Camping and Hiking on Bainbridge Island by Bike

When Daniel Penner sent us his video of a February bike camping adventure from central Seattle to Bainbridge Island, we knew we wanted to share it with you. From views of a distant Mount Rainier to closeups of some of the small wonders found in suburban wilderness, you can't help but want to get outside when you watch this. And as Penner and his buddies show you, you can do this adventure by bike, even in the colder, wetter months.

Camping at Fay Bainbridge Park

The Fay Bainbridge Park is a small camping park (and former State Park) on the northwest corner of the island with 1,420 feet of saltwater shoreline. On clear days, Mount Rainier and Mount Baker are visible from a sandy beach.The park has 10 tent sites, 26 utility sites and (in the summer months) two restroom facilities, one with showers.

All camping is first-come, first-served, so make sure to have a back-up plan if you decide to make the journey by bike, especially on weekends or in summer months.

> More information about camping at Fay Bainbridge Park

Hike Gazzam Lake and Close Beach via ferry and bike

Whether you try to stay the night on the island or not, this little hike is just the right length after a 5-mile bike trip from the Bainbridge Ferry terminal.

Pack a picnic to eat on the cedar and maple-lined shores of Gazzam Lake or the secluded sands of Close Beach on this sweet 3.4 mile hike on the southwestern corner of the island. Watch for birds as you hike through this preserve managed by Bainbridge Island Parks Department.

Remember to leave yourself enough time to bike back to the ferry on tired legs at the end of your hike.

> Hike Gazzam Lake and Close Beach

Of Fay Bainbridge from Daniel Penner on Vimeo.

Share your car-free hiking, camping and backpacking adventures

Have you done a favorite hike using transit or your bicycle? Tell us about it in a Trip Report or in the comments below.