Deadman Bay to Lime Kiln Lighthouse Loop

FEATURED WALK

Length: 2 miles
Estimated Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Loop
Submitted by: Jonathan McVey

Green whale tail icon emerging from water
green binoculars icon on white background
Green bird silhouette on a white background.
Green book icon with a white letter 'H' on the cover.
Restroom icon with male and female symbols in green
Icon depicting a person throwing away a dog waste bag in a trash can.
Trail map showing Lime Kiln Point State Park and Deadman Bay Preserve with highlighted trails and landmarks along the coast and surrounding area.

This easy 2-mile walk offers so much of what we love about our island: madrona woods, mossy rocks, stunning views, history, a lighthouse—and of course, the chance to see whales from some of the most beautiful shoreline anywhere.

The route is a little steep and rocky in places, but there are plenty of alternative paths or shortcuts if it feels too challenging.

Forest trail beside a road with rocks and trees

1
Park at Deadman Bay

Park at the pull-outs by Deadman Bay. If it’s too busy, you can park at Lime Kiln State Park (a Discover Pass is required).

Wooded trail with informational sign and trees

2
Start the walk uphill away from Deadman Bay

Look for the trailhead across the road from Deadman Bay and begin walking uphill into the woods.

Moss-covered stone steps leading up a hill surrounded by rocks and trees in a forest.

3
Follow the single-track trail uphill

Cross open meadow and rocky outcrops as you wind uphill for about 0.1 miles. Keep an eye out for wildflowers and wildlife—we’ve seen foxes, quail, and eagles here.

Caution sign near forest trail with a white SUV and trees in the background.

4
Carefully Cross the Road

After about 0.1 miles, the trail crosses Westside Road. Cross carefully—vehicles often drive fast here.

Forest trail with moss, trees, and fallen branches

5
Walk through a madrona woodland

After crossing the road, the trail enters a lovely mixed woodland of ancient Douglas fir and striking madrona trees.

A large tree with a thick, curved, and arching branch over a dirt path in a forested area. The bark appears dark and textured, with patches of green moss. Surrounding the tree are other trees and a grassy undergrowth.

6
Mind your head!

Some branches hang low—watch your step and your head.

Ant mound in forest surrounded by grass and trees

7
Watch out for ants in the summer

You’ll spot some impressive anthills—likely Western Thatch ants. Continue on the trail, ignoring two side trails on your left that shortcut down to the State Park.

Sign for Coghlan's Trail in a wooded area
Rocky cliff with trees overlooking a vast body of water under a blue sky.

8
Quarry overlook

At about 0.8 miles, keep left and look for Coghlan’s Trail, which takes you down to the Quarry overlook. The views across Haro Strait to Vancouver Island are stunning—especially at sunset.

Stone structure near a coastal forest with a view of the ocean and picnic tables.

9
Descend to the shoreline

From the quarry, follow the steep, rocky trail and keep right as you make your way down to the shoreline. There’s a great picnic spot down a flight of steep steps, under the historic lime kiln and by the water.

Lighthouse on rocky coastline with tree in foreground

10
Walk along the shoreline to the lighthouse

Follow the path from the lime kiln along the shoreline, with beautiful overlooks as you head toward the lighthouse.

Coastal trail with a sign for Dead Man Bay, rocky cliffs, green hills, and blue sky.

11
Return via the shoreline

From the lighthouse, follow signs back toward Deadman Bay. The trail is a little steep and rocky in places, but worth it for the views—keep a lookout for whales!

Rocky beach with clear water and coastal cliffs under a sunny sky.
Accessible outdoor restroom unit amid trees and grass in a natural setting.

12
Arrive back at Deadman Bay

Enjoy this lovely cove before heading up the grassy hill back to the trailhead. Restrooms are available here, as well as at the State Park parking lot.