Above:  Deception Pass Bridge is one of the “Scenic Wonders of the Northwest.” Photo by Alex Maier.

Puget Sound, Section 8

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 hundreds 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. 

The Pass Lake Trail in Deception Pass State Park
The Pass Lake Trail in Deception Pass State Park
Photo by Eric Wollborg

Oyster Dome to Coupeville

70 mi (113 km)

Highest Point: 522’

Est. Elevation Gain/ Loss:  +5,017’ / -5,142’

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Wildlife viewing:  seals, whales, otters
  • Anacortes Community Forest Lands
  • Mount Erie
  • Deception Pass State Park
  • Beach hiking on N and West beach
  • Fort Ebey State Park
  • Watching aircraft at Whidbey NAB
  • Lighthouses at Point Partridge
  • Whale watching from the Bluff Trail
  • Fort Casey State Park
  • Exploring WWI and WWII-era bunkers
  • Riding the Keystone Ferry
Menu