Fog prevailed throughout most of Western Washington lowlands. A quick check of the Anacortes ferry terminal web cam showed relatively clear skies for that area. Having just recently read about Skagit County's Sharpe Park and Montgomery-Duban headlands, we set off to explore trails there. This hike far surpassed any expectations. Cedar forests, stunning groves of madrona trees, rocky shorelines, and phenomenal views of the San Juan Islands can all be found. A trail map at the trailhead is a good orientationl; signage along the trails in this 110 acre preserve is adequate but varies. A short 3/4 mile trail leads to Sare's head. Here, we gazed out at the San Juan islands, Olympic mountains, Deception Pass entrance; Burrows and Allan Islands. In my opinion, this is one of the best vistas in the North Sound region. Although we hiked the opposite direction, hiking counterclockwise on the Bluff trail then on to Sare's head makes for a loop starting with a steeper descent and ending with a more gradual re-gain of the elevation. Elevation difference between highest and lowest points is about 400 ft. The loop is about 3 miles (one could add another mile on side trails). The trail meanders up,down and around through Madrona/conifer forests and coastal vistas. Lots of roots on the trail but no downed trees. My new favorite winter hike in the lowlands. Can;t wait to return to see spring wildflowers here.

Today was a beautiful 4th of July but since we were having a family get together I had to do a close hike so I headed to Sares View Point on Fidalgo Island which is part of Sharpe Park, Montgomery Dubin Headlands. This county park is mostly unknown except for the locals and they like to keep it that way but I am about to expose it. This was part of hike #25 this year for me. The views from this park are spectacular as you can see from my pictures and video. This park is located less than 2 miles from Deception Pass State Park off Rosario Road. The trail system consists of trails that go down to the water and some that hike up to this bluff view point. Total trails are about 4 to 5 miles in length if you hike them all. Checkout the video of this hike or over 185 other hikes I have done in Washington State on my youtube channel at lmm3181 or click on this direct link for this hike. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03X8zm_FMlk As always get out and see this great state and enjoy your hiking! Take Care Mike

For April Fools Day, we did two short hikes in the Anacortes area. One of these hikes was at Sharpe Park, located just north of Deception Pass State Park. This park is small but spectacularly situated on a cliff overlooking the Puget Sound and San Juan Islands. There is a dense network of trails that tour the park's forests, wetlands, and rocky bluffs. There is even a "Starbucks Cutoff" trail -yes, it is named after a certain large coffee-pushing corporation, who must have donated some money. A semi-loop route of about 2.5 miles hits all of the best features. Not a long hike to be sure, but it seems longer than it is due to the rich scenery. You'll want to to slow down and spend some time here. The trails are rough in places due to the rocky terrain but seem to be getting maintained, as all blowdowns were cut when we visited the place. The side trip to Sares Head is not to be missed - what a view! We were lucky to enjoy sun and blue skies at this magnificent spot.

Being a sunny day, we decided to head to Fidalgo Island for a little hiking. First stop was a quick climb up a short trail at the base of Mount Erie to a bench and view of Lake Erie. Next we headed to Sharpe Park - Montgomery Duban Headlands trails. We took the outer loop trails with a side trip to Sares Head for a view of the Olympics, Whidbey Island, and San Juan Islands. Though this trail is just over 2 miles according to the sign map, it seems a lot farther since it has considerable elevation change along the bluff, but that makes for a good workout. At Sares head, we rested a bit while enjoying the views and watching a Bald Eagle soar overhead. We hiked up the hill behind the bench at Sares head to see if the views were better -- no, not really, but we discovered someone had carried up 3 lawn chairs.

For those eager to explore our gorgoeous coast line while most trails are still covered with snow give Sharpe County Park a shot. Located in Skagit County. Take exit 230 and go west on Highway 20. Cross bridge to Fidalgo Island. Turn left and follow Highway 20 south toward Whidbey Island. Drive by Pass Lake, and turn right on Rosario Road. Another 1,7 miles and the park is on the left. We were the only people last Saturday on this short forest hike. The trail ends after about one mile on a wide bluff with spectacular views of the Olympics and the San Juan Islands. No better place to have a spring picnic. Passing through Conway, on our way home, we were witness to one of nature's great spectacles: thousands of Snow Geese, probably spooked by a hawk, all taking off at once.