The best walks and hikes in Fidalgo Bay Aquatic Reserve
4.9
(31)
645
hikers
63
hikes
Hikes in Fidalgo Bay Aquatic Reserve explore a landscape of coastal shorelines, tidal flats, and adjacent forested lands. The area, located near Anacortes, features a network of trails that includes both paved paths along the bay and more varied routes through woodlands and around lakes. Many of the Fidalgo Bay Aquatic Reserve trails offer views of the water and surrounding mountains, passing through habitats like salt marshes and eelgrass beds.
Best hiking trails in Fidalgo Bay Aquatic Reserve
- The most…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
1
hikers
8.23km
02:05
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.05km
01:19
260m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7.24km
02:04
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
18
hikers
5.82km
01:37
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
10.6km
03:05
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Fidalgo Bay Aquatic Reserve
Other adventures in Fidalgo Bay Aquatic Reserve
Tips from the Community
Tommy Thompson Parkway is a great car-free route out to March Point, with nice water views along the trestle. But heads up—seagulls drop shells here to crack them open, leaving sharp debris that’s notorious for causing flats. Ride with caution, and if you’re on skinny tires, consider walking your bike across the worst sections.
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Mount Erie is the highest point on Fidalgo Island, topping out at 1,273 feet. The climb up is steep but paved, and the summit rewards you with big views. On clear days, you can spot Mount Baker to the northeast and Mount Rainier far off to the southeast. A solid goal for a road ride if you’re up for the challenge.
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This quarter-mile trestle bridge spans Fidalgo Bay, giving elevated views of the water and surrounding landscapes. However, this area is also a dining area for local gulls, who drop clams onto the bridge to crack them open, leaving behind sharp shell fragments that can litter the path. While the city occasionally sweeps the trail, watch your step.
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99% of my bike rides utilize this route out of Anacortes. Beware the flying clams!
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The trestle provides a car-free route to March's Point, BUT there is a downside. Sea gulls use the trestle to crack open clams, dropped from above, and the pointy shards litter the trestle until the sweeping angels come. I've punctured many times here, and ruined a couple of expensive bike tires. I wish there was some kind of "Shell Report" or webcam or some way of knowing the condition of the trestle before you head out on your bike. And if I wanted to walk my bike across the trestle, I wouldn't have ridden a bike.
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You can leave the bland roadside trail and ride along the waterfront, behind Anthony's. Just watch out for peds!
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Anacortes is a base for recreational boating and has a marina. A brewery and a small regional airport are also part of this small town.
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The seagulls use the Parkway as a place to break open shellfish, leaving behind sharp broken seashells. Take care if you have thinner road bike tires.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Fidalgo Bay Aquatic Reserve?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted on the trails around Fidalgo Bay, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. The paved, flat surface of the Tommy Thompson Trail is particularly suitable for a walk with your leashed dog, offering great views without rugged terrain.
What are some good, easy hikes for families?
The Fidalgo Bay area is great for family outings. The most accessible option is the Tommy Thompson Trail, which is paved and flat, making it perfect for strollers and small children. For a more traditional hike through the woods, the Heart Lake loop from Clearidge is an easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) path that offers a gentle walk through the forest.
Where is the best place to park for the Tommy Thompson Trail?
There are several access points with parking for the Tommy Thompson Trail. A popular spot is at the northern end near 22nd Street and R Avenue in Anacortes. Another convenient parking area is located mid-trail at the Fidalgo Bay RV Park, which provides direct access to the trestle portion of the trail.
What kind of wildlife can I see in the reserve?
Fidalgo Bay is a rich ecosystem, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. It's an important stop for migratory water birds, and you can often spot great blue herons. At low tide, the tidal flats reveal diverse intertidal life. From the trail's trestle, keep an eye on the water for marine life, including the occasional sea lion.
Are there any circular or loop hikes available?
Yes, while the main Tommy Thompson Trail is an out-and-back route, the adjacent Anacortes Community Forest Lands feature numerous loop trails. The Whistle Lake loop is a popular 3.6-mile (5.8 km) trail that circles a beautiful lake through the forest.
What makes the Fidalgo Bay ecosystem special?
The reserve protects a unique marine environment characterized by expansive eelgrass beds, tidal flats, and salt marshes. These habitats are critical for many species, serving as spawning grounds for forage fish like surf smelt and Pacific herring. The bay is also a site for native Olympia oyster restoration projects.
How many hiking trails are in the Fidalgo Bay area?
There are over 50 trails to explore in and around the Fidalgo Bay Aquatic Reserve. These range from easy, paved shoreline paths to more moderate forested hikes with significant elevation gain, offering plenty of options for all skill levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails here?
The trails in this region are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and the bay, as well as the well-maintained paths that make the area so accessible.
Are there any challenging hikes with good views?
For a more strenuous hike with rewarding views, the Sugar Loaf & Mount Erie loop is an excellent choice. This moderate 4.4-mile (7.0 km) trail involves over 1,200 feet of elevation gain and offers spectacular vistas over the surrounding islands and Fidalgo Bay.
Can I go tide pooling in Fidalgo Bay?
Yes, tide pooling is a popular activity. During low tide, the bay's exposed tidal flats reveal a fascinating world of intertidal organisms. Check the local tide charts before you go to plan your visit for the best conditions to explore the shoreline.
Are there any longer, more forested hikes available?
If you're looking for a longer walk through the woods, consider the Lower Loop Trail in the Anacortes Community Forest Lands. It's a 4.7-mile (7.6 km) route that winds through a beautiful forest setting, offering a peaceful escape from the shoreline.
Is the area suitable for cycling as well as hiking?
Absolutely. The Tommy Thompson Trail is a multi-use paved path and is very popular with cyclists. Its flat, 3.3-mile length provides a scenic and easy ride along the bay, making it ideal for a leisurely cycle.
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