North Beach Trail and Goose Rock Perimeter Trail

Starting your adventure near Island County, Washington, the North Beach Trail and Goose Rock Perimeter Trail offer a delightful loop of approximately 7 km (4.3 miles) with an elevation gain of around 300 meters (984 feet). This medium-difficulty trail is perfect for those looking to experience the natural beauty and historical significance of the area.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, head towards Deception Pass State Park. If you're driving, you can park at the North Beach parking area, which is easily accessible from Highway 20. For those using public transport, the nearest major city is Oak Harbor, WA. From Oak Harbor, you can take a local bus service to Deception Pass State Park, though schedules may vary, so it's best to check ahead.

Trail Overview The loop begins at the North Beach parking area, where you'll immediately be greeted by stunning views of Deception Pass Bridge. The trail initially follows the coastline, offering breathtaking vistas of the water and surrounding islands. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and other bird species that frequent this area.

North Beach Trail The first section of the trail, North Beach Trail, is relatively flat and runs parallel to the shoreline. This part of the hike is about 1.5 km (0.9 miles) long and is perfect for warming up your legs. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels. As you walk, you'll pass through lush forests and might even spot some deer grazing nearby.

Goose Rock Perimeter Trail After enjoying the coastal views, the trail begins to ascend as you transition onto the Goose Rock Perimeter Trail. This section is more challenging, with a steady climb that gains approximately 200 meters (656 feet) in elevation over 2 km (1.2 miles). The trail winds through dense forest, offering occasional glimpses of the surrounding landscape through the trees.

Goose Rock Summit One of the highlights of this hike is reaching the summit of Goose Rock, the highest point in the park. The summit is about 3.5 km (2.2 miles) from the trailhead and offers panoramic views of the San Juan Islands, Mount Baker, and the Olympic Peninsula. This is a great spot to take a break, have a snack, and soak in the scenery.

Historical Significance Deception Pass State Park is rich in history. The area was originally inhabited by the Coast Salish tribes, and you may come across interpretive signs along the trail that provide insights into their way of life. The Deception Pass Bridge, completed in 1935, is an engineering marvel and a significant historical landmark. The bridge was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression and remains a testament to the era's ingenuity and resilience.

Wildlife and Flora As you descend from Goose Rock, the trail loops back towards the coastline. This section is about 2 km (1.2 miles) long and features a mix of forest and open meadows. Keep an eye out for a variety of wildlife, including raccoons, foxes, and numerous bird species. The flora is equally diverse, with Douglas fir, western red cedar, and various wildflowers dotting the landscape.

Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can enhance your hiking experience.

Final Stretch The final stretch of the trail brings you back to the North Beach parking area, completing the loop. This last section is relatively flat and easy, allowing you to cool down as you finish your hike. The entire loop takes about 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

This trail offers a perfect blend of coastal scenery, forested paths, and historical landmarks, making it a must-visit for any hiking enthusiast.