The Beauty of Bainbridge Island
Hike and Explore at Bainbridge Island
You know a place is special when locals head to it for their in-state vacations. Follow the lead of Seattleites and venture to beautiful Bainbridge Island in the heart of Puget Sound on the Kitsap Peninsula.
From Seattle, first-come, first-served Washington State Ferries run regularly from Pier 52, accommodating both walk-on and vehicle transportation to the island. (If you head there directly from Sea-Tac airport, you can take a shuttle to the nearby car rentals, and it’s about a fifteen-minute drive to the ferry dock for Bainbridge, depending on traffic.)
The roughly 35-minute trip crosses Puget Sound, so keep an eye out for whales, and enjoy the departing view of the Seattle Great Wheel on the city’s picturesque Pier 57.
Meet Pia: Stop and say hi to Bainbridge Island’s resident troll. Pia the Peacekeeper is an 18-foot-tall sculpture created from recycled wood by Danish artist Thomas Dambo.
Located in quiet Sakai Park, Pia makes a big impression, welcoming all, embracing the spirit of culture and community. Park in the small lot and follow the easy and short marked trail to Pia. She is waiting, ready to offer a big … troll hug! Embrace it. Find Pia.
The Grand Forest: Grand is not an overstatement for this network of enchanting trails connecting the West Grand Forest and the East Grand Forest. This mint-mossy forest is a green dream of trails frilled by ferns with a misty luster. Cross streams and bypass wetlands amid towering firs and cedars. The best trail for a lovely overview of the landscape is the “Main Loop” of the Grand Forest West Trail System (9752 Miller Road NE). Within 121 surrounding acres, the loop hike clocks in at 1.5 miles, and passes over the flowing Issei Creek via a photogenic bridge. If you want to explore more, there are hikes from West Grand Forest to East Grand Forest; or embark on the Forest to Sky Trail from West Grand Forest to Battle Point Park. Whatever you choose, it’ll be Grand. Info, Directions, and Maps.
Eat + Drink: Located in a historic ivy-covered building in the heart of Bainbridge’s charming downtown, Pegasus Coffee was named one of the “Best Independent Coffee Shops in the World” (Financial Times, 2022). This cozy spot also serves wine, beer, and hearty comfort foods: The menu features pastries, sandwiches, and soups.
Bring the Outdoors to Your Inbox
Sign up for our weekly email and stay up to date on where to explore in California.
* No spam, that's a funky food!
