Deception Pass Bridge

What an amazing experience! On either side of the bridge you’ll find stairs that lead down to an underpass and landings, perfect for taking photos or crossing from one side of the bridge to the other. Walking on the bridge can be a thrill, with cars zooming by just inches away and a short handrail offering little protection from the immense drop to the churning waters below; definitely not for the faint of heart. Still, it’s a fantastic spot to appreciate both the impressive engineering and the beauty of nature. There is parking available, but it tends to fill up quickly, so plan accordingly!

Visiting the Deception Pass Bridge in Anacortes, Washington, on March 8, 2025, was an unforgettable experience that combined breathtaking views, thrilling heights, and incredible wildlife sightings. As someone with a fear of heights, I approached this iconic bridge with trepidation, but its beauty and the surrounding natural spectacle made it worth every nerve-wracking step. I arrived at 5:00 AM, just in time to catch the sunrise, which cast a magical glow through the morning fog. Even on a gloomy day, the scene was stunning—the mist swirling around the bridge, the water below shimmering faintly, and the rugged cliffs framing the landscape. The bridge itself is strikingly high, and walking even halfway across took all my courage. The vertigo-inducing views of the churning waters of Deception Pass below were both terrifying and exhilarating. What truly set this visit apart was the wildlife. Standing on the bridge, I spotted bald eagles soaring directly beneath my feet—an awe-inspiring sight that felt almost surreal. Down in the water, a mother seal and her two playful pups were rolling and splashing, completely unfazed by a group of seagulls (or perhaps other white birds) swooping down in an attempt to harass them. The eagles, too, seemed to join the fray, diving toward the seals in a display of raw nature. It was like watching a live nature documentary unfold right in front of me. Beyond the bridge itself, I explored the nearby trails, which offered a different perspective from below the structure. The trails were serene, winding through lush greenery, and provided fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the bridge’s towering arches as a backdrop. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or just someone seeking a memorable adventure, this spot delivers. The Deception Pass Bridge is more than just a structure—it’s a gateway to a vibrant ecosystem and a testament to the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Despite my fear of heights, I’d recommend this experience to anyone visiting Anacortes. Just bring your camera, a sense of wonder, and maybe a little extra courage if heights aren’t your thing! Rating: 5/5 Stars MUST SEE

We visited Deception Pass after seeing RoosenGaarde Tulip gardens in mid April. The views are magical from this bridge. There is a Mt Baker view from this bridge. You can park in walk across the bridge. It is chilly on the bridge even on a sunny day snd little scary as the traffic passes by fast. To cross the bridge, we need to go down the stairs. Sunset views from the bridge are also amazing. You can also drive about an hour to Clinton Ferry Auto Terminal and take the ferry to Mukilteo to go back to Seattle or Redmond.

Beautiful asthetic views. Alittle crowded and not the best parking (lots of cars driving by, alittle dangerous) you can walk around the bridge, under the bridge and go down to the ocean/beach and see the bridge from below. There was a nice ocean fog around the bridge when I showed up. You DO NOT cross the road by walking acrossed it, you cross underneath the bridge utilizing the stairs.

Deception Pass Bridge is truly a breathtaking landmark and one of Washington State’s most iconic destinations. The bridge itself is an engineering marvel, gracefully spanning the dramatic cliffs between Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands. Whether you're driving, walking, or stopping at one of the nearby viewpoints, the scenery is unforgettable. The views from the bridge are spectacular—turquoise waters rushing beneath, evergreen forests surrounding the coastline, and on a clear day, you can even spot the Olympic Mountains and Mount Baker in the distance. Sunset is especially magical, casting a golden hue across the water and landscape. There's also a network of hiking trails nearby, beach access, and plenty of spots for photography, picnicking, and even whale watching if you're lucky. Deception Pass State Park adds even more to the experience with its camping sites and outdoor recreation options. Highly recommended for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who appreciates scenic beauty. A visit to Deception Pass Bridge is a must when exploring the Pacific Northwest.

A suggestion from someone who lives in the area. The sunset was stunning. So glad we stopped!

One of my most favorite places in the world since nineteen ninety one. It is my go to places to meditate to hike to paddleboard. To swim just to enjoy life, they've got camping hiking biking. Paddling plane in the in the lake, you name it deception. Pass state. Park has everything for family. Single people, couples and kids. Just a wonderful place.

Beautiful and scenic ocean cliff view with convenient parking, public restrooms, and hiking trails with stairs down to the beach. Gateway to Whidbey Island across this picturesque and iconic Deception Pass bridge. Offering spectacular views, pedestrian walkways across the bridge, hiking trails to the beach below, lookout parking on both sides, and clean public restrooms on the south side.

We passed by here a few weeks ago and stopped to take a walk across the bridge and down to the water. It's a beautiful view and the bridge is impressive. The traffic is a little close to you as you cross on the bridge so that can be a little nerve-wracking. People that are fearful of heights may want to enjoy views of the bridge from some of the trails. We enjoyed walking across both sides of the bridge and watching a seal play in the water below. We took one trail down to a beach and enjoyed the easy walk on the well maintained trail. Lots of picturesque spots for snapping photos. Parking was a bit of a circus. There are a few different parking lots on both sides of the bridge as well as lower ones near the beaches. They require display of the Discover Pass. Deception Pass Bridge is really beautiful and I'm surprised it's taken me this long to visit. Definitely worth a drive if you live in the area.

The views near and on the bridge are spectacular. It's a narrow bridge and you also can walk across it. The hiking around here is awesome too with views of the ocean spotted with islands. It's a trek from home but totally worth it. The colors of the water are mesmerizing.

I don't go to Whidbey Island often but when I do it's almost always on the Deception Pass Bridge at one point. At first I didn't catch that there were stairs that went under the bridge on both sides but did I think eventually on my second or third trip here. I did notice there was parking but didn't really explore it, also on both sides of the bridge. Well, our latest trip to the island which has been a few years in-between the last we finally stopped at the bridge and explored all around it. The bridge is part of a state park so it's a double bonus if you have a state park pass for the year. We explored underneath the bridge on both sides, went across it and took the pictures that we longed to do the very first time went over the bridge. The views here absolutely gorgeous! So very beautiful and so very grateful that we finally made it here to admire the bridge and stopped the car to explore it more thoroughly.

Driving up to Deception Pass is breath taking. The road seems to narrow as the forest surrounds you to the bridge. The area opens up and the view is amazing as you look down over the sides. We drive past the bridge and down the road a little more to turn around to go into the parking area for the trials. Parking for the day is $10 or you can get a yearly pass for $30. You can walk across the bridge and see the sea leopards down below. Go under the bridge and there's a gorgeous trail to hike up the summit or down to the beach area. Parking can get crowded so try to get there early to avoid the crowds. The hike up Goose Rock Summit trial is well traveled and easier if you stay to the right first then work your way around. Be careful as we've seen coyote at the summit. Garter snakes on the path as well as some blacktail deer. Good 2 hour adventure if you go both directions and take it all in!

Beautiful bridge in Deception Pass State Park and parking next to the bridge was actually easy to find on a sunny summer day. The views while walking on the bridge are breathtaking!

Noble Pass Built in 1935, this National Historic Landmark 1,437' bridge connects Whidbey Island (home of the nuclear wessels) to Fidalgo Island over what might possibly be one of the most gorgeous views I've ever witnessed. We knew that we were going to cross the bridge but really hadn't planned to stop--until we saw the view! Fortunately, they have pull-offs on either end of the bridge, so we were able to stop and enjoy the beauty of the bridge architecture and take in those spectacular views for just a few minutes, as we had an arbitrary schedule to maintain. There's even a similarly named park nearby that allows visitors to check out more of the scenery--which we did not partake. #NextTimeGadget Tldr: Don't be dumb like us and plan to spend at least 2-4 hours reconnoitering this spot out. ^__^ (ovO) {| |} ---"--"---

A beautiful bridge in this state park. There are a few hiking trails around the area which I enjoyed, but were quite muddy. Make sure to bring appropriate shoes and gear. There are several different views you can get of the bridge, which is always greatly appreciated. We viewed it from above, below and right up close. It's truly breathtaking and such a fun time to take in all the angles.

One of my favorite places to go to if it not crowded the weather is perfect when it's hot in the city not to fare to drive so everyone goes definitely worth a trip

The entry point to Deception Pass State Park from the north is this bridge that provides great views of the water. There are many pull outs along the way for you to park and take in the views. If you want, you can also walk on the narrow walkway on the bridge. It can be a bit scary since it's very narrow and there are tons of cars driving right by you. Once you pass the bridge you'll get to the state park where some parking lots will require a Discover Pass for you to park as they have some amenities like restrooms. When we went it was very windy and I didn't take want to take any pictures with the small chance I could drop it (my hands were very cold too). The bridge and the views are beautiful though and there are some short pathways under the bridge where you can get a view from below and also get closer to the water and the strong currents. It's a very nice view and a good place to stop by if you have the opportunity.

A grand entrance into Whidbey Island (or onto Fidalgo Island). The views from here are truly unique. It's narrow, but well protected from oncoming car traffic. There are walkways under the bridge too, but because my family and I were in a time crunch, we didn't have time to explore it. A must-visit when in the island county!

Deception Pass Bridge is currently undergoing road construction improvements during my brief photo-op stop on a windy Sunday afternoon on 3/7/21. Park in the designated parking area or pull over off to the side of the road (no parking on the bridge, of course!). Be mindful of traffic on this busy highway route also! Absolutely beautiful view. Last time I saw this was as a teenager on the bridge and as a 20-something during a stormy detour on the Victoria Clipper. This visit was extremely windy so I kept to the end and chose not to traverse the entire length. It was hard enough taking the few photos and not lose my phone! Again, beautiful view if you have the opportunity to detour.

Looove this spot. So beautiful in so many ways, and so fun to hike down to the beach below from the parking lot up near the bridge (if it's open. It has been closed the last two times we've driven through). I believe there is camping here somewhere also.

The view is really nice here, in a way that doesn't show in photos alone. You can hike down to the beach and there are multiple parking lots in the area. You may need some sort of pass to park in some lots, but there are also nearby pull outs to pull over on the road. This is the main bridge onto Whidbey Island. The other access point is the ferry on the other end, which we avoided because we heard from a local that the wait times can be a bit much. We had a whole day planned out for the island as a day trip from Seattle: fish and chips in Oak Harbor, Ebey's Landing near Coupeville, and slices of loganberry and strawbarb pie in Greenbank. We made it home before dark on a summer day.

Who can resist not stopping to take in such a BEAUTIFUL view?!? Im so grateful I have the privilege to live and work less than an hour from Oak Harbor, Whidbey Island, San Juan, and Anacortes; VIEWS for days!!! If you're planning a visit be mindful that there is currently construction on the bridge which occupies a lot of the parking and there could be a lot of traffic depending on the time of day. Regardless of when you go wear comfortable clothes, and shoes to explore nature while taking in the natural views; you won't regret it!!

Very nice bridge with amazing views on both sides. Park at the visitor center, pay a small parking fee, and hike below the bridge to enjoy the structure, beach, and water flow. There are almost always large tree sections floating in the current. This is a peaceful place to enjoy natural features and engineering accomplishments.

It's a beloved bridge in the Pacific Northwest that's on the National Register of Historic Places. It's famous for connecting Whidbey Island to Fidalgo Island, as travelers had taken a ferry before the bridge was built. Deception Pass State Park just wouldn't be one of the best state parks had this bridge not be here. It's iconic and yes, older, with just two lanes of traffic, so is narrower than one would like. But it's pretty cool to see. At the park, you can walk under the bridge where you can see how it was constructed or you can walk across the bridge, as the sides are designated for pedestrians. Just be careful because it is a narrow pathway! Honestly, when I walked across I was freaking scared because it is super high up and the barrier is on the lower side. But for those brave enough, I recommend walking over, just to be a part of its history. Bucket list item for any Washingtonian!

Deception Pass Bridge is so cool! It's a historic bridge connected two islands off the coast of western Washington state. Built over 100 years ago, it still hosts 20,000 vehicles a day. The bridge itself is gorgeous, which is why there's space to stop and hike down to see it (there's even a beach and camping below the bridge). There's also a 3-feet wide walk area across the bridge for those not scared of heights. It's a MUST-SEE when in Washington State!

This place is BEAUTIFUL!! This bridge is amazing! The stunning views are breathtaking in any weather and you can experience them many different view points. There is a pedestrian path on both side of the bridge where you can walk across and take it all in. There are hiking trails and lookout stations as well. The hike downhilli was probably .2 miles. And very easy. Once on the beach the view of the bridge above is lovely and will provide a perfect backdrop to your picture!This is a must visit if you're in the area. Very family friendly and even dog friendly.

Love the pass and all of Whidbey. Was stationed there and go back when I can. https://www.flickr.com/gp/agentz92505/83qA5p

I drive across Deception Pass Bridge or take the Washington State Ferries every time I go to my grandparents' house on Whidbey Island. The bridge is elevated high above the water through Deception Pass. The pass has different names from different peoples with history in the area. The drop to the water is straight down except on one spigot of land between the sides of the pass. If you are afraid of heights this might not be the most enjoyable experience crossing the bridge. When I was learning to drive one of the culminating points was successfully driving across this bridge. The channel itself is fun to traverse via boat. Fun to look up at the bridge as you zoom underneath. The view is amazing on both clear and overcast days. If you want to explore the beach beneath the bridge I recommend staying at or exploring Deception Pass State Park. There is also a small area you can pull off the road in your car and use the restroom and walk out onto the bridge to take in the views. Still enjoy crossing this bridge, though it still freaks some of my family out. For this reason not all of my family has walked out on to the bridge. Also, be very careful when driving across on a windy day. Sometimes the wind can jolt one's vehicle sideways.

Beautiful view from the bridges and easy access trails. Awesome trail that leads to lead beach. Definitely a must visit when you are on or near Whidbey Island.

Gorgeous views from the bridge! I felt like I fell into a pirate movie, a narrow pass with islands protruding from the water. I imagine cannon fire and gold filled ships... it really is stunning and easy to let your imagination run wild- pick any movie scene you can remember with similar views and the storyline will just fill in for you. The bridge itself was shorter than I thought it would be- which my son laughed and laughed over this comment saying the bridge deceived me... Deception Pass... haha, not. You are well above the water, which makes for fantastic views! I imagine- if sunset appeared, it would be spectacular from the bridge! I did not see a sunset in the four nights I was in the area- gray skies only fading to black. I hope the next time I visit will be a summertime trip! Can't wait to thoroughly explore the area!

Gone are the days when you had to bang a saw with a mallet and wait for the unscheduled ferry to take you between Whidbey Island and Fidalgo. Construction on this bridge began in 1934 and it was completed in 1935 (are you listening, State of Hawaii? Our freeways have pot holes since 1985 and still not fixed). It's an amazing feat of construction that my mind can't quite grasp; how did they build this bridge over the super turbulent waters below? Mind boggling. I'm also wondering how this bridge got its own review...isn't the bridge part of the Deception Pass State Park? I guess this bridge gets it's very own page, it's that special. As others have mentioned, you gotta pay to park, baby. Fork out that $10 right now and battle your way to the parking lot and hope you get lucky as parking is a premium, ten bucks or not. The parking lot itself is small with a limited amount of parking, so good luck. Also, good luck with the public toilets, they are always busy. Take hand sanitizer, it was gross. The walk on the bridge is quite an adventure. Be aware of some ass hats that like to scare tourists by yelling super loudly or honking loudly at you while you are trying to take a selfie or a group picture. I can only imagine the amount of lost cameras, phones and other devices on the bottom of Deception Pass. The width of the walkway is only three feet wide, so be prepared to walk side-ways if other people are walking in the opposite direction; if they are wide, you are in trouble. There are some stairs on either end of the bridge that you can take to cross over to the other side. The under belly of the behemoth bridge is pretty amazing, but watch out when you take pictures, the drop is pretty scary and there isn't a rope or fence holding you back. If you fall into the Pass you'll probably drown...and die. Have fun.

Beautiful view but parking is horrendous. I recommend entering the park just south of the bridge and make the 20 minute hike up to the bridge.

Deception Pass Bridge is a beautiful landmark and it's worth it to stop here and take in the view. Parking is available for free along the side of the road before the bridge on either side. Otherwise, there's a paid lot by the restrooms on the south side. There are sidewalks on either side of the bridge to look around Deception Pass Park. We saw seals on our most recent visit. There are bald eagles that nest in the trees and other wildlife to see too. Halfway across the bridge is a staircase to go down to cross over to the other side of the bridge. It's illegal to try to cross the bridge another way.

The Deception Pass Bridge is one of the most photographed bridges in this state. It's a short two-span two-lane bridge connecting Whidbey Island to Fidalgo Island. It's total length is only 1,487 feet. To get a better perspective, that's only a little over a quarter mile. The Canoe Pass Spans 512 feet and the Deception Pass spans 976 feet. The road width is 22 feet. We came by on a nice weekend in January so parking wasn't too much of an issue. However, I can see this being an problem during the summer months. There is 3 feet of walkway on both sides of the bridge. I recommmend stopping to take in the breathtaking views.

One of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen anywhere was standing on Deception Pass Bridge one evening during blue hour which is that time between sunset and dark when everything is still visible but is lit in the blue spectrum. The sky was still glowing with that pale ethereal pinkness that almost looks like it's sparkling, when from below, a shrimping boat came chugging under the bridge with it's shrimp lamps blazing orange above the water and it's lines strung out from the boat. Behind it a phosphorescent trail of glowing phytoplankton lit the ocean in it's wake leaving a line of light behind the boat as it disappeared into the darkening night and onto the Straight of Juan de Fuca. Okay, so I've been over a lot of bridges in a lot of places, famous ones and not so famous ones in different countries and this bridge has one of the most sublime views anywhere. The bridge is nice but it's the view that matters. It's gorgeous. Fidalgo Island is to the north and the bridge connects to Whidbey Island on the south end. In the middle is a little, tiny island that holds it up in the middle. The straight between the two islands is deep, swift and dramatic. The view in any direction is gorgeous, but it's the view to the west that owns my heart. It's breathtaking. It starts out narrow with fjord like cliffs rising up to the bridge, (look down on the cliffs during summer and you may see puffins) then widens out to encompass the Straight of Juan De Fuca. This view is stunning any time of day, but especially sings during Spring sunsets when the sun hangs like a giant orange ball above the straight then slowly sinks into the water. It's also amazing during dusk when the water glows from the reflection of the blue and pink sky above and everything has a surreal, otherworldly feel to it. If you visit the Puget Sound basin and you don't get to Deception Pass Bridge, you will have missed out. That is, unless you don't like nature, then in that case visit the Space Needle and call it good.

Description Pass is a strait separating Whidbey Island from Fidalgo Island, in the northwest part of the U.S. state of Washington. It connects Skagit Bay, part of Puget Sound, with the Strait of Juan de Fuca. A pair of bridges known collectively as Deception Pass Bridge cross Deception Pass. Location: Anacortes and Oak Harbor, Washington, United States with 2,000,000+ visitors.

Sure, at first glance the DPB may look like "just" a bridge. A high, narrow, vintage, scary bridge - but a bridge nonetheless. But it's really way more than just a giant metal structure that transports you to Whidbey Island. The bridge is a destination in itself. Coming from the Anacortes side of things, you actually cross a smaller bridge before you arrive at the mothership. And on the tiny rock outcropping between the two bridges you'll find a small parking lot with a viewing area and a trail that goes UNDER the bridge. Talk about a photo op! The trail is fairly safe but, warning, there are not any railings so hold tight to the little ones if you go. But it's definitely worth it for the cool views under the bridge. You can also cross over (er, under) to the other side of the bridge where steps lead you up to the sidewalk allowing you to walk across its mighty span and look into the swirling, famously strong currents below. On the Whidbey Island side of the bridge is another, larger parking area that's part of the state park (you'll need your Discover Pass or to pay the $10 daily fee to park here). There are also restrooms here, in case the earlier trail scared the well, you-know-what out of you!

Deception Pass has been a icon for Whidbey Island since the 1930's and has the most amazing views from the bridge looking into the Puget Sound, Cascade Mountains, Olympic Mountains and the San Juan Islands. Here are a few facts about Deception Pass: With 4,134 acres, 14.6 miles of saltwater shoreline, three lakes, and 35 miles of trails. This great achievement began with an idea from a New England seaman, Captain George Morse Some 700 cars traveled on the bridge on July 31, 1935, the day it was dedicated About 20,000 cars now cross the bridge 180 feet above its swirling water every day In 1866, more than a thousand acres were set aside for a military reservation that was partially fortified during World War I.

Great views of the coast and inland water ways from both sides of these bridges. Take the time to park and walk them as a quick drive by just isn't enough. The two bridges are heavily trafficked but have walkways under the to cross safely to the opposite side. Plenty of good hiking here as well.

This is a must, while visiting Anacortes and Fidalgo area in Washington. Just driving there is a delight. You will pass farms with many corn fields, all sorts of animals and even a little wine yard along the way. The kids would love the little road trip. Before heading to Deception Bridge and Park, stop by the town of Anacortes. It's is a beautiful scenic fishing town with many restaurants and they even have a Maritime museum at a reasonable price. Parking is available along the street or in the marina area by Safeway on your left (the museum is right there on the right). Eat lunch there at the many restaurants or pick up some food at Safeway to take with you on a picnic at Deception. Try to get to Deception Bridge early at around 10am because after 12pm it becomes very full of traffic and parking is difficult especially in the weekend. Bring $10 cash if you park on the other side of the bridge or at the park. Also, you can park for free along the street before the bridge or after. Once at Deception Bridge, there's a perfect spot to take a picture from an area they have with a plaque by the stairs. Before crossing the bridge, go down the stairs but be careful once you are down it's a bit rocky and sandy (make sure you hold you children tight) there no guardrails. It's a very long way down but a beautiful view of the water and the bridge. While crossing the bridge, take caution because it's a narrow bridge with cars passing along you and some will beep and scare you (so hold on to your cameras, phones, or belongings). Afterwards, head to the park to hike the trails or to the beach. We went to the Bay and parked at a boat launch area. There you can rent kayaks and also have a picnic there. It's a peaceful and beautiful setting with driftwood and rocky pebbles everywhere. They even have a wooden walking dock to take a stroll on. It's absolutely breathtaking and we highly recommend it to anyone to come and visit this beautiful landmark and park.

Always beautiful!! I've been here several times and it's always awe inspiring. It IS a bit scary if you're weary of bridges like I am but always worth it! It's also great because on the south side of the bridge (Whidbey side) are some really great trails to walk - just off the side of the road. There be some on the other side as well but I've always done them on the Whidbey side. Definitely worth checking out - it's certainly a doable day trip from Seattle - you can drive through deception pass on the way there and return via ferry!

Such a pretty bridge to pass. Too bad that I was driving so I couldn't fully enjoy the views. I love the bridge's architecture. It looks really nice from looking at it from afar.

Don't walk across this bridge: thin side walk, short guard rails, hard to pass people, high traffic, noisy. Stay in your car and drive across for a pleasant experience.

This bridge connects Whidbey Island to Fidalgo Island. It is such a cool looking bridge. There are actually two bridges and you can walk across both of the bridges. The two bridges span 1,486 feet in length. You can also walk under the bridges. It is a bit scary to look down but so worth exploring and actually walking across. The bridges are 180 feet above the water. This bridge is pretty popular and we can see why.

Wonderfully located. Close to the city city with so many things to see. Like fort Casey, horseback riding, etc, but still has the woodsy feel. Easy 1/2 mile hike to the ocean. Beautifully maintained campsites. Bathrooms super clean. Showers, Garbage, water, electric, paved main pathway. Full of campers, but many decently quite and private spots. Our campsite was a little on the small side and my daughter didn't necessarily love the sound of the jets. But overall loved it and we'd come back!

The views get really pretty during a nice day. It was a little scary to walk on it but the experience was amazing. Wish there's more things to do tho. Most people park on the side. This place is a must see otherwise there's not much to do on this island lol.

Really pretty views nice hiking. Ocean access from multiple points on the trail. The bridge is gorgeous and you get quintessential pnw views. Met some locals and they were insanely friendly.

Just a gorgeous bridge and scenery. The pedestrian walk across the bridge is superb. Looking down is somewhat scary for those who are afraid of height but you will have a most wonder view from both sides of the bridge. Water framed by the pine trees on one side and rock formation on the other side. Mixture of green and blue color water frames against the blue sky. God's gift!

The bridge isn't a business but it's a beautiful place to visit. We drive over it twice a day and the views after all these years never get old.

Breathtaking! This is one of the most beautiful views on earth. Do not miss it! Thank you God for making such beauty!

Do not recommend I almost fell off, could have cost my life.pls dont come her u could lose your life or someone u know.

Every time we do a day trip to Canada we always make sure to take the Anacortes exit and go west off of the I-5 freeway going south. Make sure to follow the signs that direct you towards state route 20 Deception Pass/Mukilteo Clinton Ferry. Since you will be going south after going about 6 miles west coming from the I-5 freeway, you are better off making your way back towards Seattle on the Mukilteo/Clinton ferry. You will be backtracking if you decide to go back towards the I-5 freeway. As you go make your way south towards the bridge, you will have several options of pulling over and parking to the side of several cutouts. You can walk on to the bridge from there. You also have the option of driving across the bridge and taking the first turnoff on the right just after the bridge ends where there is a decent sized parking lot. We usually park in that lot because there are bathrooms there and not only can you access the bridge, but there is a stairway that leads down to the beach below. The views from the bridge are spectacular. Just be careful if you have kids with you for the bypassing traffic can get pretty close to you especially when big vehicles go by. Also, make sure you are dressed accordingly for the seasons in this area can get pretty extreme like chilly, cold bluster winds in the winter. There are 2 negatives I would like to point out just so you are prepared. The first one is minor, There is very little to no signal reception on the bridge or on the beach below. I was able to check in off of one bar after about 30 tries. My carrier is AT&T. Not sure about other carriers. The second negative and its a major one is that you have to pay 10 bucks to park in the parking lot now! I talked to some people that were just leaving and they said the 10 dollar thing just started last year. I call BS on this because im trying to figure out where the money is going. Definitely not the bathrooms because they all literally smell like urine and feces. You'll be lucky if the paper towels and hand soap are stocked. It seemed like every time we went which was every couple years or so that it never seemed to have those things. So instead of the as good as gets 5 star rating this place deserves (even with the super stanky and unstocked bathrooms), the 10 dollar thing is even worse! You gotta pay just to admire nature's beauty? Who is the greedy bastard that came up with this? You guys just gave me one more reason not to come here any more. Recreation fee my a$$. Yelp 2015 Review #49 "It used to be a deception until you had to pay 10 bucks" 549 overall

We crossed the bridge, actually 2 bridges, going to Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island and again on our return 2 days later to Fidalgo Island. There is parking on each side of the bridge and a walkway across them. I was fortunate on our return to find space on Pass Island where you can take a set of stairs down to an excellent viewing point. The overall setting is magnificent, a highly recommended stop on your journey to or from Whidbey Island.

This might look like it's just a bridge, but it's so much more than that! Be sure to park your car and explore (with a discover pass, or you can buy a day pass). Walk across the bridge for a beautiful view of the water and eye-catching pictures. Below on both sides is lots of exciting things to explore and find, including a beach to relax and have a picnic! Definitely recommend putting this place on your "to visit" list!

Water flows incredibly fast here, green hues of wildly varying shades mixing with the blue tidal flow from the sea daub an ever-changing palette of creation's greatest artist. This is a must-stop view for those with time to smell the roses. Steep cliffs fall breathtakingly close to certain doom on a misstep from any of the numerous hiking trails snaking around this gorge. It's cold here in December and you can bet the water is icy cold. My lover tells me some people SUP (Stand Up Paddle) this place but I wouldn't hazard this experience seeing how fast the tidal flow runs through this pass. I would not want to get caught alone out there. Don't be deceived (read the plaque from my photo) into thinking this area isn't worth a photograph. It is. Just be careful.

Lovely drive with even lovelier views. If you ever need to take a breather and contemplate on how big this world is and how little you are in comparison, it's worth the visit. We explored under and across the bridge. Met a handful of people exploring with their kids and dogs. Fun little day activity. Just sit there and watch the boats race each other. A bit of fresh air is good for the soul.

This place is far more beautiful in person. If you visit Washington state, this is a must-see destination. It's a perfect place for a hike with family and friends. The perfect date with a partner and a great conversation starter. It seems that the locals were completely used to this view but I don't see how one could ever be used to this. I will be here again.