The entire world, and especially the tourism industry which is so important to Bainbridge Island’s economy, is struggling in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s hard to talk about things to do and places to go as if times were normal, and that includes making trips to Bainbridge Island parks and trails. Washington State is currently on a stay at home order until at least May 4, but an extension looks likely.

Though we are still required to stay home to keep our homes and communities safe, Governor Inslee did announce that Washington State Parks and public lands would reopen to the public starting May 5th. We’re grateful for the ability to get out to our Bainbridge Island parks and trails again, and we thought we’d take some time to share some of our favorites with you.

We also think that, in the face of the extensive social isolation we’ve all been facing in recent months, it’s important to look forward and plan in some special trips and “you” time.  When it’s safe to do so, Bainbridge Island will still be here ready, and waiting to welcome you back as we have before. Many of our parks and trails, which really are one of the best parts of Bainbridge Island, can be enjoyed while keeping social distancing guidelines in mind, too.

When you do find your way to Bainbridge Island later this year, we hope you’ll stop and stay for a while, staying at one of our incredible lodging properties.  Browse through our collection of properties, and give yourself permission to start dreaming.

8 Bainbridge Island Parks & Trails to Explore

Bainbridge Island is an incredible place to live, to work, and to visit. There is a reason it’s become such a popular day-trip from the Seattle area, and part of that reason is the island’s verdant beauty.  While the island’s population is concentrated in the downtown Winslow core, much of the island is dedicated to preserved green space in the form of parks and trails.  It’s easy to get out into nature when visiting, too, even if you don’t have a car.

Here are a few of our favorite Bainbridge Island Parks and Trails.

1. The Waterfront Trail, as the name suggests, meaders along the picturesque shores of Eagle Harbor. Walking along the trail is not only beautiful. It offers glimpses into island history and its unique wildlife habitat. The western portion of the trail makes a 2-mile loop, while the eastern portion of the trail makes a 1.5-mile loop.
2. One of the most popular trail networks on the island is the Grand Forest.  The Grand Forest includes an eastern and western portion as well, which both connect via the Hilltop Trail. In total, the Grand Forest offers 8 miles of trails that meander through beautiful lush forests of fir, cedar, and maple trees.
3. Battle Point Park is the biggest park on Bainbridge Island and loved by walkers and joggers for its 3-mile loop around this scenic park.  There’s also a pond and gazebo, a disc golf course, sports fields, and a playground. You can even connect up to the trails in the Grand Forest via the Forest to Sky Trail.
4. Fort Ward Park, located on the south end of the island, is also a scenic place to talk a walk while also getting a glimpse at the Island’s history. Fort Ward offers walkers the chance to walk along the coast or through the wooded portions of the upper trails. There are structures throughout the park that reflect the area’s military significance.
5. Fay Bainbridge is one of the most popular beach parks on the island. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views of Puget Sound, the Cascade Mountains, and even sometimes Mt. Rainier and Mt. Baker.  It’s a truly spectacular place, with plenty of sandy beach to walk on.
6. Also on the south end of the island is the Gazzam Lake Trail, which leads to the Gazzam Lake Nature Preserve. It’s the island’s second-largest area of undeveloped land, and it’s absolutely beautiful.
7. The Moritani Preserve is the newest Bainbridge Island Park and is right in the heart of Winslow (the downtown area of Bainbridge).
8. Pritchard Park, a superfund site next to Bainbridge Island’s former creosote plant, is home to one of the nicest sandy beaches on the island. It’s also adjacent to the Japanese American Exclusion Memorial, which represents an important part of Bainbridge Island’s history.

Find Your Perfect Bainbridge Island Lodging

Of all of the incredible things to do on Bainbridge Island, we can think of nothing better than spending some time in nature.  We think you’ll fall in love with it here, too, which is why we encourage you to stay for more than a day.  Don’t miss your opportunity to explore Bainbridge Island with us this summer.  Browse our properties, and start planning for future getaways today.