Get Outside!

Hikers experience spectacular views from the top of the Bluff Loop Trail, with the Cascade Mountains, the Olympic Mountains, Mt. Rainier and the San Juan Islands dotting the vista.

A Destination for Adventure and Heritage

Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a tranquil escape. With opportunities for hiking, kayaking, sailing, camping, and exploring one of Washington’s oldest maritime towns, the Reserve offers something for everyone.

What Makes Ebey's Landing Special?

• Three State Parks: Fort Casey, Fort Ebey, and Ebey's Landing State Park offer diverse recreational opportunities, from historical exploration to breathtaking views.
• Extensive Trails: Over 30 miles of Island County trails wind through forests, prairies, and coastline, perfect for hiking and biking.
• Public Beaches: Enjoy the Reserve's spectacular shorelines, ideal for beachcombing, picnicking, or simply soaking in the views.
• Birdwatching: The Reserve is nationally significant for birding, offering prime opportunities to spot eagles, herons, and other wildlife.
• Historic Coupeville: This low-carbon, walkable town is one of Washington's oldest. Visitors can enjoy fine dining, unique shopping, and a stroll along the iconic Coupeville Wharf, where orcas are occasional visitors.

Heritage Tourism

Start your journey at the Island County Historical Museum, located on the shores of Penn Cove. The museum offers a deep dive into the area's rich cultural and natural history, setting the stage for your exploration of the Reserve.

Respect the Working Landscape

Unlike most National Park Service areas, Ebey's Landing is primarily privately owned and actively farmed. Please respect property owners by adhering to posted signs and avoiding fields, even if they appear empty—these areas often contain sensitive crops.

Favorite Ways to Experience the Reserve

• Hike the Bluff Trail for stunning coastal views.
• Kayak in Penn Cove and explore its tranquil waters.
• Camp at one of the Reserve’s State Parks.
• Visit the Admiralty Head Lighthouse at Fort Casey State Park.
• Take a self-guided historic walking tour through Coupeville.
• Watch for wildlife at Crockett Lake or along the Reserve's beaches.

Whether you're drawn to its natural beauty, rich history, or vibrant community, Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

 

Ebey's Prairie Ridge Trail enroute to intersect with the Bluff Loop Trail.  Cascade Mountains in the distance.

Hiking in Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve

The Reserve offers a range of trails that highlight its unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and agricultural heritage. Whether you’re looking for coastal views, prairie landscapes, or a quiet stroll through historic farmlands, there’s a trail for every hiker.

The Bluff Loop Trail

A moderate hike that combines coastal bluff trails with a beach walk, the Bluff Loop Trail showcases the marine ecosystems of the Straits of Juan de Fuca and Perego’s Lake.

• Highlights:
  • Marine ecosystems and bluff-top views.
  • Uneven beach terrain and steep bluff climbs.
  • Spectacular vistas of the Salish Sea and surrounding landscapes.
• Trailheads & Distances:
  • From Ebey’s Landing State Park Trailhead: 3.5 miles (5.6 km) roundtrip.
  • From the Prairie Overlook Trailhead: 5.5 miles (8.9 km) roundtrip.
• Tips:
  • Be aware of tides and weather conditions when hiking along the beach.
  • A Discover Pass is required for parking at Ebey’s Landing State Park.

The Pratt Loop Trail

An easy walk that takes you through active farmland, the Pratt Loop Trail offers glimpses of native prairie flora, historic farm structures, and expansive views of the Salish Sea.

• Highlights:
  • Historic Jacob & Sarah Ebey House and surrounding heritage farm fields.
  • Views of the Salish Sea and native prairie plants.
• Trailheads & Distances:
  • From the Jacob & Sarah Ebey House: 0.3 miles (0.5 km) one-way.
  • From the Bluff Loop Trail connection: 0.8 miles (1.2 km) one-way.

Pratt Loop Trail & the Kettle Spur Trail

For those seeking an easy connection to a larger network of trails, this route passes through the Robert Pratt Preserve, managed by The Nature Conservancy, and connects to Island County’s Kettles Trail system. The Kettles Trail system provides over 30 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

• Highlights:
  • Peaceful prairies and forested areas.
  • Access to the expansive Kettles Trail network.
  • Connection to the Ebey’s Prairie Ridge Trail.
• Trailheads & Distances:
  • From the Prairie Overlook Trailhead: 1.3 miles (2.1 km) roundtrip.
  • The Kettle Spur Trail: 0.75 miles (1.2 km) one-way.

Trail Etiquette & Safety Tips

• Pets: Keep your pets on a leash to protect wildlife and fellow hikers.
• Preparation: Bring plenty of water and dress for changing weather conditions.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you bring in, as there are no trash facilities at trailheads or along the trails.
• Trail Use: These trails are pedestrian-only. Bicyclists can enjoy trails within the Kettles Trail system.

Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve offers trails that connect you to the Reserve’s natural beauty and history while respecting its role as a working landscape. Happy hiking!

 

Explore the Reserve

• 

  Hike the Reserve

  The Bluff Loop Trail, the Pratt Loop Trail and more - There are a variety of hiking opportunities from easy to challenging.

• 

  Kayak the Reserve

  Ebey's Reserve is ideal for exploring by kayak - Penn Cove, Crockett Lake and the canals offer wildlife and birding - maybe a whale or two!

• 

  Explore the Kettles Trails

  The Kettles trails connect to Fort Ebey State Park and include over 30 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails.

• 

  Go Birding at Crockett Lake

  Calling all Birders! Crockett Lake is a major stopover for shorebirds during northbound (April/May), and southbound (July/Oct.) migrations.

• 

  Hike a National Scenic Trail

  The Pacific Northwest Trail may be the gnarliest through hike in the country, but you can hike a portion of it in a day at Fort Ebey.

• 

  Explore History

  The Reserve is rich in layers of cultural heritage and history.