The Maiden of Deception Pass - Rosario Beach Washington

   We're lucky in the Northwest to have a strong & proud Native American culture. As we paddle different rivers and locations around the Puget Sound, we are constantly reminded of the people that have lived here for thousands of years. 
   On Rosario Beach, in Deception Pass State Park, there's a great little (kinda giant actually) carved story pole of a maiden named "Ko-kwahl-alwoot" - the Maiden of Deception Pass. 

   According to Samish tribal tradition, long ago this maiden risked her life to save the tribe from starvation. She did this by agreeing to marry a man of the sea - an underwater dude who fancied her and threatened to take the plentiful sea-life away from the area if she didn't. Her father demanded that she return annually so he could check on her well-being. After about 4 years of visits she had become so accustomed to the sea she decided stop visiting and stay underwater. Legend says her hair can be seen flowing with the tide around the Pass (not to be confused with bull kelp:). She lives eternally underwater and ensures the area has an abundance of food for her p.

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   Rosario Beach is great little area of Deception Pass State Park with a nice boat/kayak launch, a trail for a quick hike, the Maiden story pole, and some covered and uncovered picnic areas. Check it out!

   ~Paul & Amber   ETC

Link to the story of the Maiden of Deception Pass.
Link to the Samish Indian Nation.
Link to pictures of the carving of the Maiden.