Saturday, May 5, 2018

The World is Your Oyster Dome

May 5, 2018

Following a rough April, I needed to find my peace and get outdoors. Oyster Dome was the perfect hike to take with Toby. Only an hour drive from home, we planned to make a day of it afterwards by visiting Taylor Shellfish Farm and a few breweries in Bellingham après-hike (all dog-friendly).

We arrived at the trailhead around 9:30 am on Saturday morning. The lot was full, but no one was parked along the road or upper "lot". Views from the parking lot were gorgeous. There was one 15-minute parking spot available for those who go only for that. Two toilets, a map, and directions on how to purchase a Discover Pass on your phone were also available.
Parking lot/TH view
PNT - Trail

 A majority of the hike was through the forest. Sunshine beamed down through the trees so we were thankful for the shade. I was able to hike in shorts and a t-shirt.

 

It took us about an hour to get to the top. There were about 10 groups relaxing on the two sloped rocky surfaces. You can see Taylor Shellfish Farms from the top. Too bad there's no direct zipline.

View from the top
Glad we got an early-ish start because on our way down there were many groups on their way up.

Splish, splash
We took a few more pictures before leaving the trailhead. Toby wasn't having it with the seflies, but we got him in the background of one.


A 20 minute drive was all it took to get to Taylor Shellfish Farm for the freshest oysters. After a yummy snack, we headed to Bellingham and visited three dog-friendly breweries: Asland, Structures, and Gruff. We also stopped by Farmstrong Brewing in Mt. Vernon on our way home.
Trying to sleep with his head up in the car. It was a looong day for this guy!