Celebrate Spring — a Forest Hike at South Whidbey State Park

— Created March 20, 2026 by Samantha Goodman

Celebrate Spring — a Forest Hike at South Whidbey State Park

Whidbey Audubon Society is hosting a field trip from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 19 to celebrate spring. It will focus on forest birds such as chickadees, thrushes, wrens, and looking for spring flora. Come celebrate the birthday of Washington State Parks and the start of spring with a hike through the forest at South Whidbey State Park.

The walk includes part of the old campground loop to see some of the large trees, then heads uphill to Fern Gully and beyond, looking and listening for the many passerines that make their home in the forest. Participants will also look for signs of spring among the plants beginning to wake from winter dormancy. The route will be up to two miles on dirt trails with tree roots, some step areas, wooden planks through wetland sections, and springtime mud in places.

A small number of hiking poles will be available to borrow for the hike. Binoculars and field guides will also be provided for use during the trip. This is a state park free day, so no Discover Pass is required.

The hike is limited to 10 people, who must register on the Whidbey Audubon website: whidbeyaudubonsociety.org/events-list/celebrate-spring-forest-hike-at-south-whidbey-state-park. A waiting list will be available for those who register after the limit is reached; they will be contacted if a spot opens.

For questions or to cancel a reservation, contact trip leader Madrone Ruggerio at madrone@whidbeyaudubonsociety.org.