Sequim, WA (pronounced Squim) sits on the northeast corner of the Olympic Peninsula. During the twentieth century, it was a sleepy little town with few tourists and as many residents. Those days are gone.
The Olympic Mountains flirt with the city’s southern border. The Strait of Juan de Fuca creates the northern boundary. The area’s ideal weather belies the foggy reputation of Western Washington.
A building boom and expansion has taken hold of the area in recent years and lends itself well to the visitor who 
wants to explore the nooks and crannies of the peninsula. The Hurricane Coffee Company shares the downtown with the 
renovated grain mill. A local Chinese restaurant screams culinary excellence rivaling some of Seattle’s best.
To peak visitor’s interest a new mall crouches at the west end of town. Shops ebb and flow along the main street. Gift shops to galleries, antiques to cafes, this little package has many surprises.
North of town is another offering; a different experience for those who wish to walk a while on the wild side.
The Olympic Game Farm is an experience the visitor won’t soon forget. When it opened in 1972, Lloyd and Catherine Beebe allowed guests to 
view and appreciate their many animal actor friends who’d retired from film work. The Game Farm grew to include many animals not from the entertainment industry.
Lloyd and Catherine’s grandson, Robert Beebe, took over the Park’s operations three years ago. Once you’re in the Game Park, you can take a leisurely stroll around the petting zoo, small aquarium, and historic buildings, along with 
the gift shop. You can also, stay in your car and take a drive through the many exhibits waiting to show you the local wonders.
Ricky the Rhino is a favorite. He’s a friendly fellow that enjoys meeting new people, though those in cars aren’t allowed to get out, even for taking photos. On the whole 
driver and riders won’t have to strain their eyes to see the wildlife. The animals will help themselves to a chose-up-and-personal look-see inside the vehicle if windows are down.
Fallow deer, American bison, elk, bears and other large animals provide 
more than enough stimulation for an explorer with camera. Peacocks, rabbits, llamas and emus keep things hopping, too.
Be sure to pick up a copy of the Game Park’s history—“Wilderness Trails and a Dream: The Story Behind the Olympic Game Farm” by Lloyd Beebe. You won’t regret it. It’s a great read.
A day at the park and a night in Sequim will provide both fun and rest. When you leave, whether you go west to Port Angeles or south and east to Port Townsend, you’ll find plenty to keep you interested in the Peninsula.
If you’re thinking of traveling to the area, check out these links to find the latest and greatest information.
Trailing Inspirations 