Drives Washington The Olympic Peninsula
Highway 101: Hood Canal
US 101, Olympic Highway · Hoodsport → Quilcene
The drive
This stretch of US 101 follows the west shore of Hood Canal north from Hoodsport, with the water just off the road for much of the way and steep forested slopes on the other side. The Olympic Mountains stand behind the little shoreline communities of Lilliwaup, Eldon and Brinnon.
Oysters are the local specialty. Lilliwaup has long been known for them, and the Hama Hama Oyster Saloon and farm store near the Hamma Hama River is a regular stop. Past Brinnon the highway turns inland through farmland and climbs toward Quilcene, where the drive ends.
The drive is 36.8 miles and takes about 50 minutes. It is two lanes with few places to pass, so the pace is set by whoever is in front.
Along the way
- Hoodsport
- Eldon (Hamma Hamma River)
- Brinnon
- Quilcene
Good to know
- Two lanes with few passing places: expect to follow slower traffic and logging or delivery trucks.
- Digging shellfish at the beaches takes a license and an open season, and beaches close for biotoxins, so check the state shellfish page before you dig.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check WSDOT: travel alerts.
Questions about this drive
How long is the Hood Canal drive on Highway 101?
Hoodsport to Quilcene on US 101 is 36.8 miles and takes about 50 minutes. It is mostly gentle curves along the water.
Is Highway 101 along Hood Canal twisty?
It is mostly gentle curves. The road follows the shoreline, then heads inland past Brinnon and climbs toward Quilcene.
Where can I eat oysters on Hood Canal's Highway 101?
Lilliwaup and the Hamma Hama River area, between Hoodsport and Brinnon, are known for oysters, and the Hama Hama Oyster Saloon is a well-known stop.
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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.