San Juan County Conservation Land Bank
Fisherman Bay Preserve: The Spit
Lopez Island
Activities
Features
The 29-acre Spit Preserve is named for the prominent sand spit that defines the entrance to Fisherman Bay. This rich and varied property protects rare coastal dunes and wetlands, a grassy headland, approximately 1 mile of shoreline and an exquisite sandy spit marking the entrance to Fisherman Bay. The scenic setting is visible from numerous locations and travel ways, including Lopez Village, San Juan Channel and Fisherman Bay. The public has enjoyed traditional access to the property for many years and community residents value this property for its recreational opportunities and unique landscape. The property contains important ecological and cultural resources. This Preserve was purchased in 2002, in part with funds from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office.
29
ACRES PRESERVED
Trail Description
Trails lead through an old orchard and former homestead site, then down to the sand spit. From the sandy spit, the land rises to open uplands backed by forest. Habitats range from salt marsh and dunes in low-lying areas to a grassy field with an old orchard and pond, to a dense cedar forest. Visitors are asked to take extra care to remain on designated trails on the spit. The plants of this special habitat are vulnerable to trampling, while nesting and foraging birds are disrupted by off-trail people and dogs.
Preserve Map
When you visit
• Stay on designated trails.
• Day use only, no camping.
• No fires.
• Leash your dog and pack out waste.
• Follow leave no trace principles. Take nothing and leave nothing.
Driving Directions
From the Lopez ferry landing:
Take Ferry Road heading south. At 2.2 miles, the road name changes to Fisherman Bay Road. Continue past Lopez Village and along Fisherman Bay, turning right onto Bayshore Road at 6.1 miles. Turn left onto Peninsula Road at 7.55 miles. Continue straight at the county road end sign at 8.15 miles, and turn right into the preserve at 8.3 miles. The road ends at the parking area, 8.45 miles from start.
Click the links below to see what flora and fauna others are observing at this Preserve.
