May 2016 Update: Learn about the new Tursi Trail on the property page.

A trail and wildlife corridor project long in the works to connect Deception Pass State Park to the Anacortes Community Forestlands is coming to fruition. The new Tursi Trail, named after Anacortes resident John Tursi, will extend the park's Pass Lake Trail to Campbell Lake Road at the southern reach of the Forest Lands.

Skagit Land Trust and Skagit County Parks and Recreation have worked with local landowners for almost five years to acquire voluntary trail easements and key land connections for this trail. Due to the generosity and vision of these landowners, the real estate for the trail is now secured and the next stage will involve the trail construction with the assistance of professional trail builders beginning this winter. Volunteer opportunities will be available to the community to help with these efforts. Skagit County and Deception Pass State Park will manage their respective parts of the trail and Skagit County Parks and Recreation will manage the new northern trailhead. Read the recent Anacortes American article for more information about this project or watch the Skagit County Commissioners presentation honoring John Tursi.