Pack a cooler with wine and take a leisurely spin through Skagit Valley. You will be most rewared...to keep heading north.
Pull off on Highway 11 (Exit 231), which is also known as the stunning and oh-so-scenic Chuckanut Drive. From here, it's just a 10 mile drive to the northern outpost of Taylor Shellfish.
Some journeys...should not be rushed....
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Along the way, there are plenty of spots to pull off the road. Vistas stretch across the horizon, with white-capped Mount Baker nestled between the hills. Follow your wandering urge and detour along Bow Hill Road. This is Rootabega Farm land. Cows aimlessly chew the cud in pastoral organic fields. Stop here for a wheel of fabulous Samish Bay Cheese.
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Back on the road, follow the drive along along the bay, rounding the hairpin turn. On your left, look for Oyster Creek Inn Restaurant perched on the cliff. At the north end of parking lot, spot the entrance to Taylor Shellfish. Views of the bay and distant islands becon you to the water.
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It doesn't get any fresher than this! Shellfish is harvested right in the bay. Duck in the gift shop and pick your pleasure...oysters, clams, mussels, goeduck, fish, shrimp or crab. It's all right here....
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Then, choose your spot. Picnic tables jut out towards the water, or you can grab a seat on one of the rocks overlooking the bay. Slurping briny oysters with a jaw-dropping view, this is the quintessential Northwest experience.
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Wander out along the jetty...and maybe, just maybe...you'll find the Skagit Watershed Trail Letterbox.
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Leave your mark...and then hop back on Chuckanut Drive.
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Another stunning view is just down the road...
For more info:
Taylor Shellfish Farm
2182 Chuckanut Drive
Bow, Washington
www.taylorshellfishfarms.com
Click here for driving directions.
Comments
Oh wow!
DH & I are heading to Seattle in 3 days.
I'll also have to read you rother posts.
Thanks for the pointer.
Judy (judy-mass on FK site)
Sounds and looks like a wonderful daytime journey!
just beautiful, Traca. Must put this on my list for my next R&R in Seattle.
angAK: Thanks! Definitely do take a spin out this way. When you get to our neck of the woods, it's well worth a stop. And for some uber tasty treats at home...Taylor Shelfish ships! ;
em: Exactly! I'm always on the hunt for great day tips....
Judy: Welcome...although I must warn you, after a trip to Seattle, lots of folks never go back home!
For a list of must-try, go-to stops, check out the lists for "Getting the Goods." From chocolates to cheeses, charcuterie and bakery, these are my favorites for "Don't leave Seattle without trying..." Have a wonderful trip!
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