15/02/2025
𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤
This stunning strait was named by British Royal Navy officer and expedition leader Captain George Vancouver as "Deception Pass" in the late 1700s. He was deceived by its narrow waterway and geography, which led him to believe that Whidbey Island was a peninsula, when in fact it is an island.
The iconic structure, collectively called Deception Pass Bridge, is actually made up of two (2) two-lane bridges, the Canoe Pass Bridge and the Deception Pass Bridge, that connect the islands of Fidalgo and Whidbey in Washington, USA. This architectural gem was built during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and was completed in 1935.
The pedestrian walk on either side of the bridge is popular stop for visitors, with its commanding views of the Pass, the surrounding islands, the rugged cliffs and old growth forests, the occasional boats passing by, as well as the dramatic waters, mesmerizing whirlpools and tides flowing in opposite directions. There have been Orca, Minke whale, seal, porpoise and dolphin sightings in the area.
The Park's diversity of landscape offers plenty of scenic views and recreational activities to the traveller - from rugged cliffs jutting out from the sea, freshwater lakes, accessible beaches, quiet forests and trails, bio-diverse marshes and wetlands, to family and pet-friendly campgrounds.
When planning your visit to Seattle, do include a trip to Deception Pass State Park (under 2 hours by car). Best to explore the Park and stay for a day or two in any of its campgrounds or in nearby town of Oak Harbor.
