Deception Pass

George Vancouver named the pass in 1792 after discovering that what he had taken for a peninsula was an island - he felt deceived. The strait is narrow and deep, and the tidal exchange between Skagit Bay and the Strait of Juan de Fuca forces water through at speeds reaching around eight knots, close to fifteen kilometres an hour, producing standing waves, whirlpools and overfalls that are visible from the bridge and that kayakers treat with real respect. The bridge, opened on July 31, 1935, runs 297 metres across the pass by way of tiny Pass Island, and the Civilian Conservation Corps built roads, trails and buildings in the park in the same decade. It is one of the most visited state parks in Washington, with over two million visitors a year. Currents reverse with the tide and the timing is published.

What's there

• Tidal current to about eight knots - with whirlpools and standing waves.
• A 1935 bridge - 297 metres long by way of Pass Island.
• Vancouver's naming - after mistaking the island for a peninsula.
• One of Washington's busiest state parks - with beaches and forest trails.

When to go

April to October; time it to a large tidal exchange for the current. Half a day.

Before you go

Bridge parking is very limited and the walkway is narrow with traffic beside it. The park is the state's busiest and fills at weekends. Water is cold and currents are lethal to swimmers. A Discover Pass is required.

Nearby

Whidbey Island runs south; Anacortes and the San Juans are north.

Key facts