Dyes Inlet

The gang rafting in rough seas

Rating: SKII+

Distance: 12NM

Date: April 22, 2001

Leader: Earl Crippen             Participants: 9

Launch: 09:15                           Return: 2:30

Weather: ~60F, clear, calm.

Description: Launched at Chico and went south thru the various coves and into the Narrows. Crossed over to the east side of the inlet and went north to a lunch stop at Anna Smith Park, almost at the end of the inlet (a closer lunch stop would have been nice). We crossed the inlet in the direction of Chico (a 2 mile crossing in beam seas of 1-2 feet).

Tides/Currents: There are tide rips at the northwest end of the Narrows. Currents in the narrows can run quite fast so plan your trip accordingly.

Charts: (List any charts you may have used planning your trip).

Waterproof Chart #30 – Puget Sound – International Sailing Suppply.

Puget Sound Current Guide – Island Canoe, Inc.

Chart #18474 – Shilshole Bay to Commencement Bay

Chart #18448 – Puget Sound – Southern Part.

Chart #18449 – Puget Sound – Seattle to Bremerton.

Notes:

  1. Lots of harbor seals and waterfowl in the coves south of Chico.
  2. In spite of one participant having to stop twice for seat adjustments, there was still plenty of time for the 12-13 mile trip without rushing.
  3. Lunch stop was a little further than anticipated. Maybe try a different direction utilizing Silverdale County Park which has bathrooms.
  4. To go all the way around the inlet (instead of crossing back to Chico) would have been only one additional mile.

Directions to Launch Site: From I5 @ Hwy 16 it takes about 45 minutes (33.5 miles). Take Hwy 16 to Bremerton and get on Hwy 3 (towards Hood Canal). Take Hwy 3 to the Chico exit. After exiting go 0.5 miles and you’ll see a street right across from "Chico Cabinets". Turn right and drive to the ramp.

Facilities:

  1. Parking is available at Chico for about 10 cars.
  2. No facilities available at Chico.
  3. Anna Smith Park has no bathrooms.
  4. Silverdale County Park does have bathrooms.

Sample Magazine Submittal: Dyes Inlet (SKII+). 12NM RT. Tour the lesser developed reaches of Dyes Inlet in search of seals and waterfowl.

References:

Bailey, Jo, and Carl Nyberg. Gunkholing in South Puget Sound. Seattle: San Juan Enterprises, Inc. 1997. Pp. 137-141.

Scott, James W., and Melly A. Reuling. Washington Public Shore Guide. Seattle: University of Washington Press. 1986. pp.190-193.