Photo courtesy of Roger Blain

If you drive up Highway 101 from Hoquiam to Kalaloch on the coast side of the Olympic Peninsula, you’ll eventually go past picturesque Lake Quinault, which is located between the southwestern corner of Olympic National Park and the Quinault Indian Reservation. Quinault also is the name of the river that flows from the lake to the ocean, as well as a small town along the lake’s south shore.

The name “Quinault” comes from Kwinaithl, the name of the largest village of the aforementioned tribe residing in the river’s valley.

The Quinault Indian Nation is hosting its “Return of the Salmon” cultural event Saturday at Lake Quinault Lodge. The event starts at 10 a.m. on October 1st.  Visitors can meet various tribal artisans and vendors.  Go here for the event itinerary. This photo was taken during last year’s event.