Deception Pass is touted by visitors, writers and promoters as the most-visited state park in Washington. It's milky blue-green waters that rage beneath a bridge of the same color draw in spectators who, maybe by accident, stumble upon the used-but-deserted trail systems that the park boasts. Rock heads covered in Ireland-green grass and small, scraggly wind-abused border the park with views of the bridge. These sentinels are look out points, improvised picnic areas, places to nap and they themselves are places to explore.
The park is, for the most part, overwhelmingly immaculate with few traces of people on the right day. Since winter weather in Western Washington isn't unlike weather during most parts of the year, a little rain and cold wasn't a problem for the day's adventure.
Our group started by walking Rosario Point, which, from the Bowman Bay parking lot (before getting to the Deception Pass Bridge on SR-20) is, looking at the water, to the right. The short trail is well-manicured and direct, but has awesome views and several places to detour and look around, including beaches, climbing rocks and bluffs. Rosario Point itself is a small peninsula with tall cliffs that fall straight down into beds of kelp. We were able to see a few whales and seals there while we ate lunch on the grassy hill that makes up the Point's far side. Making it back to the parking lot in a few minutes, we continued to Lighthouse Point, which, despite its name, doesn't have a real lighthouse.
A green beacon with the number 3 stands on the far side just north of the bridge-viewing area, but it is a far cry from a lighthouse. Regardless, the Point has spectacular views and a large amount of trails for exploring. Some of the heads that jut from the point are covered in grass that are perfect for taking breaks.
Exploring is perilous, as we found out. But it is extremely worth it, especially at Deception Pass.
To Arrive:
Head north on I-5 to exit 230 and take a left onto SR-20 and follow signs for Oak Harbor. Turn right on Rosario Road and then 100 yards after, turn left to Bowman Bay where the parking lot is. To get to the Deception Pass Bridge, continue on SR-20 instead of turning on Rosario Road for a few more miles.
Find pictures here.
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