Bainbridge Island Nature & Birding Itinerary

Map? Check. Boots? Check. Binoculars? Check. Now grab your hiking stick and prepare to explore.

1

Start out in the sun on the northeast end of the island. Fay Bainbridge Park offers a stretch of wild shoreline and a fresh salty breeze. Keep an eye out for eagles, ospreys and shorebirds, and be ready to hop over driftwood to get to the beach.

Nature & Birding Itinerary, Bainbridge Island, Fay Bainbridge Park
Fay Bainbridge State Park
2

Swing further south and to the west side of the island; look for the Grand Forest parking area and get set to hike. You’ll find big old growth trees and a seasonal stream—do the main loop at least and check out the side trails if you want to explore more.

Nature & Birding Itinerary, Bainbridge Island, Grand Forest Park Trails
Grand Forest Park Trail
3

If you head south toward Fort Ward Park, opt for the lower entrance, closer to the water. Watch for cormorants sunning themselves at the south end of the park; to the north you’ll see the Olympic Mountains on a good day.

Nature & Birding Itinerary, Bainbridge Island, Fort Ward Park
Fort Ward Park
4

When it’s finally time to head back into town, you’ll be comfortable in your khakis at the casual Harbour Public House. Dig into one of their specials and down a chilly, well-deserved local beer.

Birder bonus: add an extra stop at Schel-Chelb Estuary near Lynwood Center.

Nature & Birding Itinerary, Bainbridge Island, Harbour Public House
The Harbour Public House