Hikes, bikes, gardens, beaches and buys—the island has some wonderful activities
Hikes
Would you enjoy the ultimate woodland walk among some of the most pristine forest on the island? Out our driveway and down the next drive (which is also an easement road) you’ll find the trailhead to a little-known hiking trail that will take you over bridges and hills to the Grand Forest. This is spectacular place, comprised of two 250-acre private reserves. You can wander through woodland glens and over streams to commune with deer and many species of birds creating the perfect soundtrack for your adventure.
Bikes
Bainbridge Island has some truly challenging biking roads. The island is extremely friendly to all cyclists with our famous road signs SHARE THE ROAD. In addition, Bainbridge is home to the renowned Chilly Hilly hosted every February. At that time of year, the weather is generally nippy, and with 2,675 feet of hill climbing, the name says it all. The 33-mile route has been kicking off the cycling season in the Northwest for the past 36 years.
If you don’t bring your own bikes, you may borrow Ashton Woods bikes (far left) and enjoy a ride around the quiet back roads up to Battle Point Park.
Battle Point Park
Or drive to the park, enjoy a casual stroll, bring a book and a picnic lunch. You’ll find a jogging trail, tennis courts and a pond for practicing your fly casting in this beautifully landscaped 65-acre park.
Beaches
There are some tremendously beautiful beaches on the island. Some are public and easy to find, some are more secluded, and we’ll be happy to give you directions.
Gardens
Bainbridge Island is synonymous with gardens. The island hosts an annual Bainbridge In Bloom every July featuring a number of exceptional private gardens opened to the public for viewing.
Just down the road from us you can wander through Bainbridge Gardens Nursery, the island’s premier destination for gardeners. Complete with their own New Rose Café, which is perfect for a latte or light snack before you hit the gardens.
The island is also home to the world renowned Bloedel Reserve (above). A former estate, this 150-acre property showcases a series of gardens featuring northwest plants. About 60 acres are original growth forest. The remaining land features lovingly altered landscapes, including various gardens, ponds and meadows. This is an amazing garden walk—whatever the weather or season. The reserve requires reservations, so please plan well ahead if you want to visit the reserve while on the island, especially during the summer.
Buys
What would a cute town be without a charming downtown shopping district? Downtown Winslow (our only town and the place where the ferry from Seattle docks) has some wonderfully unique shops and boutiques. From the silly to the sensational, you can find it here.
http://www.bainbridgedowntown.org/index.php