Our pups have always loved hiking, so we’ve searched for trails in our area of Western Washington that we can enjoy with them in their later years. I’ve compiled a list of hikes that we like and would recommend to others with senior dogs. Of course, every dog is different so do your research and adjust your plans as needed. The list is separated by geographical region. To view all the hikes, as well as additional tips, the best place to start is on the introductory page: Hiking with Senior Dogs in Western Washington.
And don’t forget, for everyone’s safety and enjoyment of the trails, make sure you keep your pup on leash and pick up after them!
Two of my favorite hikes are located on the connected (by scenic Deception Pass Bridge) Whidbey and Fidalgo islands, which is a relatively short drive and ferry ride away from where I live. Last year we celebrated Chops’ 16th birthday by making a weekend of it. We stayed at an incredible Airbnb with a fully fenced yard and even a dog door!
The large fenced yard of our Airbnb rental was a great place for Chops to explore
Chops loved being able to come and go as she pleased. When we weren’t out hiking, she enjoyed standing on the deck, watching the world go by. Scenic Heights Trailhead Park is a short walk away and offers a nice casual stroll through a preserve surrounded by native plants and lots of bird activity. The rental was a bit expensive for just the three of us, but it was worth it to celebrate her Sweet 16! Make sure you visit Chris’ Bakery in Oak Harbor for a sweet treat!
Ebey's Landing beach walk
Ebey’s Landing (Whidbey Island) – If you go on a clear day, you’re in for a real treat because the views from this trail are incredible! But don't worry, the trail is great even on cloudy days. When our pups were younger, we would hike the entire trail, which is a loop that encompasses a bluff trail as well as a beach walk. Once the girls got older, they were no longer able to safely hike the section connecting the bluff and the beach (on the west side) to do a full loop, so now we just hike one or the other.
Flat walk from upper parking area to bluffs trail
There are separate parking areas for each trail section. Of the two trails, we prefer the bluffs (Prairie Overlook Trail) for a few reasons. The views are exceptional the higher you are, the bluffs tend to be less crowded than the beach (and the bluffs parking is also less crowded), and you don’t need to worry about timing your hike with the tide. Plus, the restrooms at the bluff parking area are the nicest pit toilets I have ever seen! The walk from the parking area (near the Sunnyside Cemetery) to the bluffs is flat. There is a bit of a hill you need to climb to get to the top of the bluff, but then you’re walking a fairly flat trail along the top.
Bluffs Trail is mostly flat, though narrow in some places, and offers exceptional views
The trail is narrow in some places, so it might be unsafe for dogs with severe mobility challenges. If all else fails, enjoy the walk from the parking area to the bluff area (flat and safe) and then decide if the trail is safe for your pup. You can go as far as you like and then return the way you came. You can access the beach via this trail as well; just go down (left) to the beach rather than up (right) to the cliff.
If you know you want to only do the beach, it’s best to park off Ebey’s Landing Road. No matter which route you take, you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful views of the mountains, fields and water, and breathe in some fresh sea air. Check out the WTA website for directions, detailed trail information and trip reports. A Discover Pass is required.
Washington Park is bathed in rich colors and textures and showcases stunning views of the water and mountains
Washington Park (Fidalgo Island) – While we’ve hiked Ebey’s Landing numerous times, Washington Park is much farther from our house, so we’ve only been there once. There’s a network of trails, which can be a bit confusing. Be sure to take a map and/or GPS. We made a large loop (2.8 miles) that took us about 2 hours (including picnic time) and gained 253 feet in elevation. From the parking lot, we went clockwise, starting with Route 501, then 516, and ending with routes 522 and 524 to get back to the parking lot.
Our route began in the woods
This path wove us through beautiful dense forest and popped out along the cliff with spectacular views of the water. Some sections were a bit rocky, and Chops can get clumsy when she’s excited, so I did carry her in a few sections. But overall, the path is clear and not too steep. And the views are amazing!
Since Chops is a bit unsteady on her feet, I carried her over some of the rockier sections
There are camping facilities in the park if you want to stay overnight. You’ll find a nice restroom in the parking area near Route 524. For more information on Washington Park, check out the City of Anacortes park site or look for trip reports and other details on the WTA site.
The Goose Rock Trail offers a phenomenal view of the Deception Pass Bridge
Goose Rock (Whidbey Island) – While many senior dogs won’t be able to make it to the top of Goose Rock, the highest point on Whidbey Island, since the upper section is quite steep, there is no reason not to hike a portion of this trail where wildlife and gorgeous scenery abound. The views are spectacular, and you can enjoy time walking through the woods and/or strolling the beach. Just go as far as you’re comfortable and then turn around. Depending on how far you want to go, this trail does take you to the underside of the Deception Pass Bridge, which is a fascinating perspective! Learn more and read trip reports on the WTA site.
The wooded trail offers frequent glimpses of the water below
The views of the beach get better and better the higher you go. This photo was taken just before reaching the underside of the bridge.
Though the trail continues beyond the underside of the bridge, we decided to make this our turn-around spot since we were already pushing Chops' abilities a bit.
Fort Casey (Whidbey Island) – If you are taking the Coupeville-Port Townsend Ferry and have time before or after your ride, Fort Casey is close by and offers a stroll with pretty cool history and views. Wander among the bunkers and other historical military features or head to the bluff for a stroll away from the crowds. A Discover Pass is required. Visit the Washington State Parks or the WTA websites for more information.
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