2021 First Day Event
The First Day Hike has long been a tradition at Deception Pass State Park and is a great way to start the New Year outdoors. This year, we would like to continue the tradition while providing a fun and safe opportunity for all. We have come up with a variety of fun self-guided adventures to help you explore. Find whichever adventure fits best for you and come out to Deception Pass State Park on January 1st to enjoy the outdoors!
To participate in one of our January 1st adventures, stop by the East Cranberry Lake Parking Area (first left after the main entrance) to pick up your materials anytime between 10am and 2pm. As you explore the park, consider joining us for our first ever First Day event photo contest! Post a picture of you or your group having fun completing your adventure on Facebook and include the hashtag #HikingDeception2021 to be entered into the contest. Participants will have 3 days to upload their pictures before a winner is randomly drawn to win. The photo below of the Deception Pass Bridge from North Beach Trails was taken by Jack Hartt.
Where: East Cranberry Lake Parking Area
When: 10am-2pm
Junior Ranger Program
Join us on January 1st to complete our brand-new Deception Pass Junior Ranger Booklet and earn a badge! Designed for youth 4 and up, this booklet is full of fun activities designed to help you learn while you explore.
Mystery Mammal Hunt
Put on your thinking caps and come participate in the Deception Pass Mystery Mammal Hunt! Through riddles, this scavenger hunt will take you to different locations within the Cranberry Lake and West Beach area to discover which mammal is lurking around. We are offering both easy and difficult options.
Self-guided Interpretive Trails
Come discover some of the park’s amazing natural features by walking one of our two self-guided interpretive trails. Explore unique dunes and wetlands on the Sand Dunes Interpretive Trail or surround yourself with trees on the Upland Forest Trail. Stop by Cranberry Lake parking lot for more information.
Virtual Interpretive Hike
Join us from the comfort of your couch on January 1st for a virtual hike exploring the past of Cranberry Lake. We will take a journey back in time to see how the history of Cranberry Lake has shaped the park today. You can find the video on Washington State Park’s YouTube channel.
All Hikes
Everyone is also welcomed to simply come to Deception Pass State Park on January 1st and hike their favorite trail within the park. Stop by Cranberry Lake parking lot to ask volunteers about their favorite trails!
Before coming to the park on January 1st, with your family or small group, please refer to the recommended COVID Safety Guidelines to ensure a fun and safe day. The most updated guidelines can be found online at https://coronavirus.wa.gov/
For any questions or further information on the event, contact Elizabeth Bentz by email at Elizabeth.bentz@parks.wa.gov or by phone at (360) 675-3767 ext. 231
