5.0
(9847)
18,389
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Kiket Trail loop
00:57
3.31km
80m
Hiking
The Kiket Trail loop offers a delightful escape into a landscape rich with natural beauty and cultural significance. This easy 2.1-mile (3.3 km) hike, with a gentle 273 feet (83 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 57 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a quick, rewarding outing. You'll traverse a unique tombolo to Kiket Island, where trails wind through mixed forests of old-growth trees and Madronas, leading to scenic rocky beaches. Keep an eye out for bald eagles soaring overhead and harbor seals in the waters, all while enjoying expansive views of nearby islands and the Deception Pass Bridge.
Before you head out, be sure to check the tide charts for Turners Bay; high tides can submerge the tombolo, cutting off access to Kiket Island. Parking at the trailhead requires a Discover Pass. Please note that to preserve the delicate ecosystem, pets, bicycles, and horses are not permitted on the trails, and harvesting beach resources is restricted. There are restrooms and a picnic shelter available on the island, with a pit toilet at the trailhead.
What makes the Kukutali Preserve truly special is its co-management by the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community and Washington State Parks, a unique partnership in the U.S. The preserve's name, "Kukutali," means "place of the cattail mat," reflecting its historical use for clam digging and salmon fishing. Informative signs along the Kiket Island Natural Area trails provide insights into this rich natural and cultural history, adding depth to your hiking experience.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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1.78 km
Kukutali Preserve
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
3.31 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.84 km
462 m
Surfaces
2.10 km
932 m
241 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Sunday 23 August
20°C
12°C
27 %
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Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to hike the Kiket Trail loop?
Yes, a Discover Pass is required for parking at the trailhead. This pass supports Washington State Parks and other state recreation lands.
Where can I park to access the Kiket Trail loop?
Parking is available at the entrance to the Kukutali Preserve. Remember that a Discover Pass is needed for parking.
Are dogs allowed on the Kiket Trail loop?
No, dogs are not permitted on the trails within the Kukutali Preserve to protect the sensitive ecological and cultural environment.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trail can be enjoyed year-round, offering lush forests and marine views. However, it's crucial to check tide tables before your visit, as the tombolo connecting to Kiket Island can become submerged and impassable at high tide.
Is the Kiket Trail loop suitable for beginner hikers or families?
Yes, the overall difficulty is considered easy to moderate. The South Trail is particularly easy, and the North Trail is gentle enough for young hikers, making it a great option for families and beginners.
What is the terrain like on the Kiket Trail loop?
The terrain is varied. It begins with a graveled, relatively flat walk across a tombolo. Once on Kiket Island, you'll find gravel roadways (Kiket Trail), singletrack paths through forests (North Trail), and meandering routes through broad-leaved trees (South Trail). Some beach sections may have loose gravel and rock.
What natural features and viewpoints can I expect to see along the route?
You'll encounter lush forests with old-growth trees and madrona boughs, abundant ferns, and moss. Spectacular views include the iconic Deception Pass Bridge, Skagit, Hope, and Fidalgo Islands, and Similk Bay. The western end features windswept shorelines and fascinating driftwood.
Are there any special considerations for hiking the tombolo section of the trail?
Yes, the tombolo, a natural sand spit connecting the mainland to Kiket Island, can become submerged and impassable at high tide. Always plan your visit by checking the local tide charts to ensure safe passage.
Does this route connect with other trails on Kiket Island?
Yes, once on Kiket Island, the route utilizes sections of the North Trail, the main Kiket Trail (Center Trail), and the South Trail, forming a lollipop loop that allows you to explore different parts of the island.
What makes the Kukutali Preserve unique?
The Kukutali Preserve is unique as the first park in the U.S. to be co-owned and jointly managed by a federally recognized Indian tribe (Swinomish Indian Tribal Community) and a state government (Washington State Parks). This collaboration focuses on conservation, research, and honoring its rich cultural heritage.
What regulations should I be aware of when visiting the preserve?
To protect the environment, visitors must stay on designated trails. Dogs, bicycles, and horses are not permitted. Additionally, sensitive areas like Flagstaff Island and Kiket Island's north shore and lagoon are off-limits to public access.
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