Craft Island � Skagit Bay Estuary
Elevation: 80 feet
Hiking Distance: Under a mile to the island
Elevation Gain: None to the island, 80 feet to the top
Access: Any vehicle
There are so many reasons to visit this unique location. The remote beach on the backside of the island is probably the first. It is a strange experience walking through swampy marshlands to reach a rocky outcrop, only to traverse around the small island to find an expansive sandy beach on the other side. Hiking up to the top of the rock from the far side is open and easy. At the top, the view is spectacular and feels more like New Zealand or Iceland. In summer, people come to this beach to play all day, getting away from any crowds at easier to access beaches elsewhere.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife have a trailhead at the end of Rawlins Road, which turns off Fir Island Road. So that is the Conway Exit off I-5, then follow Fir Island Road to Rawlins Road. The parking is just off the side of the road adjacent to it along one side only.
Access:
WillhiteWeb.com
Trailhead sign
There is a large trail to the left when you reach the sign that tempts everyone to follow it, do not. Look for a minor hiking trail going right behind the sign, that drops down and then goes straight. You will likely want mud boots, the trail is very muddy in places and depending on the tide, you could encounter anything.
Route:
Craft Island on left, Ika Island on right
Getting closer to Craft Island
Sandy beach on the back side of Craft Island
Skagit River
Skagit and Ika Island looking toward LaConner
Short trail on Craft Island to get to the back side
The back side of the island is open and easy to hike to the top
Puget Sound
Exploring other parts of the estuary
The benchmark on top of the island says Delta Rock
The trail route to Craft Island but wear mud boots