Rugged coastal headlands, placid coves, tidal pools teeming with crusty critters, towering ancient evergreens, and breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains-Deception Pass State Park packs it in. And with waterfront campsites and easy access from Pugetopolis, it's easy to see why Deception Pass is Washington's most popular state park (over three million annual visitors). This hike samples the park's rugged northern headlands, delivering spectacular views of straits and bays and of Deception Pass itself, with its treacherous waters and majestic bridge.

With over 4000 acres and nearly 40 miles of trails, Deception Pass State Park offers far more than the small section this hike passes through. But what a section! From the CCC Interpretive Center you'll travel out and back to Rosario Head and then likewise for Lighthouse Point and Lottie Point. First, visit the CCC center to gain an appreciation of what FDR's Depression-era program did for our country. Hardworking corps were stationed right here at Deception Pass, transforming this corner of Washington into a prime state park. Trails, campgrounds, and sturdy structures throughout the park are all part of their legacy.

The trail for Rosario Head takes off west from the interpretive center. Under a canopy of stately firs and madronas, the well-built trail climbs 100 feet up a steep hillside flanking Bowman Bay. Pass a series of fine outlooks before slowly descending, reaching Sharpe Cove in 0.75 mile. Now, make the 0.3-mile loop around Rosario Head using caution: 50-foot cliffs on the west side drop straight to Rosario Strait. Savor views across salty waters to the San Juan Islands and the Olympic Mountains. Sunsets are spectacular. Retrace your steps to the interpretive center.

Continue hiking south, now, along the sandy beaches of Bowman Bay. Pass the boat launch and pier. A short steep climb of about 50 feet slows your momentum-a necessary detour around a rocky impasse. As the trail drops back to sea level, an unsigned trail takes off left for Pass Lake. Continue right, soon coming to another junction. The trail left heads 0.5 mile along Lottie Bay before climbing and looping around Lottie Point, providing outstanding views of the narrow channel separating Fildalgo from Whidbey Island: Deception Pass.

Return to the junction and head left via a tombolo (a spit connecting an island or offshore rock with the mainland, created by wave-carried sedimentation) to Lighthouse Point. Enter an old-growth Douglas-fir forest, and in about 0.25 mile come to an unsigned junction, the beginning and end of a 1-mile loop.

Head left to grassy bluffs that offer stunning views of Deception Pass. Carry on, climbing above a rocky cleft. Along the loop, several side trails lead to jaw-dropping viewpoints out to lonely Deception Island and a vast waterway. Back into thick timber, the trail descends, closing the loop. Return to your vehicle or continue exploring the park. Be sure to thank the CCC.