Padilla Bay Reserve

This wonderful, accessible trail stretches from the delta of the Skagit River to the estuary where the river meets the Puget Sound, and then along the bay until nearly reaching Bayview State Park. You can access the trail from the north end (near the park) or at the south end less than a mile off highway 20.

We accessed at the south end which is easier because there is a parking lot right there at the head of the trail. The first 1/2 mile or so meanders along the edges of the river, still within view of the highway and other structures. So if you’re not able to do the full 2+ mile out and back and would prefer to walk along the bay then it would be better to start on the north end.

Key stats:

Distance: The trail is 2.2 miles long, mostly along Padilla Bay.

Wheelchair accessible parking? Yes, one spot at the south trailhead (in an otherwise small parking lot). At the north entrance you probably need to park at Bayview State Park and walk a few blocks to the trailhead.

Wheelchair accessible bathrooms? No

Trail condition? Hard-packed gravel, smooth rolling. Totally flat, wide trail.

Highlights?

Lucas says, “We saw a Peregrine Falcon so that was pretty cool!” In general there are a ton of birds to see and the trail is famous among bird watchers. The views of the estuary and bay are also spectacular. We were lucky to hit the trail on an overcast day — there’s no tree cover so it’s sure to get hot on sunny summer days.

More information about Padilla Bay here and here.