a short drive north of Hoodsport. Here, you’ll have access to creeks and forests along the incredible Steam Donkey Trail, where wildlife is as commonly seen as people on the trail. If you haven’t hiked here before, this 3.5-mile loop trail is perfect for the whole family. For those looking for something a bit more relaxing that requires less hiking, both Potlatch State Park and Twanoh State Park have great water views and make perfect picnic destinations.
Also near the town of Hoodsport is Olympic National Park and Forest. Here, you’ll find true wilderness waiting for you just a short drive west from Highway 101 on Hood Canal. While the snow in the mountains will limit your recreation possibilities, there are three hiking experiences perfect for your Earth Day adventure. The first is the Big Creek Trail, which weaves around creeks and streams. This trail is a classic for families, as numerous bridge crossings and cool trees help mix up the hiking. In the spring, the waters should be raging, making this trail even more stunning. For something a bit wilder, head to the Staircase region of Olympic National Park. While access is limited to foot traffic due to a washout, the mile-long hike along the road before the Staircase Loop Trail is full of elk, eagles and great views.
If hiking isn’t your thing, don’t skip Hood Canal. On April 21 and April 22, Hama Hama Oysters is holding their annual Oyster-Rama, which promises to be a shucking good time. Full of great food, live bands, educational opportunities and even kid-friendly activities, it is hard to find a better event along Hood Canal over Earth Day weekend. Hama Hama Oyster Company is also close to cool outdoor destinations like Murhut Falls and Rocky Brook Falls. However, with a huge oyster shell pile to climb and mudflats to explore after eating your fill of oysters, you may not need the walk.
Earth Day is more than just a day to head outside. It is when we take a few moments and remember how important the planet is to our lives. Earth Day is about finding that little slice of wilderness to meditate or explore with our friends, family members or just ourselves. On the weekend of April 22, head out into a park of any shape or size along Hood Canal and reconnect with the beautiful scenery that we are lucky enough to have in our backyard. For more hiking and adventure ideas, pick up the must-have 52 Hikes Olympic Peninsula, a beautiful, informative and full-color guidebook perfect for hikers of all ages and abilities.
