North Beach Trail

A strait separating Whidbey Island from Fidalgo Island, Deception Pass and the bridges that span it are a fascinating day trip from Seattle. Located 82 miles from Seattle, a 90 minute drive will get you to the Deception Pass State Park. Once here, there are a myriad of activities to do - explore Pass Island (the tiny island between the two bridges which span the pass), visit Lighthouse Point, or simply hike both the north and southern coastline which surround the strait.

One particular trail that offers fantastic views of the pass and bridges, and is very family friendly to boot, is the North Beach Trail. Located south of Fidalgo Island and at the northwest tip of Whidbey, to get here you’ll cross over the Deception Pass Bridges heading south. Once over the bridges, you’ll drive 0.7 miles and turn right into Deception Pass State Park. You’ll head north once in the park to a parking lot ½ mile further down the road.

The trailhead will be right next to the parking lot. You’ll head west on the trail. A 15 minute hike (0.7 miles) will lead you to the West Point of the park. This area has driftwood on the shores and a boulders feeding into the sound and is a great spot to take in the view. Once finished, follow the coast back east. As you hike back towards Deception Pass you’ll be met with panoramic views straight and bridges. Another 15 minutes (0.7 mile) on the hike along the beach will lead you Mac Cove - a spot just north of the parking lot. At the foot of the Deception Bridge, Mac’s Cover is a great spot to hang out on the beach, grab a snack or just watch people cast their fishing lines into the pass.