Rockport State Park

Rockport State Park was once a campground, but because some of the giant trees started to fall in storms the state shut down the camping.  Now there are five miles of trails, 2 miles of which is accessible.   The old growth trees and ecosystem are breathtaking: huge Douglas Firs dripping with lichen, carpets of ferns, birds, slugs, and interpretive signs with information about the inhabitants of the complex ecosystem.   This is one of the most beautiful forest hikes we’ve done.

Key stats:

Distance: 2 mile loop.  Take the “Evergreen Trail” out of the parking lot, cross the entrance road, and make your way to the “West Loop Interpretive Trail.”   It’s about a half mile from the parking lot to reach the loop, and the loop itself is 1 mile.   See map.

Wheelchair accessible parking? Yes, at least one spot in the main parking lot.

Wheelchair accessible bathrooms? We forgot to check.  Website for the state park says there is a restroom but does not clarify accessibility.

Trail condition? Hard-packed gravel and dirt.  Some roots that we were able to go around.  There is some grade to the trail.  Going clockwise around the loop there is a somewhat steep (by ADA standards) downhill section near the end.  At one point along the loop, there is a sign marking “not for wheelchair users” pointing at a spur trail – helpful signage!

Highlights?

The huge old trees, the feeling of being in a very alive and wild forest (even if you can hear the road on parts of the trail).  On the day we were there  – a Sunday in late summer- we only saw a couple other people.  We also learned a lot from the interpretive signs.  Fun fact: a “dead” snag can be a home to living things and food for others for up to 500 years!  This park is also quite near Rasar State Park, with more accessible hiking including view of the Skagit River.

More information about Rockport State Park here.