Seattle: Whidbey Island Deception Pass + Winter Birding Trip – Deception Pass State Park, Washington

EXPERIENCE

Wrapped in epic landscapes, Deception Pass is a must-see. Whidbey Island, Anacortes, and the San Juan Islands surround this Northwestern gem! If you’ve been to the Seattle area before, this is your opportunity to dig a little deeper and experience another incredible destination in Washington.

In the summer, millions of visitors explore this stunning collection of jagged cliffs, ripping currents, and secret coastlines–making Deception Pass Washington’s most-visited State Park. With huge views of the the San Juan Islands, the Salish Sea, the Olympic Mountains, and Vancouver Island, it’s no wonder why this hidden highlight is so well-loved! While it’s a hot spot in the summer, we also love it in the winter. We have coffee and tea to ward off those crisp PNW mornings and a local lunch to maximize time in the park. Few places are more perfectly Northwestern!

SAMPLE ITINERARY
8:00A Depart
We can meet travelers at their hotel in Downtown Seattle or a centrally located meeting spot.

9:00A Birdwatch in Skagit Valley
Begin the day with visit to the Skagit Valley, a renowned winter birding destination for being home to the largest population of migratory snow geese and trumpeter swans that gather here from December-February in the tens of thousands.

Bring your binoculars and spend the morning searching for waterfowl, shore birds, eagles, raptors and more who congregate to take advantage of the mild winters of the Pacific Northwest.

11:00A Deception Pass
Deception Pass reveals a hidden pocket of rugged wilderness and unbelievable history. Take our time beachcombing the rocky shore and exploring forested trails that wind around with views of the Salish Sea, all the while keeping eyes peeled for marine wildlife.

1:00P Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a locall lunch in a covered picnic area at Deception Pass. If you’re up for it, challenge yourself to walk across the 180-foot-high bridge that spans the width of Deception Pass for an exhilarating experience and unbeatable views.

2:30P Whidbey Island
Spend the afternoon exploring the diverse history of Whidbey Island, with a visit to a 120+ year old military fort complete with bunkers and batteries and the idyllic Admiralty Head Lighthouse. Learn about the cultural importance of Greenbank Farms (once the largest producer of loganberries in the state) to the community. Indulge in a tasting of locally made loganberry wine*, pickup a homemade pie from Whidbey Pies*, or peruse the collection of art from local makers.. There is something for everyone at this spot. *Food and beverage purchases not included in the price of the tour.

5:30P Ferry Ride
Finish off an adventurous day with a peaceful ferry across the Puget Sound from Whidbey back to the mainland. In the winter months, this is timed well as you can enjoy watching the sunset behind the Olympic Mountains in the distance. We have a short drive before we reach the city.

6:30P Downtown Seattle Drop Off
Upon returning, we’ll drop travelers off where we found them.

HIGHLIGHTS

Visit world class birding destinations to watch wintering migratory birds.
Explore old growth trees, beautiful bluffs, and rugged shoreline.
Visit a historic military fort and historic lighthouse used actively until WWII.
Taste a bit of the local agrucultural activity of the island with a farm visit.
Watch out for deer, eagles, seals, otters, porpoises, whales and more

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