Heartfelt Hikes in Island County

Great blue herons at Crockett Lake Preserve by Jennifer Holmes.

Have you run out of ideas for how to spend Valentine’s Day? Why not let Mother Nature provide some answers? This February 14^th, consider squeezing some nature into your Valentine’s Day celebration! Here’s a list of some Land Trust protected properties we think are especially perfect for a heartfelt hike:

Beach View Farm – Hike along the historic Beach View Farm (aka Fakkema Farm) on Northern Whidbey Island. Experience the beauty of this working farm and the surrounding area views of Swan Lake. If you’re up for it, head across the street to the Morgan Tidelands at West Beach for a lovely sunset view.

Picnic at Glendale Beach Preserve.

Glendale Beach Preserve – Looking for dinner plans? Escape the crowded restaurants, pack a picnic and enjoy a quiet dinner at one of our picnic tables while watching the ferries go by in Possession Sound.

Crockett Lake Preserve – A perfect spot for any bird lover, with beautiful sunset views. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, who stay with their mate for life.

Trillium Community Forest – A quiet forest hike – wander through a forest lined with ferns and soaring stands of Douglas fir trees. Enjoy the scenery and stillness this land has to offer. There are three trailheads, all with different difficulty levels.

Possession Sound Preserve – Stroll hand in hand along the beach where you can search for heart shaped rocks, watch for orcas, and take in the view as the ferries go by.

Beach walk at Barnum Point County Park by Janett Wingett.

Barnum Point County Park – With two and a half miles of trails through mature coastal forest and a mile of unspoiled beach, a romantic walk at Barnum Point County Park might be just what your Valentine needs. This property was protected by the Whidbey Camano Land Trust and is now fully owned and maintained by Island County Parks.

Del Fairfax Preserve – Quiet and secluded, Dr. George Fairfax donated this 50-acre property in memory of his late wife Del, who loved the property.

Be sure to check out all the hiking options here and pick the one that is suited best for your ability level.