Reaching higher heights
Notably at the park, adventurers can access the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail. This 1,200-mile-long footpath — that stretches from Montana to Olympic National Park — offers ten miles of gorgeous hiking at the park. As you set off on the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail, you’ll cross the Deception Pass bridge, an iconic bridge that connects Whidbey Island to Fidalgo Island. Hikers (and road trippers) can take in 360-degree views of the surrounding islands, Puget Sound, and wild Pacific landscape below the historic manmade landmark.
Moreover, part of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail will lead you to Goose Rock, the tallest summit on Whidbey Island. You can also reach this peak by traveling along the scenic Goose Rock Perimeter Trail, which provides stunning views of the small inlet Cornet Bay. This route then connects to the Summit Trail, a steep path that leads you through a series of forested switchbacks and rocky meadows, known as “the Balds,” before you make your final climb to the top. In the distance, you’ll be able to spot Mount Baker, a glaciated volcano that looms over the North Cascades mountain range.
Hiking towards the shores
Not only does Deception Pass offer mountainous hiking with exceptional panoramic views but there are numerous paths that are closer to the sandy shores. The North Beach Trail is an out-and-back hike that passes through old-growth woodlands running parallel to the pebble-covered beach. You can take well-marked side paths that lead to different salty waterfronts and rocky outcroppings for more jaw-dropping seascapes. Of course, while at Deception Pass, you can’t skip the visit to the popular Rosario Beach on Fidalgo Island. The 1.5-mile, family-friendly Rosario Head Trail begins at Bowman Bay, a peaceful cove where hikers can spend time relaxing. The route winds down a lively path where you can catch a glimpse of smaller coves before reaching Rosario Beach. Once here, you can spend time exploring tidepools brimming with marine creatures.
In addition to vistas of the Pacific and of the historic Deception Pass Bridge, there are spectacular coastal wildlife viewing opportunities on every path. If you look toward the ocean, you can commonly observe marine mammals like porpoises, seals, and the occasional whale. Bald eagles and other unique bird species nest along the trees that populate the skylines of Washington’s Pacific coast. When wandering into the Washington wilderness, be sure to save a copy of Deception Pass State Park’s official trail map since many of the hikes intersect. Whether day hiking or backpacking, Deception Pass State Park is a seaside oasis every outdoorsy traveler must add to their bucket list.
