The best walks and hikes in Burrows Island Marine State Park
4.8
(29)
612
hikers
50
hikes
Hikes in Burrows Island Marine State Park and the surrounding area offer a mix of coastal and forest experiences. The park itself is an island accessible by boat, characterized by a rugged shoreline and a wooded interior with limited footpaths. The majority of established hiking trails for this region are located on the nearby mainland in areas like Washington Park and the Anacortes Community Forest Lands, featuring routes around lakes and through forests with views over the Salish Sea.
Best…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
4.7
(3)
38
hikers
4.33km
01:11
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
31
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5
hikers
4.12km
01:05
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
4.00km
01:06
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
6.29km
01:40
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Cranberry Lake, a place of unrivaled beauty, beckons all who seek an easy, scenic trail with enticing swimming spots along the way. Cyclists find solace here, pedaling through the peaceful forest, relishing the lakeside views, and savoring the gentle to moderate challenges it offers.
1
0
Cranberry Lake, a place of unrivaled beauty, beckons all who seek an easy, scenic trail with enticing swimming spots along the way. Cyclists find solace here, pedaling through the peaceful forest, relishing the lakeside views, and savoring the gentle to moderate challenges it offers.
0
0
Orcas Island, a haven of enchantment. Vast wilderness, emerald lakes, and a flourishing artisanal community. It cradles you in its magic, a quintessential gem of Washington state.
0
0
Burrows Bay, a tranquil inlet near Washington's Fidalgo Island, holds a rich history. Charted by explorers with evolving names, it shares tales of European footsteps and the echoes of its maritime past.
0
0
Cranberry Lake, a true beauty, beckons. This trail, an easy and serene route, reveals inviting swimming holes. A cherished spot for birding, hiking, and running, it harbors quiet moments amidst nature's embrace. Optimal visits span from March through October, with leashed canine companions also welcomed.
0
0
Burrows Bay, a tranquil inlet near Washington's Fidalgo Island, holds a rich history. Charted by explorers with evolving names, it shares tales of European footsteps and the echoes of its maritime past.
0
0
Orcas Island, a haven of enchantment. Vast wilderness, emerald lakes, and a flourishing artisanal community. It cradles you in its magic, a quintessential gem of Washington state.
0
0
Burrows Bay, a tranquil inlet near Washington's Fidalgo Island, holds a rich history. Charted by explorers with evolving names, it shares tales of European footsteps and the echoes of its maritime past.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any official hiking trails on Burrows Island?
No, Burrows Island Marine State Park does not have an established network of official hiking trails. It is primarily a destination for boaters and kayakers, with a primitive campsite at Alice Bight. The hiking routes featured in this guide are located on the nearby mainland in places like Washington Park and the Anacortes Community Forest Lands.
How do you get to Burrows Island Marine State Park?
The park is an island and is only accessible by private boat or human-powered watercraft like kayaks and canoes. There is no public ferry service. A popular launch point for paddlers is from the mainland in Anacortes.
Can you hike to the Burrows Island lighthouse?
Access to the historic Burrows Island lighthouse is very limited. The island is only reachable by boat, and there is no official, maintained trail leading to the lighthouse from the main visitor areas. Any paths are informal, and visitors are asked to avoid hiking away from the campsite to protect the natural habitat.
Where are the best places for hiking near Burrows Island?
The best hiking is found on the mainland near Anacortes. The Washington Park loop offers fantastic coastal views. For woodland and lake scenery, the Cranberry Lake Park loop is a great choice. Both are part of the highly-regarded Anacortes Community Forest Lands.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
Yes, the mainland offers several easy walks. The Guemes Channel Trail is a relatively flat and accessible path perfect for a relaxed stroll with views of the water. Another excellent option is the Rosario Head Trailhead in nearby Deception Pass State Park, known for its gentle paths and beautiful scenery.
Are dogs allowed on the trails?
While Burrows Island itself is not suitable for hiking with dogs, many mainland trails are dog-friendly. The extensive network within the Anacortes Community Forest Lands, including the popular Heart Lake & Little Round Top loop, generally permits dogs on a leash. Always check specific park regulations before you go.
Can you camp in Burrows Island Marine State Park?
Yes, there is a primitive campsite at Alice Bight on the northeastern side of the island. This campsite is part of the Cascadia Marine Trail and is exclusively for visitors arriving by human-powered watercraft, such as kayaks.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this region?
The hiking routes in the greater Burrows Island area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, well-maintained mainland trails, and the mix of forest and shoreline scenery.
How many hiking trails are available in the Burrows Island area?
There are over 40 hiking routes to explore in the area surrounding Burrows Island, primarily on the mainland. These range from easy coastal walks to more moderate forest hikes, offering plenty of options for different fitness levels.
What is the elevation of the summit on Burrows Island?
The summit of Burrows Island rises nearly 650 feet (about 200 meters) above the surrounding water. However, there are no official trails to the top, and hiking is discouraged to preserve the island's natural state.
Where can I find more information about the park's status?
For official information on the park's history, conservation efforts, and regulations, you can refer to the Washington State Parks website. They provide details on the island's unique environment and heritage. You can read more at the Washington State Parks field guide blog.
Most popular routes in Burrows Island Marine State Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
