Deception Pass State Park - Hoypus Point

Hoypus Point sits on the quieter east side of Deception Pass State Park, across Cornet Bay from the bridge crowds. The trail network here runs through old-growth Douglas fir and western red cedar, mature alder groves, and thick sword fern understory. Named sections like Hemlock Hideaway and Fern Gully give a sense of the character.

The route starts at Cornet Bay Marina on a flat paved section (0.7 miles) before reaching a road closure and the proper trail. A short detour leads to the ruins of an old ferry landing on the shoreline. From there, the East Hoypus trail climbs gradually through old growth, with multiple named connector trails allowing hikers to customize loop distances from 3 to 6+ miles.

This trail works year-round and earns its keep on overcast winter days when much of the park feels empty. The forest canopy provides good rain shelter. Mud is persistent through the wet months, especially on the lower sections. Summer weekends bring boaters to the marina, but most stay near the water and leave the trails quiet.