When:
January 17, 2026, 9 AM-12 PM
Trip leader:
Lin Stern and Melinda Wood
Registration:
Email Lin for registration at lindseysarahstern@gmail.com
Description:
We will start the morning at Potlatch State Park, meeting at the entrance and parking area along U.S. 101 at 9:00 AM. A Discover Pass is required to park at Potlatch State Park. From the parking area we will scan Hood Canal for waterfowl. This location often has good numbers of multiple grebe species, as well as scoters, loons, and a variety of ducks.
Next, we will drive to Hunter Farms where there is potential to observe multiple species of raptors and numerous passerine species, including flocks of blackbirds. The flooded farms fields often attract a variety of waterfowl and gulls as well. We can walk the publicly accessible areas of the farm.
Pace – Leisurely (meandering, many breaks to stop and observe); Terrain – Soft ground, sand gravel, dirt roads; Walking Distance = No more than a mile at each stop.
Restrooms
There are public restrooms at Potlatch State Park, and portable toilets at Hunter Farms.
What to bring: Binoculars, spotting scope. Water. Waterproof and insulated clothing. Day-time temperatures can range from 30s-50s this time of year, rain is likely. Waterproof shoes or boots recommended; Hunter Farms can be muddy.
Directions:
The meeting location is at Potlatch State Park, just south of Hoodsport.
Parking:
Potlatch State Park – There is plenty of parking available at this state park. This location requires a Discover Pass. (47.361490, -123.156378).
Hunter Farms – There is a gravel lot at the farm store, and some overflow parking nearby. (47.318892, -123.134003).
Photo: Red-breasted Merganser by Rachel Holland
