 In and beyond the city limits lie over 3,000 acres of parks and community forest lands, five freshwater lakes, and hiking trails, much of which has been set aside through resident donations for permanent conservation.
In addition, Washington Park, a 220-acre gem facing Rosario Strait, includes a full-service campground, boat launch, picnic shelters, and loop road for walking, biking, or driving, plus a playground and beaches.
In the middle of Fidalgo, Mount Erie Park rises some 1,300 feet, offering spectacular views of the San Juan islands and Skagit Valley. And the much-photographed Deception Pass Bridge with its dramatic views and beaches is just minutes away on Fidalgo's south end.
Numerous community groups offer hikes, maintain trails, and explore and protect the area's rich flora and fauna.
In addition to its abundant forests, many people are drawn to Fidalgo by its water—within sight at just about every turn. In addition to numerous freshwater ponds, Fidalgo is surrounded by salt water bays, straits, inlets, and channels.
Simply sit by the shore and listen to the slosh of waves, venture seaward to explore a tide pool, or admire the boats in a marina or at the working port facilities.
 For more activity, stroll across the bay on the Tommy Thompson Trail, a former railroad trestle; row with the Old Anacortes Rowing and Sailing Society (OARS) in handsome, five-person wooden boats; kayak miles of shoreline; or motor out to drop a crab trap (don't forget to get a license, first!). Finally, some half dozen marinas house every manner and size of sailing and motor craft as well as stalwart working fishing boats. You needn't go far for adventure with the San Juan Islands, Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Inland Passage to Canada and Alaska at your doorstep.
With weather that's never too hot and never too cold, Fidalgo's outdoors beckons all year 'round. |
