Union, Washington, sits quietly on the Hood Canal’s edge—a gateway to Pacific Northwest adventure without the crowd. When planning your visit, Alderbrook Resort & Spa should top the list. More than just a place to sleep, its access point to outdoor activities pairs rugged natural beauty with comfortable, practical amenities. From waterborne pursuits to forested trails, Alderbrook serves as a launching pad to explore a landscape that’s both fiercely alive and welcoming.

The resort’s waterfront invites kayakers and paddleboarders to engage directly with the Hood Canal’s whispering currents. Early morning launches reward you with glassy waters daring you to glide alongside busy seagulls and the occasional bald eagle overhead. On land, Alderbrook’s proximity to the Olympic National Forest means trails that cut through dense evergreens and climb toward vista points framing the Olympic Mountains.

A standout hike begins just a few minutes from the resort: the Sherman Valley trail. It offers a moderate challenge—about 4.5 miles round trip with roughly 900 feet of elevation gain. The path mixes root-strewn forest floor and rocky climbs, offering variety without overwhelming. As you rise, the air shifts cooler, the forest thickens with cedar, fir, and spruce acting as silent sentinels. Views open onto sweeping valleys, pulling your gaze toward the mountains and the canal’s blue stretch. The trail’s rhythm slows and surges like the surrounding environment itself, a push-and-pull that feels like an honest test rather than a race.

Preparation is key: sturdy footwear will help on the uneven ground, and carrying sufficient water is crucial as the forest’s shade won’t fully mask physical exertion. Start hikes early in the day to avoid afternoon heat spikes in summer or quick weather shifts in shoulder seasons. Alderbrook’s spa offers a perfect counterbalance after a day outdoors: deep-soaking tubs and massages that soak away exertion to ready you for tomorrow’s adventure.

Winter here commands respect, with trails slick under rain and occasional snow. Summer crowds thin in fall and spring, but each season rewards with distinct wildlife sightings—from foraging elk to migratory birds. Alderbrook’s setup—combining boat rentals, guided tours, and dining that features local catches—ensures practical support meets your adventurous spirit.

Whether you’re seeking a day trip or several days immersed in the wild Pacific Northwest charm, Alderbrook Resort & Spa is a practical hub that lets nature be fiercely itself while offering the comfort and tools necessary to engage with it fully.