13 Amazing Nature Walks & Hikes on Bainbridge Island
If you’re looking for a great way to explore Bainbridge Island, look no further!
We have put together the 13 best hikes on this incredible piece of land, so get ready to lace up your hiking shoes and dive into nature.
The trails we have selected range from easy and relaxed walks to strenuous climbs, enough to satisfy both experienced hikers and those who are just getting their feet wet in the outdoors.
So whether you’re hoping to fill an afternoon or a whole week of venturing into the wilds of Bainbridge Island, let this blog be your guide!
1. Cross Island Trail
For a truly unforgettable coast-to-coast experience on Bainbridge Island, make sure to tear yourself away from the Netflix shows and head over to the Cross Island Trail.
This 5-mile trail is your ticket to stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, Seattle Skyline, and Mount Rainier set against majestic wooded forests.
It’s almost picturesque enough to make you forget you’re actually hiking!
Venture forth and reap the rewards with old-growth trees, open meadows, and of course, amazing views along the way.
Best thing of all? You’ll be crossing from one side of Bainbridge Island to the other!
2. Grand Forest
Not only is the Grand Forest home to a beautiful and expansive network of hiking trails, but due to recent additions, there’s even more to tackle!
Even better, the trails range in elevation gain, so you can get your heart rate going if you’re feeling adventurous.
Get ready to gaze upon some old-growth Cedar and Douglas Fir trees along the way too.
So pack your backpack with plenty of water and snacks and start charting your course – just make sure to bring a printed map so you don’t end up in never-never land!
3. Fay Bainbridge
Fay Bainbridge Park is the perfect option if you want to enjoy nature without participating in a grueling hike.
This peaceful walk on the beach lets you take in the sweeping views of Seattle’s skyline to majestic Mount Rainier and Mount Baker on a clear day.
There’s also a wooden boardwalk that accommodates wheelchairs so everyone can get close enough to appreciate the sights.
Enjoy a day spent picnicking, playing beach volleyball, horseshoes and more.
Of course, if sleeping under the stars is more your style, there are dedicated tent and RV campsites available throughout the park.
4. Gazzam Lake Nature Preserve
Gazzam Lake Park and Wildlife Preserve is a place of beautiful variety! The 440+ acres of untamed forests and wetlands provide a stunning backdrop for hikers to explore a range of sights.
Best of all, you can vary the intensity of your outing – those looking for a leisurely stroll could go just one-mile roundtrip to the lake, while more serious hikers could climb an elevation gain of up to 500 feet.
Explore the many trails on Bainbridge Island, ranging from the short and sweet, to those with legs for days.
Get out there today and have yourself a much-needed nature fix!
5. Red Pine Park
Need a relaxing moment in your day? Go through the imposing Japanese torii, an ancient ornamental gateway, into Red Pine Park and enjoy a calming break.
Stroll among the luscious flower beds, perfectly trimmed lawns and oodles of heirloom fruit trees to take in all the captivating aromas.
Noteworthy shrubbery like rhododendrons, heather and Japanese maples dot the landscape while you marvel at the heady scent of red pines.
Big on tranquility but small enough so that it’s almost a secret getaway, Red Pine Park is conveniently beside the Harbor Public House – why not sample their amazing selection of brews after your visit?
6. Bloedel Reserve Loop
Take a leisurely stroll through paradise – Bloedel Reserve sprawls across 150 acres and boasts impressive gardens and lush landscape.
It’ll take about 30 minutes to complete the 1.6-mile loop – but why rush? Soak in all of its splendor as you wander past gardens like the Bird Marsh, Japanese Garden and Moss Garden.
Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop before leaving – they have a great selection of books and unique souvenirs that celebrate nature’s beauty.
7. Pritchard Park
If you haven’t had the pleasure of visiting Pritchard Park on Bainbridge Island, then get ready for some serious relaxation.
Not only does this 50-acre park offer a tranquil setting, with nearly a mile of shoreline and upland forest views, but it also provides stunning vistas facing Eagle Harbor and the ever-busy downtown Seattle skyline.
In short, it’s one heck of a picture-perfect backdrop!
Plus, don’t forget to visit the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial before heading out.
Winding pathways feature powerful quotes and stories that recall historical events. Don’t miss out on this important yet oft-overlooked memorial.
8. Manzanita Park Loop
It’s easy to escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Manzanita Park Loop – 1.2 miles with no one in sight!
With a trail suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, you’ll want to check it out no matter the season.
The forested hillside is rustic and looks gorgeous in the spring with ferns, Douglas Firs, and wildflowers dotting the path.
If you decide to bring your pup along, just make sure they stay on a leash.
9. Meigs Park
Meigs Park is the perfect place to commune with nature – you’ll find 97 acres full of wetlands, bogs, and old-growth spruce trees – but you won’t find an abundance of people!
If you make it past the meadow and onto the trails, you’re likely to see ruins of old farm buildings, a tranquil pond or two, and once-hidden secrets in the vast wetland.
10. Blakely Harbor Park Loop
Take a stroll through Blakely Harbor Park on the easy 0.7-mile loop trail. The views from the bridge are stunning, and there’s a sandy beach on either side if you’re looking to take a break for a picnic.
This is definitely a trail the whole family can enjoy.
11. Fort Ward Hill Trail Loop
Whether you’re looking for a dose of history or a peaceful nature walk with fresh sea air in your lungs, the Fort Ward Hill Trail Loop will tickle your fancy.
Explore the ruins of 20th-century historic military structures, wander along the beach, and watch sea lions lounging about.
And at just 2.5 miles, it’s the perfect distance for a leisurely stroll.
12. Battle Point Trail
Battle Point is an old naval radio station that has been turned into a beautiful 90-acre park.
It’s a great place to take the family for a day out – there’s plenty of open space to run around in, and the 1.6-mile loop trail is a beautiful walk.
You’re likely to see lots of ducks and geese around the water, and in the summer it can be pretty hot, so make sure you bring sunscreen!
13. Waterfront Trail
Up for a waterfront sightseeing stroll? Lace up your walking shoes, grab your hat and a bottle of sunscreen, and get ready to explore the historic Waterfront Trail.
Two engaging trails await your arrival – each providing a unique view of the incredible harbor landscape and its inhabitants.
Taking the 2-mile western loop stroll around Eagle Harbor doesn’t just give you fantastic views of the bay, but it also provides a journey through time.
Glance back in history at the Hall Brothers Shipyard, Eagle Harbor Congregational Church, and even the site of an old Strawberry Cannery.
Then take a little detour onto the 1.5-mile eastern loop, through a quiet neighborhood and then along Hawley Cove beach.
