VASHON ISLAND — In the small circle created by our flashlight, an entire world dances. Tiny transparent shrimp kick up a hula, their golden eyes glinting. A red sea cucumber retracts its tutu-like tentacles. Dozens of purple shore crabs scrabble sideways in a herky-jerky line dance.
By Kathryn True | November 30, 2006
Hike of the Week
Islands are like small countries, each one a distinct personality with its natural history, demographics, language, ambience, geography, cultural values and environmental niche. Some feel open and friendly, others more introspective, but one characteristic that all seem to share is a slowdown in time. Those who live on islands seem to live at a more relaxed pace and are protective of their privacy.
Vashon Island is no exception.
By Karen Sykes | November 10, 2005
In 1973, an ad for "island property" put such exotic notions into Olde John Croan's head that he boarded a ferry, made his way down Vashon Island, across the thin strip of land that leads to Maury Island and bought his new place that very day.
"The reason I like this island," says the 79-year-old Air Force and Boeing retiree Croan, who has been using the name "Olde" since 1955, "is because it is country. ... I've traveled throughout the world, and for me, the best place I've ever been is right here."
By Heather McKinnon | February 25, 2005
VASHON ISLAND At first glance, the meadow's contents seemed out of place.
Tall evergreens, nurtured by the Northwestern climate, surrounded a field of tepees, which are characteristically a plains dwelling.
Co-manager Jake Mulhair had just finished setting up our tepee when we arrived at AYH Ranch Hostel. Our stay marked the beginning of tepee season, a warm-weather Vashon tradition that continues at the hostel through October.
By Jennifer Lloyd | June 3, 2004
Vashon Island has dot.com mansions and scads of commuters to Seattle, yet it keeps a rural and counterculture feel, too, with artists' studios, funky cabins and small farms tucked into the woods and along beaches.
For an overnight visitor or a day-tripper, the island of 11,000 people is a small-scale, easygoing destination. Here's a sampling of what to see and do:
'Downtown' Vashon
By Kristin Jackson | December 11, 2003
"Some people come down the lane and just stare," said Judith Manerud Lawrence, sliding open the heavy wood door of her old red barn on Vashon Island.
A small woman with a big sense of hospitality, she'll invite unexpected visitors into the three-story barn tucked among towering firs.
It's not just the wood-plank beauty of the half-century-old barn that draws visitors. It's the history.
By Kristin Jackson | December 11, 2003
