One Of America's Most Beautiful Bridges Connects Two Islands In The Pacific Northwest

Don't be deceived by its ominous name. The Deception Pass Bridge is one of the most stunning bridges in America, connecting two enchanting islands in the Pacific Northwest. Spanning 1,500 feet between Fidalgo Island and Whidbey Island, the architectural marvel rivals tourist-trodden bridges like the Golden Gate — one of the most illustrious attractions on California's scenic coast — betraying sweeping views of the Puget Sound's clear-blue waters, forest-lined cliffs, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance.  

Situated over an hour north of Seattle, the wondrous bridge makes for a delightfully scenic day trip from the city, and the islands on each side are packed with both outdoor and small-town adventures. Crossable by car or foot, the two-lane bridge is a destination in itself and is traversed by approximately 20,000 cars a day. Erected in 1935, the bridge was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places in 1982 and is considered a marvel of both engineering and architectural beauty. If you're planning a visit to northern Washington, make it a point to pass over the Deception Pass Bridge.

To reach the Deception Pass Bridge from Seattle, hop on Interstate 5 and continue about 60 miles north to State Route 20 West, which will lead you directly to the south end of the bridge. The journey to the bridge promises a breathtaking drive lined with towering trees and scenic vistas, culminating in an awe-inspiring view of the iconic structure. Backdropped by the jewel-toned landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, the bridge's green-painted steel blends perfectly with its natural surroundings and is sure to inspire more than a few jaw-dropping moments.

When crossing the bridge, you have two options: drive across or walk across. If you have the time, you can delight in both. Driving across is pretty straightforward, but if you want to travel on foot, you'll have to find a place to park first. There are parking spots on either side of the bridge, with pull-out spaces on the Fidalgo Island side, and a parking lot with ample spaces on the Whidbey Island side. (Note: you must pay for a $10 day pass to park, unless you have a Washington Discover Pass handy). The bridge is lined with pedestrian walkways that grant panoramic views on each side, and on a clear day, you can see all the Olympic Mountains in the distance. To cross from one side to the other, you must take the stairs that pass beneath the bridge, which offers a unique vantage point of the structure itself, and a close-up view of the churning waters 180 feet below.

After you've finished your trek across the bridge, take some time to explore the sights on each side. On the south side, Whidbey Island is an underrated gem that promises parks, beaches, and seafood for an idyllic getaway. Pack a picnic and take in a view of the bridge from North Beach, or have lunch in Coupeville, one of Washington's oldest towns with serene island vibes and fresh seafood. There are plenty of hiking opportunities on this side as well, including the Cranberry Lake Trail, a picturesque 2.1-mile wooded trail that hugs the peaceful waters of Cranberry Lake.

On the Fidalgo Island side of the bridge, you can explore the trails around the beautiful Bowman Bay. Hike the Lighthouse Point and Lottie Point Beach Trail, a 2.5-mile loop with stunning views of the bridge from both points, particularly Lighthouse Point. For more of an urban hike, you can explore Anacortes on the island's northern end, Washington's gateway to the San Juan Islands, with eclectic shops, charming festivals, and whale-watching.