Destination WhidbeyOak HarborPlacesWhidbey Island October 7, 2024

The Development of Deception Pass

Recognized for its breathtaking beauty and stunning engineering, the Deception Pass Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Washington State. Spanning the turbulent waters of Deception Pass and connecting Whidbey Island to Fidalgo Island.  The bridge has become a symbol of the Pacific Northwest’s natural and manmade wonders, drawing countless visitors each year.

Have you ever wondered how such an awe-inspiring structure was built, especially during the early 20th century? Its story is as impressive as the bridge itself. Keep reading to learn more about the development of Deception Pass.

A Vision Decades in the Making

The idea for the Deception Pass Bridge was first floated in the late 1800s. At the time, residents of Whidbey Island had limited access to the mainland, relying on boats and ferries to make the crossing. The concept of a bridge was considered revolutionary. At the time, too ambitious for the era. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that the dream started gaining traction.

Elizabeth Guss, shared an account of Captain George Morse telling his children his dream of one day having a bridge in her article, “History of Deception Pass” saying:

“This great achievement began with an idea from a New England seaman, Captain George Morse, who sailed through the narrow, turbulent waterway called Deception Pass and eventually settled in the tiny village of Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island. Pointing at the two promontories of Whidbey and Fidalgo in the 1880s, he told his children that “one day we will have a bridge across this pass with Pass Island as a center support.”” View the full article here.

After years of debate and several proposals, the wheels were finally set in motion in the 1930s. However, despite modern advancements, building such a massive structure across the deep and dangerous waters of Deception Pass posed a significant challenge.

Engineering a Marvel

When construction finally began in 1934, it took an extraordinary team to bring the vision to life. Under the direction of the Puget Construction Company of Seattle, approximately 200 workers were tasked with fabricating the two-span bridge. Despite the complex and dangerous working conditions, they managed to complete the project in under a year. This was a remarkable feat given the time period.

The engineering behind the bridge is just as impressive as its scenic views. The construction team used 460 tons of steel for the 511-foot Canoe Pass arch and 1130 tons for the 976-foot Deception Pass span, forming the skeleton of the now-famous double cantilever bridge. On July 31, 1935, these two massive sections were connected, linking Whidbey Island, Fidalgo Island, and Pass Island for the first time.

A Symbol of Strength

The Deception Pass Bridge is not only a marvel of engineering but also a symbol of community spirit and resilience. Built during the Great Depression, the bridge project provided jobs and hope to local workers during a time of widespread economic hardship. Today, the bridge stands tall as a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance.

A Must-See Destination

The Deception Pass Bridge has since become a major tourist destination. It is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Offering stunning vistas of Puget Sound, rugged cliffs, and emerald-green forests, it’s a photographer’s dream. Many travelers make the trip to walk across the bridge, explore the surrounding Deception Pass State Park, or even take a boat tour through the narrow, swirling waters below.

While the beauty of the bridge is often what draws people in, its rich history and impressive construction make it even more fascinating. So the next time you visit, take a moment to appreciate not only the magnificent views but also the years of effort and engineering brilliance that went into making the Deception Pass Bridge the awe-inspiring landmark it is today.

Discover the History for Yourself

If you haven’t visited this iconic Washington treasure yet, fall is a perfect time to take in the changing leaves and the peaceful serenity of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re planning a day trip or just want to learn more about local history, the Deception Pass Bridge is sure to leave you marveling at the combined beauty of nature and human achievement.

Ready to learn more about Whidbey Island, or perhaps ready to call Whidbey Island home? Connect with us.
Destination WhidbeyFreelandNeighborhoodsPlacesThings to Do on Whidbey June 28, 2021

Discover Double Bluff

Heading east on Highway 525 turn right onto Double Bluff Road. Follow this charming road to the end where a tiny parking lot, breathtaking views, and the most unique public beach on Whidbey Island awaits you.

You have made it to Double Bluff Beach. It is here you will find over 4.5 miles of flat sandy beach where you and your entire family (including your dogs) can enjoy breathtaking views for as far as your eyes can see and if it’s clear, a view of Mt. Ranier! This off-leash dog park got its name “Double Bluff” from the two large bluffs that are the main attraction for the park. Amongst the numerous features, you will find picnic areas, public restrooms, a doggie bag station, clam digging areas, showers to wash off the sand, a payphone, shallow water for wading that gets very warm in summer, and driftwood to lean against.

Grab a picnic lunch from Payless Foods just down the road in Freeland and spend a beautiful Pacific Northwest Day here! Be sure to arrive early, get a good spot, and don’t forget to pack the sunscreen! 

Check out the rest of Whidbey’s beautiful destinations from this series here.

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Places September 7, 2018

A Café in the Woods

A Café in the Woods

Literally tucked back in the woods of Langley at the end of a long and winding road is a little place you may not have heard of but is totally worth a visit! Mukilteo Coffee Roasters “Café in the Woods” is home to the “perfect cup of coffee”. If you are a coffee (and food) lover, this little café is a must visit!

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A post shared by Mukilteo Coffee Roasters (@mukilteocoffee) on Aug 31, 2018 at 9:25am PDT

The café prides itself on the use of organic ingredients for all the items found on their menu, and coffee beans bought directly from the growers in Costa Rica. You will be delighted with the smell of freshly roasted coffee wafting in from the roasting room, and food cooked with fresh ingredients brought in by local farmers every day. Their café menu changes seasonally to keep the ingredients as fresh and local as possible, which makes it a great opportunity to try something new!

What Makes Them Unique:

The owners, Gary, and Beth Smith, at Mukilteo Coffee Roasters had a goal to “create the perfect cup of coffee” and many seem to agree that they have done just that! What makes them so unique is that they traveled to Costa Rica to meet the growers and taste the coffee before choosing which coffee they would use.  Now their growers, a small family farm in Costa Rica, are considered part of the family and Gary and Beth visit frequently to experience the farm first hand. The café moved to its current location in 2003 and has been thriving ever since. Not only is their little café in Langley a huge success, Mukilteo coffees are shipped to consumers everywhere and served around the globe!

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A post shared by Mukilteo Coffee Roasters (@mukilteocoffee) on Aug 25, 2018 at 2:38pm PDT

The Café is open for breakfast and lunch from 8 am to 4 pm Monday through Saturday. You can visit their website [ https://mukilteocoffee.com/ ] to take a peek at their most current menu or order a bag of slow roasted coffee to brew right at home. We are sure your visit to the café will have you coming back for more!

Have you visited the Café in the Woods? Tell us all about your experience in the comments below!

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PlacesUncategorized August 14, 2018

Summer Time Sweet Treats

Summer Time Sweet Treats

What do you do to keep cool in these hot summer months? One of our favorite things is to head out for a cold and sweet treat! Thankfully, Whidbey is home to some amazing places for just that!

  1. KAPAWS Iskreme – 21 Front St NE, Coupeville

One of Whidbey Island’s best-kept secrets, KAPAWS is a favorite stop for some amazing ice cream and quaint small-town atmosphere. We highly recommend grabbing one of their fresh waffle cones that you can smell a mile away. The best part is their $1 kid cones – for kids only! Open 7 days a week from 11 am to 5:30 pm, KAPAWS offers friendly service, generous portions, and reasonable prices that won’t disappoint!

  1. Ciao – 701 Main St N, Coupeville

You may be surprised to learn that Ciao isn’t just about the amazing pizza. Every day, gelato is made in-house from a recipe created in the 1700’s! Made from milk rather than cream gelato sports a velvety texture that will make your taste buds dance. Stop by Monday through Saturday 11am-8pm to try out one of their many flavors. We especially love their Affogato, which is gelato floated in espresso! Yum!

  1. K&R Farms “The Stand” – 36699 SR 20, Oak Harbor

A post shared by @accioaimara on May 5, 2018 at 4:19pm PDT

If you’ve ever driven toward Anacortes, you probably noticed the farm stand on highway 20. K&R Farm’s “The Stand” is a favorite stop for local produce, fresh beef, ice cream, and many other tasty delights. Recently, The Stand started serving Hawaiian shaved Ice and it has been a big hit! Hawaiian shaved ice differs from your run of the mill snow cone because of the soft snow-like texture that absorbs all the flavor of the syrup and makes for a refreshing treat! You can visit the stand 7 days a week from 11 am to 6 pm.

 

  1. Toppins – 32650 SR 20 A101, Oak Harbor

“Frozen yogurt your way” is our favorite way to describe Toppins. With 12 different frozen yogurt flavors and 80+ topping choices, all self-serve, you can create your own dessert masterpiece. What’s even better is that it doesn’t stop there! Toppins also offer’s floats made with your frozen yogurt flavor choice. We really enjoy their pineapple float with its refreshing flavor that is perfect for summer. You can stop by for your cool off treat from 11 am to 10 pm Monday through Saturday and 11 am to 9 pm on Sunday.

  1. Café de Lisio – 957 Ault Field Rd, Oak Harbor

A post shared by Cafe De Lisio (@cafedelisio) on Jul 13, 2018 at 8:00am PDT

It may be easy to miss, but Café de Lisio is famous locally! Their “mile-long” menu of creative combinations for all their delicious coffee drinks may be overwhelming so just tell the barista what you’re after and they can suggest one for you. Everything can be done icy cold and kid friendly! Our favorite cold menu item is the Attitude Adjuster, and trust us, you will not be disappointed. The café and drive through are open from 5am-6pm Monday through Friday and 6am-5pm Saturday and Sunday for your convenience.

 

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