Theler is a place for nature -- and a natural place for community

By Barbara Clark

The gem of lower Hood Canal has gained worldwide fame as a nature preserve, but it remains the gathering place that pioneers Sam and Mary Theler intended.

Located at 22871 NE State Route 3 in Belfair, the property was donated to the community by local businessman Sam Theler in 1968 for use as a community hall or athletic facilities, especially for children. But times changed, and when a volunteer group tried to build ball fields next to the Hood Canal marsh they faced an environmental roadblock.

In the following decades, the community turned the apparent dead-end into a never-ending source of enjoyment for not only local residents but also for visitors from around the globe. With a variety of grants and other funding, four miles of flat, barrier-free trails were constructed on the Sam Theler Wetlands and adjoining Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife property.

 The trails have won national awards and have been featured in Sunset magazine, among other publications.

On higher and dryer ground, next to the highway, an old elementary school building – fondly remembered by hundreds of students --- now serves as the Mary E. Theler Community Center.

And the North Mason School District, which was the direct beneficiary and oversees the property, operates an acclaimed science classroom next to the wetlands.

The Theler property covers some 75 acres, and the Washington State’s Department of Fish & Wildlife agreement expands the trail system to 135 acres. Four separate trails are open to the public free of charge during daylight hours, seven days a week.

The quarter-mile South Tidal Marsh trail takes walkers along on an elevated boardwalk across tidelands to a spectacular view of the “toe” of Hood Canal. On a stormy day, adventurers can brave the wind and imagine they’re at the helm of a sailing ship, discovering the bounty of the canal for the first time.

Calmer, sunnier days are perfect for the 1.5 mile hike along the Union River estuary. The trail follows old dikes that separate the river from a historic farm. Singing red-wing blackbirds, ducks and geese are common companions along the way. An otter family has been spotted living beside the path.

A picnic area and restrooms await walkers and joggers near the end of the river trail.

Two short trails take visitors into the woods and next to creeks, where in late summer and fall, spawning salmon can be observed.

Birdwatchers and photographers flock to the wetlands trails, where they’ll see kingfishers, heron and other birds – and possibly a fox or mink – on a good day.

But Theler is about more than wildlife. Dedicated Master Gardeners have maintained native-plant gardens at the trailhead for more than 10 years. Arp Masley, a retired surgeon, carved the gardens out of blackberry brambles and today, at age 80, continues to dedicate at least one morning a week to working in them with help from other volunteers. As part of his dedication to educating the public, he’s overseen the placement of scores of signs labeling the plants.

Any time of year, the gardens are alive with color. Spring brings blooming quince, summer a berm of wild roses and fall the gold of turning leaves.

Nestled among the gardens, and next to the classroom, is an exhibit building open to visitors on weekends from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Displays and photos help unlock the mysteries of the wetlands. Gift items are available to purchase.

Parking for trail walkers is abundant and free near the community center. The trail entrance is behind the center, past an artist-designed metal gate. No dogs, bicycles or motorbikes allowed, and please – don’t litter or feed the animals, and don’t go off the paths.

Volunteers and donations to help maintain the trails and other programs are always welcome. Call (360) 275-4898 or visit www.ThelerCenter.org for information.

Or stop by the Center. While you’re there, you might hear the sounds of local activities: seniors dancing to live music at twice-weekly lunches, Girl Scouts at after-school meetings, a fund-raising bunco party, maybe even a wedding.

Come and visit. Theler is for everyone. It’s “where community and nature walk hand-in-hand.”

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