The Tommy Thompson Parkway is a pleasant paved path that extends from the Anacortes Marina to a trestle that crosses the bay to March Point.  It follows the shoreline for about 2 miles and provides nice views of the bay and on clear days a good view of Mt. Baker and the North Cascades.  It is an excellent location for bird viewing and  meeting friendly people.

    There are several access points to the path.  We started at the parking lot at 21st and R Avenue.  There is on street parking on 34th street that is closer to the beach.  We enjoyed strolling past the boatyards and were impressed by the variety of yachts that were stored there.  It didn't take long to reach the shoreline and we were greeted by the aroma of a low tide.  The clouds parted and we were treated to a nice view of Mt. Baker.  Ripe blackberries can make the trip take longer.  There are interpretive signs along the way that describe the ecology and history of the area.  The path enters a wooded area and then continues on past  a RV park to a a trestle that crosses the bay.  We enjoyed watching eagles and herons searching for a meal and laughed as we watched gulls drop clamshells on the pathway to get a tasty treat. We saw a variety of boats on the bay ranging from small sailboats to supertankers.  We talked with friendly people and a small boy made Debi's day when he told her he really liked her hat.  It took us about 2 hours to complete the trip.  There is an accessible restroom in the parking lot on 21st. There are a lot of shops and restaurants to explore in downtown Anacortes.

Directions:  Take Highway 20 west from I-5 to Anacortes.  Turn right on R Ave.  go north to either 34th or 21st.

Length: 4 miles round trip

Surface: Paved

Grade: Level

Difficulty: Easy wheelchair assist.