It’s no secret that I love hiking and getting outdoors as much as possible.
I’m certainly not a pro hiker, nor am I going to be scaling Mt Rainier or Mt Everest in the near future without some serious training. Nonetheless, spending time in the sunshine, getting back to nature and breathing in some fresh, cool air is one of life’s true pleasures.
Cranberry Lake is a beautiful azure lake set within a lush wooded forest on Fidalgo Island. It’s part of a 2,800-acre preserve within the city limits of Anacortes, and plays host to more than twenty miles of interconnecting recreational trails for hikers, mountain biking and horse riding.
Better yet, it’s just moments from my house. There’s an access trail about 100m walk from my front door.
As such, I’ve spent quite a few afternoons and early mornings wandering the various trails. It’s a peaceful and picturesque experience that always leaves me feeling refreshed and ready to tackle anything.
My favourite Cranberry Lake route is the Lake Loop Trail, which leads me on an easy walk around the lake’s edge. With water views, mossy fallen trees, a few rock scrambles and plenty of native birds and squirrels to be spotted, it’s hard to believe that this is so close to town.
While I’m yet to tackle the trail on my bike (one for the to do list!), it seems to be a popular option for local mountain bikers – I’ve passed many on my walks.
Here are a few photos from the one time I have remembered to bring my camera along for the journey.
What are your favourite local trails? Want to experience Cranberry Lake for yourself? Get the latest info here first.
Read more from Live Recklessly: Sunsets from Washington Park, Anacortes, Best sights and hikes in Deception Pass State Park, A weekend getaway to San Juan Island.