Chops, Shiloh and me enjoying the beach at Ebey’s Landing on a cloudy day
If you go to Ebey’s Landing (Whidbey Island) 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.
Read about other hikes for senior dogs in Western Washington!
Hiking with Senior Dogs in Western Washington
