Camping Along the Trail
maximizing space by placing tents close together and being for every
water trail user who arrives for the night. This means maximizing
space by placing tents close together and being considerate of other
who may arrive after you. To protect extremely popular sites from
overuse, maximum capacities may be posted at some sites. If a
designated water trail site is full, check the registration point for
information on alternative sites. Check ahead with the parks along
your route regarding site limitations and availability.
Leave No Trace
Cascadia Marine Trail sites are exposed to the elements of the sea
and recreational impacts. To preserve and maintain these sensitive
areas, travelers should follow these “Leave No Trace” principles:
Plan ahead and prepare: Trip planning and preparation help visitors
arrive with the right information and gear to enjoy their visit.
Unprepared visitors who are wet and cold are more likely to abandon
Leave No Trace principles for safety’s sake.
Travel and camp on durable surfaces: Walking and camping on
durable surfaces help reduce soil erosion and protect wildlife and
plants. Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites,
rock, gravel and dry grasses.
Dispose of waste properly: If you pack it in, pack it out.
Leave what you find: A misplaced footstep or inconsiderate action
can destroy a cultural site or a rare wildflower. Help protect these
fragile and irreplaceable resources.
Minimize campfire impact: use a stove or lantern, keep fires small,
use only designated fire rings, and never leave a fire unattended.
Respect wildlife: Avoid sensate habitats, observe wildlife from a
distance, and store food and trash securely.
Be considerate of other visitors: Keep the noise level down, travel in
small groups, and avoid using bright lights, radios or other intrusive
devices.
Safety Tips
The Cascadia Marine Trail is on a large inland sea, any part of which
may quickly become hazardous or even lethal due to bad weather,
currents, cold water or marine traffic. It is important all water trail
users match their skills, knowledge and judgment to potential
hazards. If conditions aren’t comfortable for you, wait it out, or plan
your trip for another time or place.
The area around the San Juan Islands is especially subject to fast
tidal flows, which may create hazardous conditions even in calm
weather. Reef and fast currents north of Orcas Island create special
hazards on crossings out to Sucia, Matia and Patos Islands.
Deception Pass at the north end of Whidbey Island has extremely
hazardous tide rips, boils, whirlpools and turbulence because of tidal
flows up to 8.5 knots. Here are ways to make your journey a safe one:
Carry rescue and safety equipment and be proficient in group and
self-rescue techniques. Always wear your life jacket.
Always pack an extra set of warm clothes, hat and socks and extra
food in a waterproof bag.
Obtain advance information about your intended route, including
marine tide and current charts. Discuss your plans with people who
know the area.
Puget Sound water is cold year round, averaging in the lower 50
degree range, and tides can run from 10 to 15 feet twice a day.
Boaters must plan carefully, carry tide tables and know the dangers of
hypothermia.
Listen to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or
Environment Canada weather on VHF radio. Pay attention when the
wind opposed the current and causes steep or breaking waves.
Travel as a close-knit group. Maintain voice contact with others, and
do not outpace the slowest group members. Wait if necessary, and
don’t move away from the group, especially on crossings. Assist
others in difficult conditions.
File a float plan with a family member or friend before leaving home.
Discuss each day’s travel plans before starting and decide if it’s
necessary to change them. Then, inform all party members. Agree on
an emergency meeting place in case the party separates.
For a free “Washington Boater’s Guide,” call the State Parks Boating
Programs office at (360) 586-6590 or
the Telephone Device for the Deaf at (360) 664-3133.
Supporting the Trail
Washington Water Trails Association supports the Cascadia Marine
Trail through education, on-site stewardship and other programs.
Members receive a trail handbook and newsletter. For more
information or to help with the Trail, contact:
Washington Water Trails Association
4649 Sunnyside Avenue North, Room 307
Seattle WA 98103-6956
(206) 545-9161 wwta@wwta.org
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