NW travel reminder

[Penney H. & Mike E.]

Though mentioned before, want to remind folks that beginning May 1st traveling to the Olympic Mountains, Olympic National Park, Hoh Rainforest, Port Townsend Victorian Seaport, all popular places to go, will be challenging due to the 6 week closure of the Hood Canal Bridge, the main access to the Olympic Peninsula from points east (as in Seattle). The only way on and off the Peninsula during that time will be highway #101, either on the east side of the Peninsula, up the Hood Canal from Olympic, or the west side, along the Pacific Ocean. Both are beautiful scenic drives, but there will likely be more traffic than usual so plan accordingly. Campgrounds will not likely to be full, there are several major festivals during this time, so come visit - or not.....those of us living here plan on enjoying this slow time in our own backyard of Olympics Mts. and Pacific beaches since we will be sort of 'cut off' from the rest of the world a bit!

for more info:Hood Canal Bridge Closure

[Bobbie Mayer]

I thought the Keystone-Port Townsend Ferry was back in business for cars- going to Whidbey and then on the Keystone ferry also gets you to the peninsula.

[Dave Fish]

Keystone / Port Townsend works if you are going to the North end of the pennisula (Sequim, PT Angeles), especially if you are coming from the North. You cannot get to Poulsbo or other destinations on the key penninsula from PT Townsend. You can get wherever you want but you have to choose a route that does not require crossing Hood Canal and it is a long drive around.

Keep in mind that:
The Keystone ferry does not run at very low tides.

It is a very small boat so you may have to wait.

It runs about avery 1.5 hours.

You should have reservations (call 411)

Dave

[Penney H. & Mike E.]

There is also a big ferry at night between Port Townsend and Edmonds, it is only Monday - Thursday and primarily aimed at delivery trucks getting on and off the Peninsula. You should have reservations for that also. A good option if you are a night owl!

Good reminder about the Keystone Ferry. I forgot to mention it, partly because it is so small, as mentioned, and it is very unreliable, frequently canceled due to weather. You can make reservations on line at:
ferry reservations



This information and more can be found at the bridge closure link I originally posted.