The 645-acre Fort Ebey State Park has a little bit of everything.
Walk the beach, hike high above crashing waves, go surf fishing or get a history lesson.
The fort was built in 1942 as part of the coastal defense network for World War II.
At one time, it boasted gun batteries, observation stations, storage rooms and residences. All that remains today are the concrete gun batteries (the two six-inch guns were removed and sold for scrap years ago) and two observation bunkers.
If you plan to explore the gun batteries, bring a flashlight. The area takes darkness to a whole new level.
Distance: 3.5 miles
Destination: Loop trail
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 500 feet
Getting there: Highway 20 to Coupeville. Turn right on Libbey Road and follow the signs to Fort Ebey State Park.
The Trek: After entering the park, follow the signs to the beach. After taking in the shoreline and Admiralty Inlet, head north along the beach to find the trail.
The trail heads bluff-ward via switchbacks. They take hikers from the shoreline to the cliffs high above.
Go left at the first fork and proceed to Lake Pondilla. This freshwater haven is home to a thriving bass population.
At the next fork, stay left. This trail will pass a campsite specifically for bicyclists. Continue on. Return to the parking area to find the Bluff Trail, which leads to the gun batteries.
A solid incline leads to the top of the bluff. It’s about a mile to where the guns of Fort Ebey once kept constant vigil. The views from the small picnic area are great. Walking down a set of stairs leads to a long-abandoned observation bunker.
Walk back up the stairs, venture through the concrete structure and emerge at the second gun installation. Walking to the rear of Battery 248, two massive concrete entry points leading into the battery’s bowels can be seen.
Hike back to the front of the battery and pick up the trail for Point Partridge.
This sand trail hugs the bluff’s edge. It offers views from dizzying heights. Traffic on the inlet includes everything from freighters to pleasure crafts and sailboats. On a clear day, the snow-capped Olympic Mountains can be seen just across the water.
After ducking under several wind-tormented trees bent at obtuse angles, continue winding in and out of the coastal forest.
At a fork, proceed left on the Fort Ebey Loop Trail. The trail leads to a road. Hike up the pavement. In about a half-mile, reach Point Partridge.
Turn and retrace your steps. Pick up the Beach Trail. This trail heads around the backside of the campground before reaching the beach.
Numerous trails venture off in all directions. Simply pick a trail to meander upon. When finished, retrace your route to the rig.
Fort Ebey State Park / Bluff Trail
Vince Richardson
The Bluff Trail overlooks Admiralty Inlet.
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