Puget Sound Gallery

Pacific Northwest Trail – Section 8
Oyster Dome to Coupeville
68 mi (109 km)
Deception Pass
Deception Pass Bridge is one of the "Scenic Wonders of the Northwest." Photo by Alex Maier.
Deception Pass Bridge is one of the "Scenic Wonders of the Northwest." Photo by Alex Maier.

The Puget Sound is the most easily accessible region of the Pacific Northwest Trail. A maritime climate offers year-round hiking and cycling, world-class wildlife viewing, and thousands of miles of shoreline to explore.

Some of most popular trails on the PNT pass through Washington State Parks in the Puget Sound. With easy trails along sandy beaches and steep climbs to views from high rocky bluffs, the Puget Sound offers opportunities for a variety of trips for visitors of all ages and interests.

In the Sound, garden like trails add to the diversity of the PNT experience. Hedge rows of coastal salal line bluff side footpaths overlooking spouting whales, colorful sailboats, and the island chains of the Salish Sea. Elegant Pacific Madrone and twisted shore pine cling to seaside cliffs while harbor seals swim among the straights hundreds of feet below Deception Pass Bridge, one of the scenic wonders of the Northwest.

In this populous area, long-distance travelers can go light, carrying a minimal amount of provisions between seaside communities, all less than a day’s walk apart. Along the way, roadside stands and restaurants serve up refreshments, local berries, and fresh seafood.

Menu