5 great hikes near Whidbey Island!
 |
| Mt. Pilchuck |
1. Mt. Pilchuck
Mt. Pilchuck is one of the most highly recommended hikes in Washington State, and is relatively easy to access. From Granite Falls, take the Mountain Loop Highway east. After crossing the “blue bridge” turn right onto Forest Road 42, drive for 7 miles to the trailhead at elevation 3,100 feet. (Bathroom facilities available at trailhead.) While the hike up to Pilchuck is only 2.7 miles, this is not a hike for beginners. There is snow on the trail for most of the year, as late as June and as early as November. The summit of Mt. Pilchuck offers spectacular views of every mountain surrounding the Mt. Loop. Highway. The hike up Pilchuck gains 2,200 feet in 2.7 miles and has a summit height of 5,324 feet; at the summit there is a restored fire lookout, which was previously used by the US Forest Service. For additional information, go to: http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/mount-pilchuck
Mt. Pilchuck is one of the most highly recommended hikes in Washington State, and is relatively easy to access. From Granite Falls, take the Mountain Loop Highway east. After crossing the “blue bridge” turn right onto Forest Road 42, drive for 7 miles to the trailhead at elevation 3,100 feet. (Bathroom facilities available at trailhead.) While the hike up to Pilchuck is only 2.7 miles, this is not a hike for beginners. There is snow on the trail for most of the year, as late as June and as early as November. The summit of Mt. Pilchuck offers spectacular views of every mountain surrounding the Mt. Loop. Highway. The hike up Pilchuck gains 2,200 feet in 2.7 miles and has a summit height of 5,324 feet; at the summit there is a restored fire lookout, which was previously used by the US Forest Service. For additional information, go to: http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/mount-pilchuck
 |
| Sauk Mountain Switchbacks |
2. Sauk
Mountain.
Sauk Mountain is a spectacular, yet short
hike. With an elevation gain of 1,150 feet and a 4-mile round trip, this hike
is short and sweet. You can drive nearly to the summit of the 5,500-foot peak, and
then enjoy hiking switchbacks through wildflowers. When you reach the peak, you
look one way to see the beautiful North Cascades, look the other way, and see
the wide stunning Skagit Valley stretching out before you. For additional
information, go to: http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/sauk-mountain
 | |
| Coal Creek Waterfalls |
3. Coal Creek
Falls.
Coal Creek Falls is a short 1.24-mile day
hike to some beautiful waterfalls. This hike is accessible year round and
during the winter you will see ice sculptures formed by the splashing of the
falls. For additional information, go to: http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/coal-creek-falls
 | ||
| Ebey's Bluff |
4. Ebey’s Bluff
The hike from Ebey’s Bluff begins at Ebey’s
Landing in Coupeville, Washington. You walk down the beach to the north,
underneath the bluff. At the beginning of the hike, beach walking is required,
but when you reach the lagoon, there are trails on the lagoon side that get you
off the stony beach. After the lagoon, a steep trail guides you up the bluff,
follow the trail along the bluff back to Ebey’s Prairie. There a several
fabulous picnic spots along the way. Follow the trail along the prairie to a
wooden staircase, that leads you back down to the beach, and you arrive at your
starting destination. For additional information, go to: http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/ebeys-landing
 |
| Big Four Ice Caves |
Happy Hikin'
Jack
