Short hikes make great getaways during hectic holidays

By Chester Allen | The Olympian • Published December 02, 2008

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We all deserve a break from the shopping mall during the holidays, but getting away from all the hoopla for an entire day is tough.

No worries!

Here are three short hikes that easily fit into the busiest holiday schedule:

Frye Cove Park

• What: Outing to Frye Cove Park on Eld Inlet.

• Where: Frye Cove is at 61st Ave Northwest, just off Young Road Northwest.

• To do: This 67-acre park with 1,400 feet of Puget Sound beach is worth the drive and your holiday time. Frye Cove offers shellfish digging in season — you can see clam siphon holes all over the beach at low tide. The clam and oyster season begins on New Year's Day, so if the Rose Bowl game is a little dull ...

It's best to visit during low tide, as the entire beach can be under water during a high tide. Don't dig shellfish out of season or when warning signs are posted. For more information on shellfish seasons and safety, check wdfw.wa.gov or doh.wa.gov and click on "Beach Closures."

The clam and oyster season at Frye Cove runs from Jan. 1 through May 15. The beach has good numbers of Manila and littleneck clams, oysters and other clams.

• Restroom: There is a restroom between the parking lot and the beach.

• Safety: Keep a close eye on kids, as the woods are dense and the beach has sharp shells and barnacles.

• Directions: Take U.S. Highway 101 toward Shelton. Take the Steamboat Island Exit and take Steamboat Island Road about 6 miles to Young Road N.W. Turn right and follow Young Road for about two miles. Turn left onto 61st Ave N.W. and follow the road into the park.

The park is open from 9 a.m. to dusk, No camping, alcohol or firearms allowed.

• More information: Call Thurston County Parks and Recreation at 360-786-5595 or check www.co.thurston.wa.us/parks.