From Farm to Footpath: A Tranquil Whidbey Island Walk

by Laura Hilton

Journey all the way south to experience a slice of Whidbey that showcases the incredible community spirit of this island. Located where Cultus Bay Road and Possession Road meet, the Hammons Family Farm Preserve is a gift to the public. Local landowner Al Hammons wanted people to have a place where they could “rest their souls awhile” and enjoy the area's abundant natural beauty as he had done. Such a donation would be an amazing gift no matter what, but in visiting this property, you understand just how generous the gesture is.

The Wide-Open Spaces of the Hammons Family Farm Preserve

Once a picturesque coastal farm, this 9.5-acre preserve boasts sweeping, unobstructed views of Cultus Bay. There is a gentle ¼ mile path looping through the orchard, field, and forest, with a small bridge to take you across the stream and wetlands. Only a handful of historic farming outbuildings remain, and a viewing bench has been installed that will inspire you to say a quiet thank you to Mr. Hammons.

Trail Map

"All islanders know these lands are priceless, essential, invaluable."

All islanders know these lands are priceless, essential, and invaluable. Yet we also know that when price tags are being assigned, the coastal parts get the most zeros tacked on.

This property could fetch a lot of clams, but instead, it will be accessible to all and remain a thriving habitat for local wildlife. This generous gift is only possible, however, because the land has been under the careful stewardship of the Whidbey Camano Land Trust.

We are endlessly fortunate to have this organization looking after our environment and planning for tomorrow.

Two-Minute Trailer of Hammons Preserve

When the Hammons' land was first protected in 2006 for safe public use, a few old structures, including a whole house, needed to come down. Opportunities like this don’t go unmissed by our excellent fire department, and controlled burns were used as a training opportunity for volunteer firefighters.

Locals gathered to watch the proceedings, and a salvage store from Bellingham deconstructed other buildings on the site. Whidbey Camano Land Trust secured the funding needed to maintain the property with an eye to the future. This preserve is adjacent to a 40-acre forest and wildlife habitat that will one day be open to the public.

See More Trails to Explore

See What You're Missing

An Easy Path Through the Grass

Today the land is a peaceful place to walk, listen to birdsong, or catch a sunset. If you’ve never explored the island this far south, it’s also a great stop on the way to Possession Point State Park.

Be sure to visit a local gem nearby, Bailey’s Corner Store, whether you need a burger, beer, or bait. You’ll also be in the neighborhood of Cultus Bay Distillery, so call ahead for a tour or tasting as a treat after your walk!

About the Author: Laura Hilton grew up on Whidbey Island and has since worked and traveled around the world, but this special place keeps calling her back.