HIKES
Join one of our Activity Coordinators for various hikes in the Upper West PNW!
Fee: $5 - $10 per hike unless stated otherwise, includes bus transport (additional fees depending on distance and parking fees)
Time: Bus leaves Activity Center promptly at 9 am (unless otherwise stated)
Skill level: Varies by hike
Ages: 16 & Up, under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Food: Please bring a lunch, snacks, and water
Pets: Unfortunately, though we love dogs, they aren't allowed on the bus.
Additional notes:
Hikes progress from easy in late spring and early summer to more difficult by the end of summer.
Fall hikes will be easy to moderate due to weather restraints.
Please be aware that some hikes are strenuous and hiking poles are recommended.
Later in the summer and fall hikes may be rescheduled due to air conditions, changes in road conditions, or inclement weather.
NOTE: This activity is not covered by fitness insurance
Beach Explorations
Fee: FREE
Time: Staggered around low tides during late Spring and Summer; please see dates at the bottom of the page by clicking on the schedule.
Ages: All ages are welcome, but low tide is rocky and can be slippery
Additional notes:
Please know the ground will be wet, rocky, and slippery, so please wear appropriate footwear.
Clamming 101
Fee: FREE
Time: Staggered around low tides during Spring
Ages: All ages are welcome, but low tide is rocky and can be slippery
Additional notes:
Please know that the ground will be wet, rocky, and slippery, so wear appropriate footwear. Anyone harvesting clams will need a shellfish license, a container for clams, and digging equipment.
Stargazing 101: What You Can See in the Sky
Presented by SpaceTime with Robert
Curious about what’s twinkling above? Join us for an evening under the stars and learn how to spot constellations, planets, and other celestial wonders with the naked eye. Whether you're new to stargazing or just want to brush up on your sky-watching skills, this session will give you the tools to look up with confidence.
Friday, May 16, 2025
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
FREE – Registration Required
Register online or call us at 360-656-6416 to reserve your spot. Bring your curiosity—we’ll bring the stars a little closer.
How to Use a Telescope -- CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER -feel free to attend the stargazing with any of your telescope questions.
Presented by SpaceTime with Robert
Thinking about getting a telescope or have one collecting dust? This hands-on session will walk you through the basics—how to set up your telescope, find objects in the night sky, and make the most of your viewing experience. Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a refresher before a night of stargazing.
Friday, May 16, 2025
5 p.m.
FREE – Registration Required
Register online or call 360-656-6416 to sign up. Start your evening by learning how to unlock the skies—one lens at a time.
The Pot that Won the West: Dutch Oven Cooking July 12th
Fee: $15Join Jim Carr and Linda Cline at the Birch Bay Rec Center as they cook a delicious meal from main course to dessert using Dutch Ovens. Learn a bit about the history of Dutch Oven cooking, how to take care of your cast iron and enjoy the best meal you've ever tasted from a campfire. Please bring a drink of your choice and your appetite.
Low Tide Excursion: Marine Wonders at Point Whitehorn Coming Soon
Fee:
Meet at the Point Whitehorn parking lot. Please be reminded that dogs are not allowed, and no bathrooms are available at the beach (only a portable bathroom in the parking lot). Please bring water shoes and sun protection. Attendees can expect to get wet while wading in the water to reach certain locations. Participants should be prepared for 2-3 hours at the beach and have water and snacks as needed.
Crabbing 101 Coming Soon
Fee: FREE
Time: Scheduled later in Summer right before crabbing opens (crabbing in our area (7N) usually opens up about a month after Bellingham area (7S))
Ages: All ages are welcome to learn about harvesting crabs in our area.
Additional notes:
This is an informational class in which a specialist will discuss rules and regulations, types of equipment and harvesting methods, and cooking and cleaning crab.