Nestled near Western Washington’s lively cities, Whidbey Island provides a serene escape with panoramic mountain and water views, expansive farmland, and abundant parks and beaches. Its year-round hiking trails offer ideal exploration opportunities, surrounded by historical richness and culinary delights for day trips or relaxing weekends. For dog lovers, the island offers multiple off-leash trails, making it a haven for canine enthusiasts. Discover the dog-friendly charms of Whidbey Island, including its renowned dog park, as you embark on a journey to explore the best hikes on Whidbey Island with our ultimate guide.
- Navigate directly to the hikes;
- Access the off-leash dog hikes instantly;
- Explore food and beverage options;
- Discover accommodation options.
Whidbey Island is a place of profound cultural significance for the native tribes of the Northwest Coast, such as the Stillaguamish, Snohomish, Suquamish, Skagit, and other Coast Salish communities. This island is more than just a segment of their historical territories; it serves as an essential meeting hub for a range of indigenous communities.
Accessing and Navigating Whidbey Island
You have three main options for reaching Whidbey Island:
- Board the ferry at Mukilteo, which will take you to the island’s southern tip;
- Drive on I-5 to Burlington, then continue over the Swinomish Bridge and Deception Pass Bridge to reach the island’s northern end;
- Use the ferry service from Port Townsend for direct access to the island’s center, a convenient choice if you’re incorporating Whidbey into a broader journey around the Olympic Peninsula.
For Whidbey Island hikers, a car is recommended as public transit has limited coverage. A popular route from Seattle is to drive north to Deception Pass, then south down the island, concluding with a ferry ride back—an ideal choice for day or weekend trips. Keep in mind that ferry lines on Sundays can be lengthy. Opting for the ferry from Whidbey Island to Mukilteo is cost-effective, as fares are charged only for passengers in this direction, particularly advantageous during busy times on Friday afternoons and evenings on the Mukilteo side.
Ideal Seasons for Whidbey Island Hiking Adventures
Discovering the optimal time for Whidbey Island hikes is a delightful revelation—the good news is that these trails are perfect year-round! While the summer months witness increased island activity, especially around Deception Pass on sunny weekends throughout the year, the charm of Whidbey Island hikes extends across all seasons. By venturing onto less-traveled trails, you can escape the bustling crowds and immerse yourself in the island’s serene beauty.
Top-Rated Hiking Trails on Whidbey Island
Ebey’s Landing
Perfect for: Ebey’s Landing stands out among Whidbey Island hikes and is one of Washington’s finest trails. Offering panoramic mountain views, including Mt Baker and Tahoma (Mt Rainier), along with vistas of the Olympic Mountains, this hike provides a comprehensive experience. The trail features a lengthy beach, a lofty bluff, and captivating views of Admiralty Inlet in the Salish Sea. Whether you opt for the loop or an out-and-back journey along the bluff trail to avoid rocky terrain, Ebey’s Landing promises an exceptional hiking adventure. While suitable for children, caution is advised, especially along the bluff trail, which has steep drop-offs.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 5.5-mile loop;
- Elevation Gain: 300 feet.
Directions: Two starting points are available for this hike, one near the beach and the other at the historic farm, both situated close to the town of Coupeville. For beach parking, head south on South Ebey Road in Coupeville (left if arriving from the Mukilteo ferry). Follow this road to the parking lot on the right, located just before a steep hairpin turn leading to the beach. To park at the historic farm, travel south on Sherman Road (left if coming from the Mukilteo ferry) and turn right on Cemetery Road, culminating in the parking area just beyond the Cemetery. Pit toilets are available at both parking locations.
- Parking: Requires a Washington State Discover Pass;
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on-leash.
South Whidbey State Park Old Growth Forest
Ideal for: Enthusiasts of dense forests! This trail secures the second spot on the list of preferred Whidbey Island hikes, primarily due to the enchanting presence of ancient cedar and Douglas Fir trees that grace the path away from the shoreline. While the trail may be somewhat muddy, it is generally well-maintained, with minimal rocks and roots. Opt for a delightful Wilbert trail out-and-back hike, spanning just under two miles and showcasing an array of exceptionally old and majestic trees. Alternatively, extend your adventure by incorporating a bit of climbing and additional distance, forming a loop with the Fern Gully and Ridge Loop Trails.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 2.5-mile loop or just under two miles out and back;
- Elevation Gain: 200 feet on the loop or slightly less out and back.
Directions: Located within South Whidbey State Park on the west side of Whidbey Island, between Freeland and Coupeville. From the ferry landing, head north on Highway 525 and turn left on Bush Road just beyond Freeland. As the road transforms into Smuggler’s Cove Road, the parking area for South Whidbey State Park will be on the left. If coming from Oak Harbor, turn right on Smuggler’s Cove Road just before reaching Greenbank Farm, and the parking area will be on your right upon reaching the park. A pit toilet is available in the parking area, and the trail commences just across Smuggler’s Cove Road.
- Parking: Requires a Washington State Discover Pass;
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are welcome on-leash.
Deception Pass State Park
Ideal for: Nature enthusiasts seeking diversity! Deception Pass State Park boasts an abundance of trails offering a wide range of experiences. From lush forests and mountain vistas to island panoramas, water scenes, and a historic bridge, the park provides a rich tapestry of landscapes. Additionally, you can explore beaches adorned with impressive tidepools. The park spans both Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island, connected by the iconic Deception Pass bridge. Despite the park’s popularity, you can find tranquility on certain trails, with Goose Rock trail offering spectacular views and the trails around Cornet Bay providing a less crowded experience with captivating forest and water vistas. North Beach is particularly enchanting for tidepool exploration during low tide.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 2 miles (North Beach Trail), 3-mile loop (Goose Rock), 3-mile loop (Cornet Bay trail around Hoypus Head);
- Elevation Gain: Minimal (North Beach), 500 feet (Goose Rock), up to 400 feet (Cornet Bay/Hoypus Head).
Directions: Take I-5 and head west on Highway 20 towards Anacortes. Continue on Highway 20 west towards Oak Harbor at the large roundabout (Anacortes traffic goes straight here). After crossing the Deception Pass Bridge, turn right and follow signs to park at North Beach or turn left on Cornet Bay Road to access the loop along Cornet Bay and Hoypus Head.
- Parking: Requires a Washington State Discover Pass;
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are welcome on-leash.
Dugualla State Park
Ideal for: Serene trails, a blend of forest and beach tranquility! While the roads leading into this state park are now closed, worry not—free parking is available before the gate closure (note: no pit toilets or services on-site). Enjoy the peace and seclusion of this area, far less crowded compared to neighboring destinations like Ebey’s Landing, Fort Ebey, Fort Casey, and Deception Pass. Wander down to Skagit Bay’s beach and consider exploring additional forest loops if you desire, but be cautious of muddy conditions.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 2 miles round trip to the beach and back, with up to 5 miles of trails available in the park;
- Elevation Gain: 400 feet
Directions: Find Dugualla State Park near the town of Oak Harbor. If coming from Oak Harbor or the ferry, turn right on Sleeper Road, which leads to the small parking area at the dead end. If arriving from Deception Pass (North), turn left on Sleeper Road.
- Parking: No parking pass required;
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on-leash.
Bluff Trail and Kettles Trail (Fort Ebey State Park)
Perfect for: Scenic beach views and peaceful forest strolls! Navigating this region can be a bit intricate, as Fort Ebey State Park falls under Washington State Parks management, while the adjacent Kettles Trail and Kettles Recreation area are overseen by Island County. However, the entire expanse is part of the Ebey’s Landing National Historical Preserve! With an extensive network of trails covering many miles, it’s advisable to print or download the area map to plan your route. Begin your exploration with the not-to-be-missed Bluff Trail, offering stunning views across Admiralty Inlet to the Olympic Mountains. Stretching just over a mile, the Bluff Trail seamlessly connects with numerous other trails in this expansive system. If camping at Fort Ebey State Park, you have direct access to the Bluff Trail and the entire trail network right from your campsite, making it one of the best spots in Washington to witness a breathtaking sunset.
Trail Details:
- Distance: Bluff Trail is just over a mile long, with many miles of trails in the overall system;
- Elevation Gain: Minimal on the Bluff Trail.
Directions: Fort Ebey State Park is situated near Coupeville and Penn Cove on the west side of Whidbey Island. Take Libbey Road west, just north of Coupeville (left if arriving from the south, right if coming from the north). Turn left on Hill Valley Drive, leading directly into the park. Multiple adjacent parking areas provide access to different points in the trail system (refer to the linked map above).
- Parking: Requires a Washington State Discover Pass (in Fort Ebey State Park);
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are welcome on-leash.
Fort Casey State Park
Ideal for: Families with kids and curious explorers, history enthusiasts, and lighthouse admirers. While there may be more challenging Whidbey Island hikes for avid hikers, this location is a captivating and distinctive destination. The site features a spacious field, a picturesque lighthouse, and a beautiful beach. The nearby Coupeville-Port Townsend Ferry terminal adds to the Pacific Northwest ambiance, making it a must-visit when in Whidbey Island.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 2.5 miles of trails (with additional opportunities for beach exploration and navigating old concrete bunkers);
- Elevation Gain: 200 feet on the trail (including stairs and scrambling around bunkers)
Directions: If coming from the south (Mukilteo ferry), turn left on Highway 20 (marked for the Port Townsend ferry). Continue past the ferry terminal and make a left at the Fort Casey State Park sign (if you reach Seattle Pacific University’s Camp Casey, you’ve gone slightly too far). The road concludes at a spacious parking area with flushing toilets. From the north (Oak Harbor and Deception Pass), turn right on Main Street in Coupeville. Follow this to the right turn into Fort Casey State Park, just past Camp Casey.
Parking: Requires a Washington State Discover Pass.
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on-leash. Additionally, for off-leash dog hikes on Whidbey Island, there are designated areas with ample space for well-mannered dogs to frolic.
Culinary Delights After Your Whidbey Island Hike
Embark on a gastronomic journey after your Whidbey Island hike, where a plethora of culinary gems await! Whidbey Island boasts a diverse array of delectable food options, complemented by four wineries, two distilleries, and two breweries. Discover some standout options:
| Place | Description |
|---|---|
| Whidbey Pies at Greenbank Farm | Indulge in the finest pie at Whidbey Pies in Greenbank Farm. Don’t miss their excellent coffee, and adjacent shops offer an array of wine and cheese selections. |
| Front Street Grill in Coupeville | Delight in world-famous Penn Cove Mussels at Front Street Grill in Coupeville. This restaurant, with a captivating view next to Penn Cove, offers a diverse menu for a delightful dining experience. |
| Whidbey Coffee | Whidbey Coffee, with multiple locations on the island and mainland, is your go-to for excellent coffee. Some spots also provide lunch options, making it an ideal post-hike pitstop. |
| Spoiled Dog Winery | Immerse yourself in the charming, dog-themed atmosphere of Spoiled Dog Winery. Enjoy a delightful selection of wines in an outdoor setting with ample seating. |
| Holmes Harbor Cellars | Experience the serene outdoor setting of Holmes Harbor Cellars, nestled in a picturesque vineyard. Bring a picnic, leash your dog, and relax at one of their many picnic tables. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Whidbey Island is a hidden gem in Washington state that promises rewarding adventures for every nature enthusiast. With year-round appeal and breathtaking views ranging from mountains to water bodies, the island is a treasure trove of serene hiking trails suitable for every skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a traveler keen on historical sites, or a dog owner looking for off-leash adventures with your furry friend, Whidbey Island has a myriad of experiences to offer. Throw in some fantastic culinary delights and unique lodgings to rest after a day of exploration, and Whidbey Island checks all the boxes for an unforgettable getaway.