The 2026 Explore the Fjord program has ended! Please check back in the spring of 2027 for program registration.
For this summer program, HCSEG and project partners have various outdoor activities planned around the Hood Canal watershed, where participants will connect with their local fjord through adventures and guidance provided by HCSEG staff. Examples of some activities include kayaking, learning about shellfish, exploring tide pools, and hiking!
Program Overview:
- Fridays
- Program is 6 weeks
- 9am – 3pm
- Ages 12-16
- Each day starts and ends at the Salmon Center. We will provide transportation to and from each site.
- Minimum $10 Donation per session.
- Explore the Fjord activities take place outside. Please dress accordingly.
- Please bring a snack, lunch and water bottle. Lunch is not provided.
- Please ensure participants are prepared accordingly for the activities of the day (i.e. close toed shoes, sunscreen, water, etc.)
- Questions? Email leticia@pnwsalmoncenter.org
Frequently Asked Questions:
- All sessions include five different donation options that can be selected during registration. This is to allow families to pay what they can.
- We offer a “Reduced Donation” level for those with financial need. If this donation is a financial burden, please contact us to discuss a scholarship.
- We also offer a “Full Donation” level, which supports our program scholarship fund. This
allows us to enroll children in Explore the Fjord for free or at a reduced donation amount.
Thank you for paying what you can!
Absolutely! You are welcome to register your child for any number of sessions, whether that’s one session or all of them. Each day is different, and participants do not need to attend all of the sessions to enjoy Explore the Fjord.
We appreciate you letting us know prior to the session date if your child can no longer attend. This allows us to better plan for the day and opens space for children on our waitlist. Unfortunately, we are not able to offer refunds.
2026 Program Schedule:
July 10th: Seabeck Explorations
Come with us to Seabeck to explore the parks and nature preserves in the area including Scenic Beach State Park and Guillemot Cove with our special guests, Great Peninsula Conservancy!
July 17th: Shoreline Finds
Explore a richly forested 237-acre marine park with nearly 2 miles of Puget Sound shoreline! We’ll engage with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to explore near shore environments at Penrose State Park. Learn about the methods and tools marine scientists use, plus enjoy a day on the beach!
July 24th: Union River Estuary Experience
Learn all about the Pacific NW salmon, explore the Union River Estuary, get your hands dirty in the garden and meet the Farm at Water’s Edge furry and feathered friends!
July 31st: Twanoh State Park – Beach Explorations
From a forested trail, to a beach full of aquatic life, there’s so much to explore! We’ll engage with a Pacific Shellfish Institute Research Biologist to identify and learn more about the critters we find beneath the tide!
August 7th: Waterfall & Wetland Wonders
Chase the Dickerson waterfall with us, followed by a craft in nature at the Theler Wetlands!
August 14th: Kayak Adventure
Join us for a trip to Brinnon for a fun kayaking adventure! We’ll follow up our time on the water with a visit to Dosewallips State Park.