Elwha River Bridge Walk and Wine Weekend

Midway along the Olympic Peninsula, just west of Port Angeles the newly constructed Elwha bridge and river walk opened last weekend.  On the last glorious day of our Indian summer we peered down into the clear water from the bridge and watched salmon make their final journey upriver.

The bridge is part of the Olympic Discovery Trail that will one day span the Olympic Peninsula from the Pacific Ocean at Lapush to historic Port Townsend.  For pictures of the bridge’s construction and a scenic bonus, click here.

Now this may be a little known fact…but who knew that Port Angeles hosted some really great wineries? 

If you make the trip to see the bridge you may want to stop for some refreshment along the way. I’ve visited Olympic Cellars many times and can guarantee a warm welcome and friendly tasting room.  On my last visit I bought a rhinestone studded t-shirt from their great, girly boutique.  (Perhaps one should not drink and shop at the same time?)   You’ll find the century old barn that houses the winery on your left just east of Port Angeles.   We missed Camaraderie Cellars on this visit but enjoyed basking by the outdoor fire with a big hearty Malbec on our last visit.  I’ve heard great things about Harbinger Winery and its on the top of our list for the upcoming Passport Wine Tour November 14th and 15th and you’ll pass right by it on your way to the bridge.

If you go:  It takes about an hour and a half to get to Port Angeles and the leaf peeping is lovely. This is an easy day trip but if you want to stay over both Port Angeles and Sequim have a wide variety of B&B’s and hotels.   Olympic Cellars is open daily from 11-5; Harbinger Winery is open daily from 11-6 pm and Sunday from 11-5 pm.  You’ll need to make a reservation to visit Camaraderie.

To get to the bridge travel from Port Angeles on highway 101 west.  Take a right on Laird Road go about 1/2 mile and take a left on Elwha River Road.  Turn left onto Crown Z Water Road for parking.