Standing on the Deception Pass Bridge is one of those moments where you realize photos just can't capture how incredible a place really is. The bridge connects Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island inside Deception Pass State Park, and the views are honestly breathtaking in every direction. The water below is this deep turquoise color, and when the tide is moving you can see the currents swirling through the pass. It's a little surreal looking down from the bridge -- you're about 180 feet above the water, and the cliffs, forest, and islands around you make it feel like something out of a movie. One thing I didn't realize until visiting is that it's actually two bridges, with a small island in between called Pass Island. You can walk across both bridges, and there are sidewalks on each side so you can stop and take in the views. It's definitely worth slowing down and just enjoying the moment. If you want to walk the bridge, most people park either at the small lot on the Whidbey Island side right before the bridge, or at pullouts and parking areas on the Fidalgo Island side. There are also bigger parking areas inside the park like Bowman Bay or West Beach if you want to explore trails or viewpoints nearby. Driving across the bridge itself is free, but if you park in the state park lots you'll need a Washington Discover Pass (about $10 for the day). If you can, try to go earlier in the morning or near sunset. The light hitting the water and cliffs makes the whole place feel even more magical. This is one of those places in Washington that really sticks with you. Whether you're walking the bridge, stopping for photos, or just watching the water rush through the pass below, it's absolutely worth the visit. read more

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Parking is very limited, cost $10 so you have to decide if it's worth for you to pay for it to simply walking across the bridge to enjoy the view or to hike down to the water. We weren't prepared nor planned to hike down when we visit in late August of 2025. It's definitely worthwhile for a quick stop, walk across the bridge and enjoy the view from there for a bit. It could be noisy since cars will be driving through while you stand still on the bridge. We spotted some seals or sea lions played in the water. We couldn't tell the difference from the bridge without the telescope. read more

Deception Pass Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Anacortes, Washington

Was a little late to get out and enjoy the full park as the sun had already set. The views and scenery here is always amazing and well worth the drive out when in the area. If you have a concern for heights you may want to bypass the bridge walk, but there are plenty of other trails and beaches to explore on this adventure! read more

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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. read more

Deception Pass Bridge - View from the bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Anacortes, Washington

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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! read more

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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. read more

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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. read more

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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) {| |} ---"--"--- read more

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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. read more

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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! read more

Deception Pass Bridge - Below - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Anacortes, Washington

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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. read more

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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 read more

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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. read more

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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! read more

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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!! read more

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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. read more

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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. read more

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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. read more

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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! read more

Deception Pass Bridge - Walking Along the Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Anacortes, Washington

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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. read more

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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! read more

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! read more

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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. read more

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

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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. read more

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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. read more

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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. read more

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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. read more

Deception Pass Bridge - Looking up at the bridge. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Anacortes, Washington

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. read more

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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. read more

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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! read more

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. read more

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Well worth the diversion! In reasoning to take the ferry to Whidbey Island and driving up to Vancouver, my main reason for doing this was to drive on the Deception Pass Bridge. I have seen some spectacular pictures of this bridge and wanted to see it for real. Since this bridge connects Whidbey to the mainland, you can drive up I-5 through Burlington to get here in addition to driving northward on Whidbey Island. It sure was a long drive to get here, but it was totally worth it. There were long stretches of one lane roads on Whidbey and this is the case when you are heading onto the bridge. There are a number of places to park near the bridge. One prior to leaving Oak Harbor as well as a small area right next to the bridge which has perhaps room for 2-3 cars. I missed the main parking area, but found the one right next to the bridge which fortunately was not full with cars. For safety purposes, the pedestrian sidewalks are roped off so you can not cross via the road. To cross to the other side, you need to take the stairs downward and around. It is easy to get a great shot here, even for the novice photographer. The photos I took on a cheapy Nikon camera are surprisingly good. If you are travelling in the Oak Harbor-Anacortes area, a picture at the Deception Pass Bridge is a must. It is one of those places that looks great on a postcard. read more

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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. read more

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. read more

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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. read more

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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! read more

Deception Pass Bridge - Deception pass bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Anacortes, Washington

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. read more

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. read more

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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. read more