I am always looking for ways to get my girls outside to get some fresh air, some exercise, and to soak up all the benefits nature has to offer. A not-too-long, kid-friendly hike is a perfect way to accomplish all of the above. Here are the top five hikes to do with kids on Bainbridge Island!
Blakely Harbor Park Trail
Blakely Harbor’s 1-mile trail is relatively flat. It winds around the harbor through forests and a meadow leading you to a private little beach in Blakely Harbor. Once at the beach, you can stop there and play and head back the way you came or take a bridge to the other side of the harbor where there are bunkers to explore and more trails. This is a very kid-friendly hike, appropriate for all ages!
Fort Ward Park Waterfront Trail
Fort Ward’s paved .89 mile waterfront trail along the beach provides you with so many options. You can stick to the paved trail, peel off onto the sweet little dirt trails along the beach that are littered with plum trees (such a treat in the summer), access the more rugged upper-trails, or even have a picnic on the beach.
Grand Forest West Main Trail
While there are many great hikes within the Grand Forest on Bainbridge Island. This is our hike of choice. The Grand Forest West Main Trail is a 1.1 mile loop that takes you over a wooden bridge (I don’t know about your kids, but my girls always love to run across a bridge). There are lots of fun fallen trees and stumps to play on and around near the bridge as well.
Battle Point Trail
The Battle Point Trail consists of 2 miles of flat, winding trail that loops around the interior of the park as well as 1.5 miles of equestrian trail that circles the park perimeter. While at the park there are many other activities to do including going for a bike ride, playing ball in one of the numerous courts and fields, playing on the new playground, picking blackberries in the summer, or seeing the ducks at the duck pond. From here you can also access the Fairy Dell Trail which is a quick .5 mile trail down to the beach.
Bloedel Reserve
Bloedel Reserve comprises 150 acres of natural woodlands, manicured gardens, and the former Bloedel estate home. It is a beautiful place to take a walk and soak in the unique blend of gardens all year round. There is a fee of $20 per adult to visit. It’s best to make a reservation ahead of time.
and a little bonus nature walk…
Halls Hill Lookout
Halls Hill Lookout is a beautiful meditative space overlooking Blakely Harbor on Bainbridge. It is a piece of land with a path that winds among beautiful native landscaping, a labyrinth, a swing overlooking the harbor, and many other fun touches. While it isn’t exactly a hike, it is a fun place to get a little exercise and let the kids explore in nature.
Looking for a place to grab lunch after your hike, check out my post on the restaurants on Bainbridge Island.
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