Our Dosewallips Estuary Tour is one of our most popular guided kayaking adventures. On this 3 hour round-trip paddle we experience three distinct environments. We start in the marine waters of the Hood Canal then travel to the Dosewallips Estuary and upriver into slow moving sloughs. Estuaries (where fresh water meets salt) are important areas for wildlife, rich in food and serve as nurseries and spawning grounds for a variety of species. Once we reach the estuary, we’ll watch the amazing array of year round and seasonal wildlife and explore the lower river channels. Your Guide, and Biologist For The Day, will teach you about the wildlife we see and talk about the natural history of the Hood Canal. The Dosewallips Estuary is one of Washington’s largest intact estuaries and is home to up to 100 harbor seals, bald eagles, blue herons, salmon, river otters and much more. If your lucky we’ll spot Brinnon’s herd of Roosevelt Elk grazing on the banks. Gear must be transported to a different launch location for this tour. If you have a disability that would hinder your lifting and carrying abilities, please let us know. Also, call us if your booking for a child so that we may bring the appropriate sized life vests.
$25 per crab pot if crabbing during tour.
You must provide your own WDFW shellfish license and bait to take your crabs home.
Roosevelt Elk at Dosewallips Estuary
Dress for the weather! If it’s hot bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. If it’s rainy or cool wear a rain jacket, hat, and a pair of water resistant pants. Shoes or sandals that can get wet are recommended. Remember, you’ll be wearing a life vest which adds warmth and bulk so heavy jackets are not recommended. Most of our kayaks have dry hatches so you can always bring a little more than you might need if the weather is unpredictable. We also recommend bringing a bottle of water on all tours especially on hot days. Bring your camera and cell phone at your own risk. Most folks do, and there are rarely problems. We also have some dry bags to lend out but you may need to request one in advance. We may use tandem and/or single kayaks for this tour. If you have a preference, please let us know 3 days prior to your tour date.
Weather cancellations are always a possibility. We strive to give folks 48 hours notice, however weather forecasts are not always accurate and tours can be cancelled at any time. See our Frequently Asked Questions page for our Cancellation & Refund Policy.